Are Things Going Pete Tong For Pete Tong-

Radio 1 superstar DJ Pete Tong has left ffrr after reports in British tabloids claimed the dance label's parent company Warners/AOL had failed to renew his contract.

"Pete is not very happy about it at all," a Radio 1 "insider" told the Mirror. "He built the label up from nothing and now he's been tossed aside."

Press agents for Tong told Skrufff his departure had been agreed mutually, however.

"For the past two years I have tried to work out a way forward with Warner's for The Essential 'brands' and myself but it's not to be," Tong said in a statement. Being a DJ and Broadcaster is what I want to focus on right now."

In better news for Tong, Mix Mag have repositioned his regular column back at the front of the magazine, after burying it in the back for almost a year. He's also just started a weekly column in the Evening Standard, which, coupled with his long running Radio 1 show, means he remains dance culture's most powerful DJ.

"I'm particularly proud of what we achieved with FFRR and leaving it behind is very sad," he added.

"However, now is the time for a fresh start. Club and youth culture is changing and I want to be there as close to the creative roots as possible. I'm optimistic and excited by what the future holds."

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