How to vote for Radio 2's Ultimate Elvis Song
Voting is open at bbc.co.uk/elvis
Elvis Aaron Presley, born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, became one of the most legendary and influential figures in music history. To commemorate what would have been his 90th birthday in 2025, Radio 2 is inviting listeners to vote for their favorite Elvis songs starting today. The top picks will feature in Your Ultimate Elvis Song, a countdown show hosted by Elvis enthusiast Vernon Kay, airing on New Year’s Day from 3-5pm and available on BBC Sounds. The show will include listener memories, celebrity tributes, and, of course, The King’s unforgettable music. Voting closes at midday on Friday, December 13.
Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2, shared her excitement: “Radio 2 has a proud tradition of honoring music’s greatest icons, and none are bigger than Elvis Presley! I can’t wait to see which songs our amazing listeners choose to celebrate his 90th birthday.”
Vernon Kay added: “Elvis. One name, one legend. His music has spanned generations, and he remains the most recognizable musician of all time. I grew up listening to my aunt’s Elvis records, and his presence is still felt in our household today. I can’t wait to reveal the nation’s favorite Elvis track and hear how much he means to Radio 2 listeners.”
In addition, two special documentaries will air on New Year’s Day, also available early on BBC Sounds from December 27. In Cerys Matthews: Elvis Presley, My King (5-6pm), singer-songwriter and lifelong Elvis fan Cerys Matthews reflects on the profound impact Elvis had on her life, from childhood memories in Wales to her artistic journey and visits to his iconic haunts in Tennessee. Cerys shared, “Elvis was my gateway to music. His repertoire of blues, rock ’n’ roll, and more shaped me deeply. Even my son’s middle name is Tupelo!”
At 6-7pm, When Wales Welcomes The King, hosted by Owain Wyn Evans, explores Porthcawl’s annual Elvis Festival, where fans and tribute acts from around the globe celebrate The King’s legacy. Owain said, “From world-class tribute acts to heartfelt fan stories, the Porthcawl Festival showcases why Elvis remains such a powerful icon. It’s a joy to share this incredible celebration with Radio 2 listeners.”
Fans can vote for up to five tracks from a selection of 90 UK Top 20 hits, including classics like Suspicious Minds, Jailhouse Rock, and Can’t Help Falling in Love. The full list and voting details can be found on the Radio 2 website.
BBC Radio 2 remains the UK’s most-listened-to radio station, with 13.3 million weekly listeners and top-rated shows like The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show and Vernon Kay’s weekday morning show.