RADIO One legend Tim "Big Dawg" Westwood became the first star to perform to an almost empty Sheffield Arena last night – but thousands of fans still enjoyed the show.
He was there to broadcast his popular BBC 1Xtra radio programme live from the venue.
But tonight there won't be a spare seat when he returns with Trevor Nelson and Mistajam to co-host the BBC 1Xtra Live show.
It will feature performances by The Sugababes, JLS, Dizzee Rascal, Tinchy Stryder, Chipmunk, Chase & Status, Taio Cruz, Kano, Jay Sean and Donaeo.
More than 11,000 music fans snapped up all the free tickets for the pop party weeks ago.
In an exclusive chat with The Star, Tim said: "I ended up doing my radio show live to absolutely nobody except some catering, some roadies and the guys sweeping the Arena. There looked to be about 30 people."
But he added: "It's exciting. I love Sheffield town. I come up here to do a lot of parties – Vibe and Niche nightclubs. So this is the rightful place for 1Xtra to come, to do their big showcase event, 1Xtra Live. I'm looking forward to it man.
"It's defining my life. I'm going to be passing out at the front of that stage, screaming when JLS walk on that stage. When Dizzee Rascal picks up that mic. When Tinchy Stryder goes in. There's also Chipmunk. It's going to be crazy. It's the highlight of my broadcasting career.
"It's great to be up in Sheffield town. I'm a great fan of it – you know what I mean. Let's do it baby. Sheffield Star all day. One."
Tonight's BBC 1Xtra Live show will be broadcast as a Radio 1 and 1Xtra simulcast event, from 7pm to 11pm. TV highlights will be in a special 30-minute programme on BBC Three.
It is the Sugababes' biggest crowd since the departure of last remaining original member, Keisha Buchanan.
See The Star on Monday for photos and report from 1Xtra Live.
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