Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

Next week is a week of monumental status at 1Xtra. Not only will I be returning home to the airwaves after the 5 week hiatus I took while filming the forthcoming Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Three sitcom I keep telling you about (Trexx and Flipside - ack like ya know!) but also after nearly 6 years of ruling the nation as the UK's only national black music radio station, we are hitting you with the extravaganza that is 1Xtra Live.

In case you have been living under a rock, Saturday 22nd March sees us take over the Ricoh Arena in Coventry and put on what's being called the "best black music line up of 2008". With Akon, Chris Brown, Kelly Rowland, Lupe Fiasco, Jay Sean, Tami Chynn, Estelle, Craig David, Movado and Taio Cruz all on the bill, you know that it's major league. If you haven't managed to get yourself some tickets (and don't buy any fake ones you see online...) make sure you check it out on air, on your TV and online on 22nd March. I'm going to be co-hosting the live show from 10pm with Westwood on 1Xtra and Radio 1 and doing a little hosting on the stage. I.LOVE.MY.JOB!!!

I was thinking about 1Xtra Live and for me, it's something very groundbreaking. If you're a rock or indie or dance fan, you're more than catered for in the UK with major events. From our sister station Radio 1's Big Weekend to Glastonbury and beyond, events that feature a load of your favourite artists performing together under one roof then you're really spoilt for choice. Fans of black music usually have to make do with club nights (if they're not shut down because of the actions of a mindless minority) or one off, one artist tours. An event like this starts to redress the balance - and let's be honest, only 1Xtra can do it! Long Live 1Xtra Live!