Clara Amfo to step down from Radio 1 Future Sounds show

Clara Amfo, is stepping down from presenting BBC Radio 1’s Future Sound in order to focus on major specials for the station, and a new BBC Sounds show.

Having hosted the show since 2021, Clara says: “I’m so proud of the work I’ve been able to do on every show, whether it’s been from the 8th floor, a city in the UK or a pop star’s house across the pond!

“I’m grateful to have had the ears of the listeners who have consistently shown up for me. I’m enamoured by everyone I’ve had the privilege of working alongside for each and every broadcast. I’m energised and excited for my next chapter as part of the network and beyond!”

Jack Saunders will be taking over the new music show from 15 April next year. He currently presents Radio 1’s Future Artists and has been a part of the BBC’s coverage of Glastonbury, Download Festival, Reading & Leeds, Big Weekend and is the host of The Official Chart on the station.

On taking over the Future Sounds show, Jack says: “All I’ve ever wanted to do is host this show on Radio 1 and all my dreams have become a reality. I can’t wait to champion new music and be the voice for a new generation of artists.”

These are a part of other schedule changes at Radio 1 that see Sian Eleri, who currently presents The Chillest Show and The Power Down Playlist, taking over from Jack, she says: “I’m excited to build on what is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding parts of the job – finding and championing the best new artists in the world for listeners to enjoy.”

Early Breakfast show presenter, Arielle Free is to host a new dance show on Thursday nights starting in April 2024.

Arielle says: “Beyond overjoyed to bring a whole new dance show to Thursday nights on Radio 1. I can’t wait to dive into the most exciting dance and electronic music releases and bring what I do in the club to the airwaves.

“To be launching this show as I hit my six-year anniversary as part of the Radio 1 family feels particularly special and as an official music obsessive, I can’t wait to guide the listeners through two hours of high energy musical goodness which will be full of heaters and certified dance floor fillers.”

Alyx Holcombe, who currently presents the BBC Introducing Rock show will be taking over Radio 1’s Indie Show every Sunday starting from 7 January, he says: “I’m absolutely buzzing to be the new face of indie and alternative on Radio 1 – the show has been so fun to cover over the summer and I can’t believe I’m going to get to do it every week!”

Aled Haydn-Jones, Head of BBC Radio 1 says: “Jack was born to host this show – I am so excited to hear what he delivers for Radio 1’s music loving audience. I am delighted that Sian, Alyx and Arielle also gain new shows – they join a great line-up of specialist presenters on Radio 1 who will put a strong spotlight on new UK music artists, bands and DJs.

“I’d like to thank Clara for everything she has done for Future Sounds and I’m delighted that she will be staying with Radio 1 and BBC Music to continue to bring some amazing artist highlights over the next year and beyond.”