According to a press release from the BBC, it is launching “its first ever DAB+ music stations, marking a significant milestone in the history of BBC Radio.” The three originally started as streamers on BBC Sounds last fall.
Wait, there’s more: “The three new station extensions from Radio 1 and Radio 3 are the first to be added to the BBC’s music portfolio since 2002 — when the BBC launched 6 Music, 1Xtra and Asian Network.”
The new stations are Radio 1 Dance, Radio 1 Anthems and Radio 3 Unwind. The stations have targeted audiences.
The release relates, “Radio 1’s Dance and Anthems extensions provide younger listeners (with a focus on 15–24) with greater variety in music genres and eras they enjoy, along with established favorite and newly introduced presenting talent. Radio 3 Unwind broadens the audience for classical music in the UK with a schedule designed for younger listeners (35–54) than other classical stations and is designed to meet the moods and needs of modern audiences.”
And the “new stations reinforce the BBC’s commitment to championing new music and supporting British artists.”