A MASTERCLASS
IN RADIO

In this special episode recorded live from International Music Summit (IMS) in Ibiza, we sit down with one of the UK’s most influential voices in dance music—Danny Howard, an infamous BBC Radio 1 presenter, artist, and label owner. With over a decade of experience, Danny has played a defining role in curating dance music for the masses, spotlighting both global icons and breaking through underground talent with equal passion.

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From a serendipitous entry into a DJ competition to becoming a household name, Danny’s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and purpose. Whether he’s remixing classic tracks, running his label Nothing Else Matters, or spotlighting the next big artist, Danny brings unwavering energy to every part of his mission.

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A JOURNEY THROUGH THE AIRWAVES

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Danny recounts his earliest memories of listening to Pete Tong and Annie Mac - rituals that sparked his love for radio and dance music. Those moments led to DJ gigs in his university’s student union and eventually to playing global festivals like EDC Vegas alongside icons like Jamie Jones and Green Velvet. He shares candid stories about his first BBC Radio 1 show, how his approach to programming has evolved, and behind-the-scenes rituals, including his legendary ‘Moment of Calm’. 

 

LESSONS IN RADIO AND RESILIENCE

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Breaking into radio is no easy feat, and Danny Howard's journey is a masterclass in staying the course with persistence, humility, and strategic thinking. In this episode, Danny opens up about the hustle behind the headlines—how playing birthday parties, self-promoting club nights, and seizing every possible opportunity helped him build the momentum needed to stand out in a fiercely competitive industry.

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He shares the importance of consistency, showing up week after week with the same level of energy and commitment, regardless of the audience size or the platform. Preparation, he reveals, is everything—even now, each show takes a full week to craft, curate, and fine-tune. This relentless dedication has earned him not just credibility within the BBC, but also deep respect from the artists and audiences he champions.

 

Danny also touches on the importance of authenticity, staying true to his voice while evolving with the scene. He reflects on learning to trust his instincts, develop his identity as a broadcaster, and push through moments of self-doubt—reminding listeners that resilience is built not just in big breaks, but in small, everyday decisions to keep going.

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For aspiring radio presenters, DJs, and music industry hopefuls, Danny offers actionable insights into what it takes to not only enter the field—but to build a sustainable and meaningful career in it.​

 

WE ALSO UNCOVER:

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• How Danny built his on-air identity
  ● The behind-the-scenes grind that goes into every BBC show
  ● Danny’s biggest “radio fail” and what he learned from it
  ● His thoughts on the future of radio in a fast-changing industry

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This episode was recorded in collaboration with Point Blank Music School at IMS - a global leader in music education with campuses in London, LA, Ibiza, and online.

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🎧 Tune into the full episode on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Mission Makers for more conversations with the visionaries shaping music and culture.