Story perspectives

New Series Explores Evolution of Black British Music

4/13/2026

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Kaylee Explores Music

The Music is Black is a new video series about the evolution of black British music from 1900 to the present, produced with V&A East Museum.
The series is divided into three episodes, guided by Kaylee, a BBC Radio 1Xtra presenter, with insights from Monique (sociologist), Kevin (journalist), Linett (DJ), and Mykaell (Steel Pulse member).
The initiative highlights cultural significance and resilience of black British artists in shaping music history.

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Linton Advocates Collaboration

Linton Kwesi Johnson, a British musician, invited Matumbi to collaborate, highlighting the marginalization of Black voices in British music.
The band endured a rough tour with The Beat, which preceded formation of Fine Young Cannibals.
Slawn, a Nigerian Brit Awards winner, emphasizes heritage as fueling success and inspiring future generations.
AJ Tracey notes Notting Hill Carnival's cultural significance, while contemporary artists acknowledge Slick Rick's influence, celebrating Black British music legacy.

History

Historical Context

The Notting Hill Carnival, initiated in 1966 by Claudia Jones as a response to racial tensions, celebrates Caribbean culture and has grown into one of Europe's largest street festivals, attracting around two million attendees annually. This cultural movement parallels the contemporary series "The Music is Black," highlighting the evolution of Black British music and its lasting influence, exemplified by artists like Linton Kwesi Johnson and AJ Tracey.

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Kaylee Explores Music

The Music is Black is a new video series about the evolution of black British music from 1900 to the present, produced with V&A East Museum.
The series is divided into three episodes, guided by Kaylee, a BBC Radio 1Xtra presenter, with insights from Monique (sociologist), Kevin (journalist), Linett (DJ), and Mykaell (Steel Pulse member).
The initiative highlights cultural significance and resilience of black British artists in shaping music history.

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