Traces of the Roger Scott vocal influence are to be found in so many of the presenters on the most successful of the first generation of UK commercial radio stations. Slightly American, almost self-compressed, a marginally extended s, and utterly slick.
Roger, influenced by DJs in American markets, where commercial radio was so much more mature, lent his own vocal style and slickness to those who followed in Britain's nascent pop radio industry. Roger began at WPTR in New York in 1966. Like John Peel, his accent alone elevated him to 'friend of the Beatles'. During a spell in Montreal at 1470 CFOX, he witnessed the Lennon/ Ono 'bed-in' for peace.
On returning to the UK, Roger aimed for the new Capital Radio, with time at the influential United Biscuits Network (UBN) proving an excellent grounding, alongside a brief detour at a young BBC Radio One as 'Bob Baker'. On the new Capital Radio in London, his drive-time shows became hugely popular. Roger left Capital in June 1988, returning to Radio One. He died in 1989 at just 46.
Enjoy this insightful documentary, introduced by Alan Freeman and produced by Johnny Beerling, in which he tells of all the above, his happy days and his frustrations. From his name changes to storming out over Cat Stevens. The programme was broadcast on 4th November 1989, five days after his death. (Part One of Two, thanks to Ian Whitten for this)