BBC Radio 1 names Annie Nightingale Pioneers for 2026
Three DJs have been selected for BBC Radio 1’s Annie Nightingale Pioneers 2026, with each presenting a special mix in November.
Jaz Imsky, Kara and Mia Koden will each appear in a special programme on Saturday 7 November, between 11pm and 2am, showcasing their musical influences and individual approaches to dance and electronic music.
The initiative, launched in 2021, celebrates the legacy of Annie Nightingale, Radio 1’s first female DJ and longest-serving presenter, who championed new music and emerging artists throughout her broadcasting career.
This year’s recipients represent different areas of electronic music, from bass and soundsystem culture to jungle and drum and bass.
Jaz Imsky, who was born in Singapore and raised in London, has released music on Deep Medi and performed at venues and festivals including Fabric, The Warehouse Project, Boomtown and Outlook.
She said: “Inspired by Annie Nightingale’s call to action, ‘Don’t wish! Do something.’ I am truly honoured to be selected and dedicate this mix to her.”
Kara has performed at Tomorrowland, Glastonbury and Boomtown, and launched The Foundation in 2024 as an independent record label and event series celebrating jungle and drum and bass culture. She is planning a nationwide Foundation tour in 2027 alongside solo music releases.
Mia Koden, a South London-based DJ and producer, has released music on Ilian Tape and was named Resident Advisor’s Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2024.
Mia also has a personal connection to Annie, having worked as an assistant producer on her BBC Radio 1 programme in 2018.
She said: “I’ll use the show to spotlight other artists with big bassy tunes, just like Annie always did.”
Aled Haydn Jones, Head of Radio 1, said: “Annie was a true pioneer who opened doors for generations of DJs and artists.”
He added that the initiative continues to provide emerging talent with a platform on the station, recognising artists contributing to the future of dance and electronic music.