Popular BBC 1Xtra disc jock Robbo Ranx left the station last week after 12 years on the air. He will be focusing on the launch of his online radio channel Robboranxradio which begins on Thursday, October 2.

In an interview with Splash, Robbo Ranx explained the reason why he was no longer at the flagship station which targets the 18 to 25 age demographic.

“It was the station’s decision to cut. Four months ago, I had the choice to walk away. My show was the most popular show on 1Xtra and I want to continue to tap into that market with my new venture,” said Robbo.

Robbo hosted the weekly Thursday night Dancehall Show which featured the latest and hottest music in dancehall and reggae, entertainment news and interviews with entertainers and producers. The show’s weekly Top 5 Dancehall Chart chronicled the most popular tracks.

In an initial statement on social media, Robbo said, “Unfortunately, this current failure of black music on @1Xtra isn’t by accident. As long as we have decision makers who are out of touch and ignore culture that is ingrained in black music this type of story will continue to play out.”

The British media has been reporting on Robbo’s departure from the station. In a statement published by website Newsbeat.com, the management of BBC 1Xtra said: “We’d like to thank Robbo for his commitment and passion at 1Xtra over the last 12 years and wish him every success in the future. A new chapter begins in 1Xtra history next week with a refreshed line-up and we will continue to reflect the best in dancehall, bashment, reggae and soca on the daytime playlist. Our commitment to Jamaican music continues with a new Seani B Dancehall show Thursday 10pm-1am and David Rodigan’s successful Sunday night programme 7pm-9pm.”

The multi award-winning Robbo Ranx (real name Roger Robinson) was born in London to a father who is from St Elizabeth, Jamaica, and a mother who is from Dominica. While attending Wembley High in London, his interest in music developed and he started a local sound system.

He has been a regular fixture at the major festivals in London and Europe. He also does weekly gigs in the UK where he has cemented a large fan base.

Speaking about his new gig, Robbo noted that RobboRanxRadio will be broadcast from his website www.robboranx.com to a global audience.

“The dancehall audience is a truly global one, and advancements in technology means I can now bring the message that I truly believe in to this audience in its purest form. You can expect more of what I do best — the biggest tracks, special dancehall guests, live concerts and a few surprises,” he said.

“I love broadcasting and feel there are so many more possibilities and ideas that I plan to work on in the months and years to come — I look forward to bringing true dancehall fans as well as newcomers who love our music and culture together — we will have the perfect mix of audio, video and opportunities to hear from the artistes that matter in our scene — join me for the ride,” he said.