Bob Harris' musical family will come together at London's Royal Albert Hall this December for a special one-night concert celebrating the career of one of Britain's most beloved broadcasters.

Stand By Me: Bob Harris - A Celebration of Life In Music will see legendary artists including Robert Plant, Paul Weller and Roger Daltrey join forces for a unique evening honouring the man who has spent more than five decades championing musicians and connecting audiences with new sounds.

The concert, taking place on 2 December 2026, will feature performances from across the worlds of rock, folk, country and pop, with Rick Wakeman, Carly Pearce, Chris Difford, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Judie Tzuke, Kate Rusby, The Shires, Kezia Gill and Toby Lee also set to appear. More guests are expected to be announced.

Many of the artists taking part share a long history with Harris, whose influential broadcasting career has helped introduce generations of listeners to some of the most important voices in music. From the original Sounds of the 70s and the iconic The Old Grey Whistle Test to his work championing country and Americana through Bob Harris Country, his support has made him a trusted figure across the industry.

Speaking about the concert, Harris said it represented a dream opportunity to celebrate the friendships built throughout his career.

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."

The evening will also feature appearances from music and broadcasting figures sharing memories of Harris' extraordinary career, alongside archive footage celebrating some of the defining moments from his time in music.

Known affectionately as "Whispering Bob", Harris has been a constant presence in British broadcasting since joining the BBC in 1970. His gentle delivery and passion for discovering new talent helped him become one of the most respected champions of artists at every stage of their careers.

Beyond his radio work, Harris has played a major role in the growth of country and Americana music in the UK, hosting BBC Radio 2's Bob Harris Country and presenting the annual C2C: Country to Country Festival since its launch in 2013.

The broadcaster was awarded an OBE in 2011 for services to music broadcasting and has received numerous honours throughout his career, including the Americana Music Association's Trailblazer Award, a UK Radio Hall of Fame induction and multiple Sony Awards.

The Royal Albert Hall has long held a special place in Harris' own musical story, making it a fitting setting for a celebration built around the artists, friendships and moments that have defined his life in music.

Stand By Me: Bob Harris - A Celebration of Life In Music takes place on Wednesday 2 December 2026 at the Royal Albert Hall, London.

Tickets: https://gigst.rs/BHLIM (On sale Friday 7th August at 10am).

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.