Chris Moyles criticised for saying most unsigned bands are 'crap'

Chris Moyles has been criticised for his comments on Radio X where he called most unsigned bands "crap".

The DJ was responding to complaints from listeners about how he rarely plays unsigned bands on his breakfast show.

Moyles explained why: "And the real reason is, and this will blow their tiny minds and they’ll hate this, the reason why we won’t play unsigned bands is because – and there are exceptions to the rule – but the main reason is that most unsigned bands are crap.

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"I’m sorry, but that’s the truth.”

The broadcaster's comments have been criticised by many in the industry as well as numerous unsigned artists.

Andy Crofts from The Moons hit back at Moyles on social media: “I’d say most signed music is generic and crap these days and they have the leverage to be put out there that unsigned bands don’t. Every band/ artist starts out unsigned and has to graft to even be noticed. Don’t p*** on their fire.”

Band Hardwicke Circus also said: “Don’t call yourself a DJ when you’re not interested in discovering new music. Outed yourself once again as a completely insipid half-wit.”

As well as musicians, listeners of Moyles' Radio X show were critical of his comments with one saying: "That clip of Chris moyles saying most unsigned bands are crap and that’s why he doesn’t play them is a really bad take. Every band on radio x playlist has been unsigned at one point."

Independent acts have become much more commonplace in the streaming era with notable names such as Stormzy, Dave and Jorja Smith all achieving significant success without initially signing to a record label.

Pop star Raye also scored a number one album in the UK earlier this month after releasing her debut My 21st Century Blues through her own label after parting ways with Polydor Records.

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