31 May 2024
Beyond the Bassline events at the British Library, June
Our events programme to coincide with the Beyond the Bassline exhibition continues into June. Many tickets include entry to the exhibition after hours. Here's what you can book for this month:
Sunday 2 June, 12:30 – 18:00
Piazza, British Library
Join us for an afternoon at the British Library hosted by Lin Kam Art, celebrating of the biggest contributions to UK music: sound system culture. With LIGWA sound system, Original Sounds Collective, Bass Tone Regeneration, talks, workshops and much more.
Curated by Linett Kamala from Notting Hill Carnival, this intergenerational day features two sound systems, talks, DJ sets, games, creative activities and installations.
Piazza and Pavilion activities are free to attend. Just turn up, no booking required. Last entry 5.30pm.
A Tribute to Sonny Roberts
Sunday 2 June, 13:30 – 14:30
The story of a one of the most important figures in Black British music, studio founder and label owner Sonny Roberts. With Cleon Roberts in conversation with Linett Kamala.
The Pioneers: Trailblazers of British Reggae
Sunday 2 June, 15:00 – 16:15
Pigott Theatre, British Library
Saluting the Pioneers with Daddy Ernie, Lady V (V Rocket International), Mad Professor and Carroll Thompson. Hosted by Seani B (Bruk Out / BBC Radio 1Xtra).
0121 – Birmingham’s Black Music Legacy
Sunday 2 June, 16:30 – 18:00
Pigott Theatre, British Library
Celebrating the profound impact of Birmingham's Black musical legacy with Punch Records supremo Ammo Talwar, writer and poet Casey Bailey, film maker Daniel Alexander and artists Dapz On The Map and Roxxxan.
John Blanke: the Black musician at the Tudor Court
Tuesday 4 June, 19:00 – 20:00
Piazza Pavilion, British Library
An evening dedicated to the life and legacy of the first recorded Black British musician.
Generational Women: Stars of music in conversation
Thursday 13 June, 19:00 – 20:30
Pigott Theatre, British Library and online
Talking music across the generations with Andi Oliver, Olivia Dean and Pauline Black. Hosted by Miquita Oliver.
Joan Armatrading in conversation
Tuesday 18 June, 19:00
British Library
The legendary singer, songwriter and three times Grammy nominated musician, in conversation with Jacqueline Springer.
Friday 21 June, 18:30
British Library
Join Queer Bruk for an early evening party showcasing some of the best of black queer talent the UK has to offer and celebrating community and creativity. Special guests for the evening are RnB sensation Tiana Major9, the incredible Donnie Sunshine and the gifted Talia A Daaling.
Moving Music: the Memoirs of Rikki Stein
Friday 21 June, 19:00 – 20:30
Pigott Theatre, British Library
An evening with powerhouse music manager Rikki Stein, sharing his incredible adventures on the road with, and managing some of the world’s most iconic musicians, from Jimi Hendrix to Fela Kuti.
Decus Ensemble featuring Le Gateau Chocolat
Monday 24 June 2024, 19:00
Pigott Theatre, British Library
Join Decus Ensemble and Le Gateau Chocolate for a whistlestop exploration of historical Black classical composers in Britain up to the first half of the 20th century. Featured composers include Ignatius Sancho, Frederick Bridgetower, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and Amanda Aldridge (aka Montague Ring).
WritersMosaic: Music, When it hits.. You feel OK
Tuesday 25 June, 19:00 – 21:00
Pigott Theatre, British Library and online
WritersMosaic host an evening of words and music with Julian Marley, Carol Leeming and An Alien Called Harmony. Hosted by Jeffrey Boakye.