Laser558 & Laser Hot Hits

24/05/2026

42 years ago today... it all began. Officially.

Today, in 1984, we heard the official launch of LASER558 with Ric Harris opening the station at 5am. What a ride it was!

22/04/2026

Most of us remember Chris Tarrant on Capital Radio, but do you remember why he joined? At the time, Capital had lost 1 million weekly listeners since 1982. Radio 1 was in a similar position, so shake-ups were happening at both stations. Chris joined Capital to try to win back some of the listeners who had left for LASER558's all-pop, less-chat output. Coincidentally, Capital Radio's music format changed as well, to... a pop format with less chat.

22/04/2026

I found a whole new trove of LASER558 press cuttings, so I'll post them over the coming weeks. Did anyone attend either of these?

10/02/2026

We've just added a fantastic piece of LASER558 history to our online shop. Our LASER558 MV Communicator Poster has a special place in pirate radio history. It is a high-quality reproduction of the original LASER558 MV Communicator Poster sold in 1984, printed on premium photo paper. Hang it with pride!

As with the original poster, our poster measures18 inches by 24 inches (45cm x 60cm) and is fingerprint-resistant.

Our LASER558 MV Communicator Poster has a special place in pirate radio history. Not only is it a high-quality reproduction of the original LASER558 MV Communicator Poster sold in 1984, but it was reproduced from the actual poster that hung in the ship’s studios and was taken down by Erin

04/02/2026

Relive the golden age of pirate radio with exclusive merchandise from LASER558's Erin Kelly! In 1985, Erin was aboard the MV Communicator as a dedicated DJ, capturing incredible behind-the-scenes moments during one of the most dramatic chapters in offshore broadcasting history. Now, for the first time, she's making a selection of those photographs available as high-quality t-shirts and mugs. Every purchase directly supports the brand-new LASER558, relaunched in 2023 to bring back the spirit of free, fearless radio.

The collection includes three iconic images: the broken mast that silenced LASER558 for weeks in 1985, a tense deck view during 'Euroseige '85 showing Radio Caroline and the DTI's Dioptric Surveyor locked in a standoff, and a light-hearted shot of Charlie Wolf catching rays on 'Splinter Beach'—the makeshift sunbathing platform the crew nicknamed with a grin. These items are more than just memorabilia—they're a piece of pirate radio history and a way to help keep the LASER558 legacy alive. Grab yours today and show off a slice of 1985 with pride!

As a 'Thank You' to all of our loyal Facebook friends, we're giving 50% off all of the mugs in Erin's collection for the whole of February if you use the code 'FACEBOOK50' at the checkout.

Copyright LASER558 Ltd 2023. 'LASER558', 'LASER Hot Hits', 'Where the music is never more than a minute away', and the LASER558 and LASER Hot Hits logos are registered trademarks of LASER558 Ltd.

09/01/2026

To everyone who has let us know that you were having problems with our app in the Apple Store, your problems are over.

01/01/2026

Clearing Up the Confusion: LASER558, Nostalgia, and the Real Story

Over the past few months, we’ve noticed some understandable confusion online around the name Laser, with a number of stations, streams, and social media pages using similar branding or references to the famous offshore era of the 1980s. Given how iconic that period of radio history was, it’s no surprise that so many people feel drawn to the sound, spirit, and nostalgia of Laser. In many ways, that passion is something to celebrate — it proves just how powerful and enduring that era of broadcasting really was.

We genuinely welcome the renewed interest in classic radio, heritage formats, and the music that defined generations. Nostalgia is a powerful thing, and the fact that so many listeners still care deeply about Laser’s legacy says a great deal about its cultural impact. From chart shows and specialist programmes to the unmistakable sound of 60s, 70s and 80s hits, that heritage continues to inspire radio lovers around the world.

However, it’s important to clarify one key point.

LASER558 is the legitimate, officially operated continuation of the LASER558 name in broadcasting, run as a fully licensed DAB Radio and online radio station, fully licensed by OFCOM. We are the registered owners of the LASER558 and LASER HOT HITS trademarks and logos for radio broadcasting and streaming, and we operate transparently, professionally, and with respect for both the music and the audience. Our station is not an imitation, a tribute stream, or a look-alike project — it is the authentic LASER558 radio service as it exists today.

Unfortunately, the growth of internet radio has also made it easier for similarly named projects to appear, sometimes unintentionally causing confusion for listeners trying to find the “real” station. We understand that this can be frustrating, especially for long-time fans who simply want to tune in and enjoy the music without having to second-guess which stream they’ve landed on. That’s exactly why we feel it’s important to be open and clear about who we are.

LASER558 today is built on three simple principles:

Respect for radio heritage — celebrating the sound, style, and attitude that made Laser legendary.

Quality broadcasting — professionally curated music, specialist shows, and consistent programming.

Legitimacy and transparency — operating under properly registered trademarks and clear ownership.

If you’re listening to LASER558 via our official website, apps, or verified social channels, you’re in the right place. You’re hearing the station as it’s meant to be heard — curated by people who understand the history, care about the music, and respect the audience.

We’re proud that the Laser name still means so much to so many people, and we’re equally proud to be carrying that torch forward responsibly. Thank you for your continued support, your passion for great radio, and for helping keep the true LASER558 sound alive.

LASER558 is the official broadcasting service operating under registered radio trademarks. Any similarly named streams or pages are not affiliated with LASER558.

Turn it up — you’re home.

31/12/2025

Happy New Year from LASER558 & LASER Hot Hits.

2026 is all set to bring you more nostalgia, more surprises, and a lot more music!

18/08/2025

Looking back at the newspapers 40 years ago this month, when it was all kicking off...

03/08/2025

Here we go again... Another UK Top 40 from forty years ago today. Join me tonight from 6-9 for the chart countdown for August 3rd 1985.