Black History Month 2024 - Reclaiming the Narrative
For Black History Month (BHM) 2024, we ran several events supported by the Hackney Council’s Black History Season grant where we worked with some of our existing collaborators and partners to deep digger into, and elevate and share, their artistry and experiences with the Hackney community.
The focus of this year’s BHM was reclaiming the narrative and the series including live music performances, spoken word and talks. The people came to the events rated the experience 4.8 out 5 and told us what they enjoyed. Comments included:
“Brilliant. I love the host's positive vibes and commitment to art and creativity. Enjoy the audience and venue”
“I liked especially hearing about the history behind today's music”
“Great Vibe. Excellent Music. Keep it up”
“There should be more places like this, all over the world”
“Good vibes. Amazing Community Feel. Great Music. Real Soul”.
Find out more about the events with photos and videos below:
JAZZ JAM WITH GUEST BYRON WALLEN
Rio Kai has been band leader of ‘Stratos’ (Grow’s House Jazz Band) since its inception, 8 years ago. Rio is also a Mercury Award nominated bassist, part of 11-piece British jazz ensemble ‘Seed’ and Courtney Pine’s ‘House Of Legends’ and been musical director at Shakespeare’s Globe for several productions including this year’s Othello.
On 10 October, Rio Kai, invited legendary British trumpeter Bryon Wallen as an extra special guest. We also caught up with Rio to discuss the topic for this year’s BHM which was about reclaiming the narrative and what it meant to him as an artist.
IN CONVERSATION WITH MARCIA CARR AND GUESTS TWIGGLES AND LADY BANTON
In Conversation with Marcia Carr was an inspiring all-female panel talk held on Tuesday 19 November. The discussion dives into the highs and lows of working within the music industry, exploring themes of Black British culture, business, and collective history.
Marcia Carr has been an internationally acclaimed DJ for 40 years and founder of the all-female, all-vinyl club night Girlz B Like at Grow. She is also a pioneering former street/jazz dancer, and founder of a music PR and artist agency.
Marcia was joined by Lady Banton, of Seduction City Sound powerhouse and the UK’s No. 1 female sound system operator, and a pioneering DJ who has shaped sound system culture since 1985, and Twiggles: A “Wild Life photographer” capturing the raw energy of London’s nightlife. After years of dancing and connecting with the city’s vibrant underground scene, she is a visionary photographer known for her distinctive "friend photography" style, this discussion dives into redefining Black representation in the UK.
Watch now to gain valuable insights from this empowering and insightful event!
MY WORD PRESENTED BY OVYUKI
On Tuesday 1 October, Hidden Literature's MY WORD held a Black History Month edition. The evening brought together some of London's most talented musicians, poets, and spoken word artists for an intimate open mic night that captivated audiences with its rich blend of hip-hop, R&B, neo-soul, poetry, and spoken word.
MY WORD was founded and hosted by Ovyuki who is a poet, spoken word artist, photographer, and producer known for her unique approach blending the flavours of the 90’s to bring forth a futuristic sound to her audience.
Performers and attendees shared powerful reflections on Black history, identity, and resilience, creating a space for authentic storytelling and heartfelt expression. From poignant poems honouring the past to uplifting songs envisioning the future, each contribution celebrated the vibrancy, success, and enduring strength of the Black experience.
WILLIAMS CUMBERBACHE TALK AND PERFORMANCE WITH EDWARD WAKILI-HICK
On 20 October, renowned percussionist Williams Cumberbache was joined by Sons of Kemet drummer Edward Wakili-Hick for an electrifying performance. Their synergy and masterful rhythms brought the audience on a journey, blending traditional beats with contemporary influences in a powerful display of musical artistry.
Following the performance, Williams gave an insightful talk on rhythm, exploring its profound influence on contemporary urban music. Through vivid examples and personal anecdotes, he revealed how traditional rhythms continue to shape and inspire modern soundscapes.
Williams hosts Canalside Sessions every Sunday at Grow and has 20 years of experience in the UK music scene, including collaborations with Goldie and Björk. He has been one of the key figures in the afro-latin music scene for many years. His expressive style combines African traditions with modern Caribbean innovations.