Great Lives

Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Discussion & Talk

Factual: Life Stories

Biographical series in which guests choose someone who has inspired their lives.

BBC Radio 4 FM

Great Lives: Gil Scott-Heron

Gil Scott-Heron

BBC Radio 4 - Great Lives, Gil Scott-Heron

Garden Designer Joe Swift celebrates the poet and musician Gil Scott-Heron

Described by those who knew him as a 'Revolutionary Man of Peace' Gil Scott-Heron transformed the musical landscape of the 1970's. In 2021 he was posthumously inaugurated into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, honoured with an Early Influencer Award. Today, Garden Designer Joe Swift - who witnessed Gil's legendary concerts - shares his passion for the artist who 'spoke truth' and educated a generation through his music. Joe is joined by Malik Al Nasir who worked with Gil and became his protégé, developing a life long friendship following a chance encounter at a concert. Malik is author of 'Letters To Gil' a memoir of his own life and the time he spent with Gil Scott-Heron.

Presented by Matthew Parris
Produced by Nicola Humphries

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Great Lives

Gil Scott-Heron

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4