Radio 2 - do the presenters ever shut up?

[janeandmarysmum]

I usually listen to radio 4 but have been recommended radio 2 - friends say that the music played is stuff I would like (I'm an oldster). But I've tuned in a few times this week and every time, it's been the presenters talking about stuff I've not a clue about. Have I been unlucky? Is there another station that plays 80s rock (for instance) that doesn't have this vacuous chat and laughter?

Well radio presenters are generally paid to chat and laugh...

Try Virgin 80s or just stream 80s rock if that's your thing.

With radio presenters it really depends whether you like their personality and presenting style. I can't stand Zoe Ball or Owain Wyn Evans but quite like Sara Cox and Vernon Kaye. None are as good as Ken Bruce or Wogan were but they are gone and Radio 2 moves on.

Others will have a different opinion and that's fine. No presenter will appeal to everyone.

I haven't listened to the radio for years, the constant vacuous inane bullshit enrages me. Spotify all the way!

I use the BBC Sounds app. I download shows and then use the 20 second skip button to get to the actual songs. They come up on the screen so easy to see if it is one you'd like.

Heart 80s and Smooth 80s don't have much chatting but you would need the Global Player app or a DAB radio/smart speaker.

Virgin Anthems has good music and not too much chat

I like 6 music, but I'm not sure it'd hit your 80s requirement. Thy do play 80s, and from time to time have themed days, but it's a real mix of music and I'd say, slightly more thoughtful presenting.

Another vote for r6 music. I'm normally an r4 listener too. 90's teen though, like many 6 music listeners. They play a real mix of music from modern to much older. Great, really
Knowledgeable presenters. Maybe an oldies station might concentrate on 80's more though.

Thanks for all the suggestions.

Jeremy Vine!

Strongly recommend Sound of the 70s. Johnnie Walker knows what he's talking about and doesn't talk too much between music. We have to make the most of him while he's here. He sounds very frail these days, sadly.

Also Pick of the Pops - I listen via Sounds and only when it's a decent year.

I like Greatest Hits Radio where most of the decent R2 presents have gone. Simon Mayo's show is great. Plays music I know too (I'm in my 50s)

Can you recommend a radio station that plays 80s rock?

Sounds of the 70s.

Never change, Mumsnet.

If you think Radio 2 is bad, you should try BBC Three Counties radio. Endless yackety yack and chit-chatting drivel that goes on and on and on and on.

Just play some music ffs.

Sunday morning is brilliant with Michael Ball then Paddy McGuiness.
Try Boomers radio?

Thread title: Radio 2 - do the presenters ever shut up?

I recommended one who does. It may surprise you to learn that the 1970s was the decade before the 1980s so people who like music from one decade often like the other as well.

I love Sara Cox. She sounds like a genuine right laugh and lovely person. Scott Mills - oh my he's dull. Sounds dull, and appears to be dull.

Vernon is ok but gosh I wish he'd shut up about the trucking and dial back the name dropping!

I don't mind a bit of 70s music.