Keynote: Steve Lamacq

Steve Lamacq sometimes known by his nicknames Lammo (given to him by John Peel) or "The Cat" (due to his ability as a goalkeeper), is an English disc jockey, currently working with the BBC radio stations Radio 1, BBC 6 Music

Despite being a man best known for his discovery and championing of new music, Steve Lamacq started as a sports journalist on the Harlow Gazette. However, a slightly unhealthy obsession with the charts and music press drew him into the world of music.

Steve joined the NME and at one point saw more than 200 gigs in one year - resulting in tonsillitis and glandular fever, but being a trooper he was back at a (local) gig four days after leaving hospital.

At the age of 12, Steve decided he wanted to work at BBC Radio 1 and years later he got his chance following a letter to the station offering help with regards to the masses of new bands that weren't being covered at the time.

An apprenticeship reviewing the music press and occasionally sitting in followed, but it was his partnership with Jo Whiley on The Evening Session that really set a rocket under his radio career.

A remarkable record of picking the next big thing has continued as part of producing one of the most compelling radio music shows in the UK and a great read in his book Going Deaf For A Living. Now, 6 Music brings you the insight and musical choices of Lamacq!

CPWM Selection Panel