ABSTRACT
I want to begin with the assertion that any comprehension of the wonderful and frightening world of The Fall would be incomplete without recognition of the relationship of this band with the much-mourned BBC broadcaster John Peel. The nature of this relationship is, I think, important for an understanding of both parties situated within the practices and meanings of a wider popular music culture. When seen from a British perspective, such is Peel’s continued reputation and standing in the history of radio and popular music culture, that one forgets that he needs some introduction for international readers. Thus, in unpacking my assertion, I’ll outline Peel’s importance as well as some of the issues around thinking about radio and music, exploring some of the homologies in the practices of band and DJ and the reciprocal manner in which the status and meanings of both have been cemented. Finally, I will offer some thoughts about this association in the light of the death of Peel in 2004.
