The most requested artist on Desert Island Discs, as of 2022, is Nina Simone.
Nina Simone: A Landmark Achievement
Nina Simone achieved the significant milestone of becoming Desert Island Discs' most selected artist by 2022. This makes her the first Black person to hold this distinction in the show's long history, marking a notable achievement in the program's cultural impact.
Frequently Selected Artists Through the Years
While Nina Simone holds the overall title, many other celebrated artists and composers have consistently been among the most chosen year after year. The selections highlight a diverse range of musical tastes among the castaways.
Below is a glimpse into some of the artists most frequently selected in recent years:
| Year | Most Selected Artist(s) |
|---|---|
| 2014 | Johann Sebastian Bach |
| 2015 | Johann Sebastian Bach |
| 2016 | The Beatles |
| 2017 | Queen, The Beatles |
| 2018 | Mozart |
| 2019 | Bach, Joni Mitchell, Mozart |
| 2020 | Nina Simone, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Mozart |
| 2021 | Mozart |
From this snapshot, we can observe:
- Classical Dominance: Composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Mozart frequently appear, showcasing the enduring appeal of classical music among guests. Mozart, in particular, has been a top pick in multiple recent years.
- Rock and Pop Icons: Legendary groups such as The Beatles, Queen, and The Rolling Stones, alongside solo artists like David Bowie and Joni Mitchell, also feature prominently, reflecting their widespread influence across genres and generations.
The show's format, where guests choose eight pieces of music to accompany them on a desert island, offers a unique insight into their personal histories and musical preferences, leading to a rich tapestry of choices over its many decades on air.
For more details on Nina Simone's achievement and other popular selections, you can refer to the Guardian's report on the topic.
