October 1994: KISS 102FM Radio went on air with the strap-line “Manchester’s Essential Rhythm” and it helped shape the rhythm of the city, breaking the rules and taking “the music, culture and spirit of Manchester’s music scene and distilling it into liquid radio gold.”
For three glorious years the station was the voice of Manchester’s club scene before it was bought out…and ultimately sold out.
But now it’s back for one night only as key DJs from the Kiss on-air roster are “getting the band back together” and bringing the Kiss vibe to the heart of the Northern Quarter.
Saturday 19th October will see a host of DJs head to The Pen & Pencil for this FREE 25th Anniversary reunion, complete with Andy Barker (808 State), David Dunne, Graeme Park, Jam MCs (Chris Jam & Tomlin), Kath McDermott (Homoelectric/Flesh), Mark Hogg (Slammin’ Boys), MarkXTC (Da Intalex) and Nev Johnson.
The reasons for hosting this fabulous, funky night are two-fold: firstly, to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Kiss going on air, and secondly, to raise funds for an important cause of the Kiss 102 family.
There can be few people in Manchester who don’t know Chris Nelson, AKA Chris Jam an ex-Kiss 102 DJ, or felt the influence of his urban, urbane music and healing positivity. And now Chris needs the love back. In February 2018, Chris’ seven-year-old son – Blaise Alexis Nelson – was diagnosed with a brain tumour Chris describes as the ‘size of a satsuma’.
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy followed, but the Nelson family are now dealing with the reality that there is no treatment that can ultimately cure Blaise’s condition. While Chris and the Nelson family are finding some peace with their situation, Blaise’s condition requires regular (and expensive) treatment, support and care.
They therefore need Manchester to do what it does best: to come together… to celebrate with music… and to raise funds to help Blaise. And that’s what this reunion of friends both old and new, is all about, joining together for one night to raise the roof and raise some money.
The event is free with opportunities to donate throughout the evening.
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Kiss 102FM – 25th Anniversary Reunion
Venue: Pen & Pencil
Date: Saturday 19th October
Time: 7pm – 2am
Cost: FREE
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The Pen & Pencil, Fourways House, 57 Hilton St, Manchester M1 2EJ
thepenandpencilnq.co.uk
