Music Matters: NOW That’s What I Call Music!

Are you ready to feel old? The latest ‘Now That’s What I Call Music!’ compilation has just been released, and it has reached volume number 124. Staggering, I know! I clearly remember buying the first NOW album on double cassette in 1983 from Woolworths in Rustington.

The brand was created by Richard Branson’s Virgin Records - and the first album included thirty UK hit singles from the likes of Culture Club, UB40, Heaven 17, Phil Collins and Kajagoogoo and was available on double vinyl or cassette.

In a time well before Spotify or other streaming services, the great thing about the NOW music collections was that you got terrific bang for your buck as far as getting the most value out of your pocket money – it meant you could own a variety of the latest original chart hits on one album at a cheaper price than buying them all as singles.

Some ‘NOW That’s What I Call Music!’ facts for you: the most successful volume to date is volume 44 that sold 2.3 million copies and the most featured act across the series is Robbie Williams.

My pal Rigsby is a huge fan – his party trick after a few beers is to recite the track listings in order of the first dozen albums. Now, there is an impressive musical feat!

My musical gems: Don’t forget to get your tickets for the Southdowns Music Festival taking place in beautiful Bognor Regis between 11 and 13 September. This immense celebration folk music features performances from Phil Beer, Roving Crows and 3 Daft Monkeys.

If you enjoy beer with your music, then Hoptoberfest 2026 is happening at the Staggeringly Good Brewery in Southsea on 16 October. As well as top German beers, there will be live music from Dickie & The Von Hornstars doing everything from traditional Oompah tunes to modern mashups!

Listen to Duncan Barkes on Nation Easy Radio, Monday to Friday nights from 10pm. Nation Easy Radio can be heard on DAB digital radio, via the Nation Player app and on your smart speaker – just say “Play Nation Easy Radio.”