Black British Music Legends Share Their Defining Moments at V&A Exhibition
For its inaugural show, the V&A's east London outpost is celebrating 125 years of Black music-making in Britain with an exhibition titled The Music Is Black: A British Story. We asked top performers to pick their favourite exhibits and share the personal stories behind them, offering a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Black British musical heritage.
Goldie's Tribute to Kemistry and Storm
Goldie selects Kemistry and Storm (The Diptych) by Eddie Otchere from 1995, recalling his first encounter with Kemistry on Camden High Street. "It was a cauldron of people with their tops off on podiums, giving it loads," he says of the Rage night hosted by Fabio and Grooverider. Goldie emphasizes that gender was irrelevant: "Can they play? Yes. Can they bury people? Yes. That's it." He reflects on the tragic car accident that took Kemistry's life in 1999, noting that her spirit lives on in his studio in Thailand, where he still seeks her guidance.
Estelle on Slick Rick's Enduring Influence
Estelle chooses Janette Beckman's 1989 photograph of Slick Rick, describing it as timeless. "His style and storytelling laid the foundation for British hip-hop," she asserts, highlighting how his authenticity resonates today. Living in the US, Estelle credits Slick Rick for shaping perceptions of her accent and cherishes collaborations with him, calling him "our legend – and he's also my big bro."
Dennis Bovell Remembers Linton Kwesi Johnson
Dennis Bovell picks a 1979 photo of Linton Kwesi Johnson and Darcus Howe at the Race Today offices in Brixton. He recalls how Johnson's powerful words addressed marginalisation: "We're being swept under the carpet." Bovell joined forces with Johnson to blend music and poetry, spreading messages that remain relevant today.
Roland Gift's Rough-and-Ready Gig Tales
Fine Young Cannibal Roland Gift selects the poster for the Beat's 1980 album I Just Can't Stop It. He shares a harrowing story from a Birmingham gig where fans approached with pickaxe handles instead of posters. "Gigs were like that back then – rough and ready," he notes, contrasting it with the glamour of later success, including Top of the Pops appearances.
Arlo Parks Celebrates Street Party Euphoria
Arlo Parks is drawn to Dave Swindells' 1988 photo of Fabio and Grooverider at a Tottenham Court Road street party. "I love the sense of euphoria in this photo," she says, comparing it to modern celebrations like Juneteenth. She praises the duo as "sonic explorers" who built a grassroots legacy in drum'n'bass.
Courtney Pine's Spooky Connection to History
Courtney Pine chooses a 1930s sheet music folder owned by Leslie "Jiver" Hutchinson, a Jamaican trumpeter who overcame barriers to lead a military band. "He laid the ground for people like me," Pine remarks, noting their shared birthday and his research into Black musicians dating back to Henry VIII's era.
AJ Tracey's Carnival Spirit
AJ Tracey selects Johny Pitts' 2010 photo of five girls at Notting Hill Carnival, capturing its vibrant energy. Growing up in Ladbroke Grove, he describes carnival as a cultural cornerstone that influences his music. "Performing on streets I roamed as a kid is completely different," he says, recalling his debut performance there.
Flo on Award Recognition and Heritage
Stella, Renée, and Jorja from Flo highlight the Brit Awards trophy designed by Nigerian artist Slawn in 2022. "Winning this was a big deal," Stella states, emphasizing the importance of highlighting Slawn's heritage. They acknowledge pioneering girl groups like Little Mix and Sugababes for paving their way.
The exhibition The Music Is Black: A British Story opens at the V&A East Museum in London on 18 April, offering a profound exploration of Black British musical contributions through these personal narratives and historical artifacts.
