Beats 1 DJs on Apple Music are being forced to work from home during the coronavirus pandemic and while they’re stuck inside, they’re turning to FaceTime to get the job done.
Apple revealed Monday that its radio show hosts will record interviews with musicians and other artists from their homes by using FaceTime on iPhone.
Most Apple Music employees work out of the company’s office in Culver City, California. An employee at those offices recently tested positive for COVID-19. California’s governor recently ordered that all residents in the state shelter in place to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Beats 1 shifts to FaceTime
“To prioritize the health and safety of its staff and guests, beginning today, Apple Music hosts will record their shows with field equipment from their homes, working virtually via FaceTime on iPhone,” Apple said in a statement. “Tune in for an array of fresh and genre-spanning shows throughout the week as Beats 1 remains committed to continuing to deliver its eclectic programming to passionate music fans across the globe.”
First up among the FaceTime interviews will be Zane Lowe with Elton John, Miley Cyrus and Lil Nas X. He’ll check in with Charli XCX, Harry Styles and Hayley Williams later in the week.
Beats 1 DJ Ebro Darden is set to interview Jhene Aiko, Lil Baby, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and Dan Toliver. Meanwhile, Rebecca Judd, Brooke Reese, Nadeska Alexis, Julie Adenuga, Travis Mills, Hanuman Welch, Kelleigh Bannen, Sandra Peńa and El Guru will return to their regular time slots using iPhones from their phones.
Apple Music is also promising exclusive shows from Elton John, The Weeknd, DJ Khaled, Action Bronson and others.