Bob Harris Celebration Concert Announced at the Royal Albert Hall with Roger Daltrey, Paul Weller and Robert Plant
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Music legends from across the worlds of rock, folk, country and pop are coming together for a very special evening in honour of one of Britain's most respected broadcasters. Stand By Me: Bob Harris – A Celebration of Life In Music takes place at London's Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday 2 December 2026, bringing together an incredible line-up of artists to celebrate the life and career of the much-loved "Whispering Bob".
Quick Answer
A special one-night-only concert celebrating legendary broadcaster Bob Harris will take place at the Royal Albert Hall on 2 December 2026. The event features performances from Roger Daltrey, Paul Weller, Robert Plant with Saving Grace and Suzi Dian, Rick Wakeman and many more, with additional guests still to be announced.
Key Facts
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Concert | Stand By Me: Bob Harris – A Celebration of Life In Music |
| Date | Wednesday 2 December 2026 |
| Venue | Royal Albert Hall, London |
| Musical Director | Ethan Johns |
| Headline Artists | Roger Daltrey, Paul Weller, Robert Plant with Saving Grace and Suzi Dian, Rick Wakeman, Carly Pearce and more |
| More Guests | Still to be announced |
A Night Celebrating One of British Music's Greatest Champions
Few figures have had a greater impact on British music broadcasting than Bob Harris. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he has introduced audiences to countless artists through programmes including The Old Grey Whistle Test, Sounds of the 70s and Bob Harris Country on BBC Radio 2.
His passion for discovering and supporting artists has earned him enormous respect throughout the music industry, making this celebration a fitting tribute to one of broadcasting's true legends.
What Is The Incredible Line-up?
The concert already boasts an outstanding collection of performers, including:
- Roger Daltrey
- Paul Weller
- Robert Plant with Saving Grace and Suzi Dian
- Rick Wakeman
- Carly Pearce
- Chris Difford
- Beth Nielsen Chapman
- Judie Tzuke
- Kate Rusby
- The Shires
- Kezia Gill
- Toby Lee
More artists are expected to be announced ahead of the event.
The evening will also feature appearances from well-known broadcasters and music personalities, alongside archive footage celebrating Bob Harris's remarkable career. Bob himself will be attending the concert as a guest of honour.
Bob Harris Reflects on the Special Evening
Speaking about the event, Bob Harris said:
"I've been blessed and honoured to have been there with all these artists right at the beginning of their careers, so we all have long working relationships and deep friendships. I truly love the Royal Albert Hall too. I first began attending concerts there in 1968, and it is, to me, the most beautiful and prestigious venue in Britain. So I feel so honoured to have these wonderful artists with me onstage at my favourite venue. Bringing this music together for 'Stand By Me' is the realisation of a dream."
What Is The Legacy of "Whispering Bob"?
Affectionately known as "Whispering Bob", Harris has been one of the defining voices of British radio since joining the BBC in 1970. His thoughtful interviews, gentle presentation style and genuine enthusiasm for new music have helped launch and support generations of artists.
Alongside his broadcasting achievements, Harris has received an OBE for services to music broadcasting, been inducted into the UK Radio Hall of Fame and remains one of the leading champions of country and Americana music in the UK.
Despite recently stepping back from some of his BBC Radio 2 commitments while undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, Harris continues to work on a variety of music projects and remains one of the industry's most admired figures.
A Unique Evening for Music Fans
With legendary performers, special guest appearances and tributes spanning more than 50 years of music history, Stand By Me: Bob Harris – A Celebration of Life In Music promises to be one of the standout live music events of 2026.
Whether you first discovered artists through The Old Grey Whistle Test or have followed Bob Harris throughout his remarkable broadcasting career, this promises to be an unforgettable celebration of a true music icon.
If you're looking to revisit albums from many of the artists appearing on the night, explore the extensive collection of CDs and vinyl available at Chalkys.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Bob Harris celebration concert?
The concert takes place on Wednesday 2 December 2026.
Where is the concert being held?
The event will be held at the Royal Albert Hall in London.
Who is performing?
The line-up includes Roger Daltrey, Paul Weller, Robert Plant with Saving Grace and Suzi Dian, Rick Wakeman, Carly Pearce, Chris Difford, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Judie Tzuke, Kate Rusby, The Shires, Kezia Gill and Toby Lee, with more guests still to be announced.
Will Bob Harris be performing?
No. Bob Harris will attend as the guest of honour while fellow musicians and broadcasters celebrate his career.
Why is the concert taking place?
The event celebrates Bob Harris's extraordinary contribution to music broadcasting and his decades of supporting artists across rock, folk, country and popular music.