DJ Tim Westwood leaves BBC Radio

As part of a major schedule shakeup at U.K. Radio stations BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, the legendary DJ Tim Westwood will be stepping down as host.Announced this past weekend, the 55-year-old DJ’s prominent Saturday night show, which has been pivotal in introducing American rap stars to a U.K. audience, will no longer be part of BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra’s respective radio programs due to a shuffle that will see new show slots for DJ Target, Charlie Sloth, MistaJam and Clara Amfo.

Westwood has been dropping bombs as the voice of hip-hop on BBC Radio for nearly two decades, getting his start with the station in 1994. Throughout his reign his reign, the DJ’s popular show saw notable appearances from acts like The Notorious B.I.G., Jay Z, Nas, Eminem, Kanye West, Snoop Lion, Kid Cudi, 2 Chainz and many more. A major component of the program was the freestyle segment, on which major artists would spit some bars in Westwood’s studio.

In a statement, the station’s Controller, Ben Cooper, said, “I’d like to thank Tim for the last 20 years on Radio 1. His passion for hip-hop is legendary. I wish him all the very best.”

Westwood’s former slot will be filled by DJ Charlie Sloth, who’s interview with J. Cole in May of last year sparked headlines, as the rapper announced that TLC would be featured on his new album.