BBC launches three new digital music stations on DAB+

The BBC has unveiled its first DAB+ music stations, introducing Radio 1 Dance, Radio 1 Anthems and Radio 3 Unwind to listeners across the UK.

After launching as streams on BBC Sounds last year, these stations mark the first music extensions added since 2002.

Radio 1 Dance and Radio 1 Anthems are aimed at younger listeners, especially those aged fifteen to twenty-four, with a mix of chart-topping hits, genre-led shows and rising presenting talent.

Radio 3 Unwind targets classical music fans aged thirty-five to fifty-four and plays soothing compositions with wellbeing-focused content designed to help listeners relax and unwind.

Aled Haydn-Jones, Head of Radio 1, said: “R1 Dance and R1 Anthems provide a strong and confident offer for younger listeners – delivering more choice and music to match every mood. Both stations bring together the very best expert DJs, rising presenting talent, exciting events and the best of British music for our audiences to discover.”

Launch week for Radio 1 Dance kicks off on 15 September with sets from world-famous DJs including Carl Cox, Eric Prydz and Disclosure. The station will feature nightly Dance Party Warm Up segments from Danny Howard and special highlights such as the Radio 1 Ibiza Prom.

Radio 1 Anthems will bring hits from the 2000s and 2010s to every mood, including Workout Anthems and Chillout Anthems, with a special announcement for fans on 16 September during Radio 1 Breakfast with Greg James.

Radio 3 Unwind pairs classical music with mindfulness in shows including Classical Unwind with Dr Sian Williams, Classical Wind Down with Niall Breslin and Ultimate Calm.

Evening programming includes The Sleeping Forecast, with calming sounds with the iconic Radio 4 Shipping Forecast, and Cinematic Soundtracks with Edith Bowman.

Sam Jackson, Radio 3 Controller, said: “Radio 3 Unwind has already been positively received as a stream on BBC Sounds and I’m really pleased to now bring it to a wider audience on DAB+. The station offers a wide-ranging selection of calming classical music—perfect for listeners seeking an escape from the demands of daily life.”