BBC Asian Network has announced that celebrated DJ and broadcaster Bobby Friction will host a new weekly specialist music show, set to premiere in April 2025. The new program will showcase unique soundtracks, South Asian beats, and exclusive music from around the globe, delivering a fresh take on specialist music and entertainment for UK audiences.
Bobby will transition from his current weekday slot to lead the new weekly show, highlighting his continued influence on the network after nearly two decades of championing British Asian music. Since joining the network 19 years ago, Bobby has been instrumental in introducing listeners to diverse South Asian sounds through shows like the ‘Album Chart Show’, the ‘Friction’ show, Drivetime, and his current Monday-to-Wednesday program.
Bobby’s impact on the British Asian music scene extends far beyond the BBC Asian Network. Known for representing the British Asian sound globally, he has headlined stages from New Year’s Eve parties for 10,000 fans in Bangalore to festivals like WOMAD in the UK and Singapore, and the World Music Festival in Chicago.
As a regular on the European festival circuit, he’s also performed at nine different Glastonbury Festivals and Bestival for nearly a decade. His international gigs, including shows at Burning Man in Nevada and clubs in San Francisco and LA, have cemented his reputation as a genre-blending musician with a global fanbase.
Beyond his festival performances, Bobby has made a mark as a recording artist. His British Asian Urban compilation album, Friction, sold over a quarter of a million copies across the subcontinent and held the No. 1 spot in the charts for 14 weeks. The success continued with Friction 2 and Friction Re-Loaded, helping solidify British Asian sounds in India and beyond. Known as a passionate advocate for Desi music, Bobby is respected worldwide for his dedication to British Asian music and Desi beats, as well as his work as a gifted documentary maker.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new venture, Bobby Friction said, “I’m really looking forward to the next phase of my work with Asian Network. It’s been nearly 20 years, and I still feel as fresh and creative as on my first day. Expect a deep dive into South Asian music from across the planet with this new show.”
Additionally, the BBC Asian Network will introduce three new weekday programs (18:00-20:00, Monday to Wednesday), fronted by its roster of talented presenters. Full details for these upcoming shows will be announced in early 2025.
Ahmed Hussain, Head of BBC Asian Network, added, “Bobby Friction is a huge part of the Asian Network family and will continue to be a pivotal part of the network. I look forward to hearing the energy and vibes Bobby brings to his new music show in 2025!”
