Radio X

Radio X is a British commercial radio station owned by Global. It broadcasts across the UK on DAB digital radio, online via Global Player, and on FM in London (104.9 FM) and Manchester (97.7 FM). Launched in 2015 after rebranding from XFM, the station plays an indie and alternative rock format for listeners aged 15–44.

Most modern rock stations either dive into obscure underground tracks or stay stuck in decades-old classics. Radio X fills the gap between them. The schedule relies on high-energy presenter chat alongside major guitar anthems from bands like Kasabian, Courteeners, and Royal Blood. Breakfast host Chris Moyles sets the tone, with daytime presenter Toby Tarrant keeping the pace moving. For those after new music, John Kennedy’s X-Posure hosts live sessions with unsigned talent, while Radio X Chilled plays lower-tempo tracks.

The station works because it keeps alternative music accessible without turning into a complex niche product. RAJAR numbers for Q2 2026 back this up, with 2.411 million weekly listeners, 19.7 million listening hours, and a 1.9% audience share.

The daytime tracks get repetitive if you tune in every day, but switching to the evening specialist shows or weekend slots solves that pretty quickly.