The relationship with your show producer is a bit like a marriage, but without the make up sex after an argument. Roque my producer has been my corner man for over seven years and that’s why it’s with genuine sadness he leaves me and moves onto some new suit and tie job that doesn’t involve getting up at 3.30am five days a week. Sucker!
Luckily for One Golden Square, he is staying here as he is one of the most sought-after producers in the country. His tea making skills really are that good.
During our time together he played such a major part in my success helping me notch up over Six Sony Golds for breakfast shows and perhaps the highest accolade – X Trax Magazine South-East presenter of the year. He is my lucky rabbit’s foot and it’s been emotional. Over the last seven years he has;
- Allowed me to conduct his wedding ceremony live on air in LA
- Managed to get Tony Blair the then PM to speak to us during Who’s Calling Christian
- Calmed down an irate Chris Martin who entered same competition but when quizzed by a duly doubtful Roque (that Chris Martin would enter Who’s Calling Christian) as to what his parents’ names were, hung up. Roque has special producer rhino skin called him back and talked him round
- Let me assist in his live on air vasectomy. And any producer that gives you his balls is worth his weight in gold. Which Roque is.
He is the yardstick by which all producers should be judged. He has the rare and important qualities you need producing a breakfast show. He is dependable, reliable, enthusiastic, energetic and has a twinkle in his eye for mischief. He has been the fire and brimstone driving what I have done on breakfast radio for along time. His hard work ethic is inspirational. Many new DJs name check stuff they have heard over the years, Roque was usually the band conducter for the funny.
The times when I have wobbled he has kept me steady. If you saw him with his kids at V or when we flew to Lapland you’ll also know hes a great Dad which says much about the man.
If you know Roque then you like him. His terrifying giggle has been heard on air the world over and the real mark of a bit working was seeing him spew his tea out of his mouth.
Many people owe him a big thank you. Most of all me. Brian learnt everything he knows from Roque. Let’s not dwell on that though. Let’s not make that his legacy.
Listeners owe him. They have confided their innermost secrets to him. Sworn at him for not being allowed to speak to me. Thrown a punch at him during an OB in pub. Thanked him when he’s called them during his family tea time to say tell them their V tickets have been sorted.
He has shared in my success and failure. Often more of the latter. Give him a hug and say well done. He deserves it.
Christian
