Could anybody replace Pete Tong?
As the title suggests, the end of an era maybe coming. It may not be this year, next year, or even in a few years, but it has to happen sometime: Pete Tong will leave the industry. The guy is 48 this year, and is old enough to be a father to most of us. The party life, and crazy hours must be taking a toll on him.
Tong has been a huge influence for Britain, and those of us who listened to the BBC to educate ourselves about dance music. He has been doing both the Essential Selection and Essential Mix since 1993, which alone have granted him legendary status. His Friday night show is a huge staple for those looking for some good tunes before they head out for the night: 'The official start to the weekend'.
Along with this show, he seems to talk to and promote just about anybody in the dance world. He has the widest variety of DJ, producers, and artists on his show as either call-ins, or guests to spin a short set. He is our ambassador to dance music, and it shows.
Still a huge staple in Ibiza, and obviously WMC, he is the voice that everybody recognizes, and gets behind.
So the question is, could anybody ever replace him, as the one, most recognizable voice in dance? My only nomination for the spot would be Carl Cox, because he talks and associates himself with the same level of excitement and experience. But even Carl is 46 this year; our hero's are getting old.
Could he be replaced? Does he need to be replaced? Has dance music pushed past the need for an ambassador?
Last edited by Orko on Apr-22-2008 at 15:23
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