Tracy Clifford Celebrates a Decade of Connection on RTÉ 2FM
Tracy Clifford marks ten years at the helm of her popular afternoon show on RTÉ 2FM, a milestone celebrated today with a special “Big Tune Afternoon” broadcast live from Studio 1 in the Radio Center. The Dublin broadcaster reflects on a decade of captivating listeners, championing Irish music, and forging a unique connection with her audience. Tune in from 12-3pm to hear live performances from Gavin James, Chasing Abbey, and Aimee.
From Nervous Beginnings to a radio Staple
Clifford’s journey began in 2015, a moment she recalls with palpable nervousness. “Oh god, the first show I was so, so nervous,” she admitted. “It was a big deal because I was such a 2FM fan growing up, so getting to 2FM felt like a massive step for me, because I was fulfilling a dream.” The initial six months were a steep learning curve, marked by the pressure to succeed and avoid an early exit. “I remember feeling – don’t mess this up,” she said. “That was the goal,and not to get pulled off the air within six months!”
The Power of Connection: Unexpected Moments On Air
Over the past ten years,Clifford’s show has become known for its authentic and often deeply moving moments. one particularly resonant experience involved a caller during the COVID-19 pandemic. While playing a quiz, the woman revealed she hadn’t seen her family in five weeks and was struggling with isolation. “That lady needed to talk, she texted into a radio station to play a quiz, I asked her how she was and she told the truth,” Clifford explained. “At that time,people were just looking for connection,so that was really memorable for me.”
Beyond these intimate conversations, clifford has had the chance to interview some of the biggest names in music, including Dua Lipa, Liam Gallagher, U2, and Stormzy. She acknowledges the pressure of these encounters, wanting to deliver engaging interviews that offer listeners something new. “You don’t want to mess it up for the listeners because it could be their favorite artist,” she noted.
Liam Gallagher: A Childhood Hero
One interview stands out as particularly memorable: her conversation with Liam Gallagher. “He was the dream,” clifford confessed, recalling how she even asked producers to leave the studio during the interview. “He was so funny, he answered my questions about a comeback and he was absolutely brilliant.” She described Gallagher as remarkably honest about his relationship with his brother Noel and genuinely funny.
Chasing Global Listeners: A Worldwide Audience
Clifford’s reach extends far beyond Ireland’s shores, with listeners tuning in from around the world – including Newfoundland, canada, and Essex – to tune in.
Priceless Moments: The Joy of giving Back
One of Clifford’s favorite aspects of her job is the opportunity to surprise listeners with prizes, whether it’s a holiday or tickets to see Taylor Swift.”I love ringing somebody up and giving them the best prizes,” she said, admitting she often cries along with the winners. “Those moments are priceless, I feel a little bit like Santa Claus.”
Fontaines DC: A Modern Oasis
Reflecting on memorable gigs, Clifford recently cited Fontaines DC‘s Christmas performance at the 3Arena as particularly impactful. She likened the experience to seeing Oasis in her youth, recognizing the band’s potential for lasting success.
Looking Ahead: Embracing the Unknown
As she celebrates a decade on air, Clifford remains optimistic about the future. “I haven’t a clue what it’s going to be!” she admitted.”I take each day as it comes. I’m so privileged to have a job that I really like, I never thought it would last 10 years.” She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with listeners and make a positive impact, whether through music, laughter, or simply providing a comforting presence. “That’s all we can hope for, really.”
