Absolute Radio 40s commemorates the 75th anniversary of VE Day
The milestone anniversary was celebrated this year
Absolute Radio launched a very special pop-up radio station to celebrate VE Day on Friday 8th May 2020 with thanks to the Audio Content Fund.
As the current Coronavirus crisis impacted the planned nationwide celebrations, Absolute Radio 40s played music from across the decade, making it the UK’s biggest virtual self-isolation street party.
Fans of the station heard the biggest songs of the 40s from the likes of Dame Vera Lynn, Billie Holliday, The Andrews Sisters, Judy Garland, Glenn Miller, Bing Crosby, Doris Day, Gracie Fields, Benny Goodman, and Tommy Dorsey. We also heard veterans tell their stories, as well as the charities and organisations which helped those who were impacted.
Who hosted Absolute Radio 40s?
Absolute Radio 40s was hosted by Dave Berry, Jason Manford, Leona Graham and Claire Sturgess, plus some very special guests, messages and surprise performances. From 6am, the station also featured special news bulletins which charted events as they unfolded on 8th May 1945.
For 24 hours, Absolute Radio 40s was broadcast on 1215AM across the UK, on DAB+ in London and online at absoluteradio.co.uk. We hope you enjoyed this huge virtual celebration of British spirit and in tribute of those people who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
How can I listen back to Absolute Radio 40s?
Our special celebration of VE Day, Absolute Radio 40s, may have been a one day only event...but we're letting you in on a secret! Thankfully, you can listen back to our special station for VE Day, as Absolute Radio 40s is now available to listen in four parts on the Absolute Radio App. But be quick, because it's available for 30 days only!
Part 1: Absolute Radio 40s with Dave Berry
Part 2: Absolute Radio 40s with Claire Sturgess
Part 3: Absolute Radio 40s with Jason Manford
Part 4: Absolute Radio 40s with Leona Graham
VE Day memories
We wanted to hear stories of your loved ones and their memories from that momentous day 75 years ago - and you did not disappoint! Absolute Radio listeners got in touch with their VE Day memories, which you can enjoy right here.