October 27th, 2004 by 
Pete
Following the announcement of the death of John Peel, tributes have started flooding in from all parts of the world with Thom York, Damon Albarn, Noel Gallagher and James Dean Bradfield all paying their respects to a unique, indescribably influential and much loved figure in radio history.
As previously reported, John Peel tragically passed away on (October 26) after suffering from a heart attack - aged 65 - while on holiday in Cuzco, Peru. Since then, numerous musicians and music fans alike have been contacting Xfm to pay tribute to a DJ who occupied a unique place in people’s memories and hearts.
“It was because of him I got to hear some of the most obscure but influential music I ever heard. He was a lifeline to hearing music I would never have been aware of otherwise. When you lived in the provinces, he gave you a window into a world you were not part of.”
- James Dean Bradfield, The Manic Street Preachers.
John Peel’s patronage was for me, like countless other musicians one of the most significant things that happen to us in our career. The world is going to be a poorer place with his sudden departure. I will miss him deeply. I want to send my heartfelt sympathy to his lovely family. John’s memory will never be forgotten because he had the spirit of music in him.”
- Damon Albarn, Blur.
“Who am I going to listen to now? He’s been my inspiration since I was 14. I’m thinking about you. Thanks John Peel.”
- Thom Yorke, Radiohead
“I was shocked to hear about John. I was fortunate enough to meet him and play a session at his home. I remember we had a great conversation about Elvis that day and when I saw his record collection it blew me away. He was the first to play our debut single Caught By The Fuzz on the radio which I know brought us to people attention he was a big influence to so many. We will miss him.”
- Gaz Coombes, Supergrass.
“John Peel was a rare breed amongst radio DJ’s, his contribution to introducing new music to music fans in this country has been phenomenal and he will be sadly missed.”
- Noel Gallagher, Oasis.
“In a world that is becoming ever more homogenised and pre-programmed, John Peel stuck up for the ’sore thumbs’ of the music scene and I really can’t think of anyone who could have done it better or who’s going to do it now he’s gone.”
- Jarvis Cocker, Pulp.
It’s not just musicians who have been moved by John’s passing. There has been a deluge of e-mails and messages from across the globe, all remembering his championing of the music that changed their lives and enriched their record collections.
“I have many happy memories growing up listening to John Peel and he was responsible for nurturing my love of music. I first heard Eek-A-Mouse, Roses and Mondays and Nirvana (to name a very few) whilst listening to his sultry tones on the wireless. My heartfelt condolences go out to all his family at this sad time.”
