Max HeyraudBeyond the Bassline at the British Library, celebrates 500 years of Black British Music. The exhibition is a map of Black music in Britain, highlighting the pioneers and innovators who brought new music to the UK.
Beyond the Bassline at the British Library, the world’s first major exhibition of its kind is more than just music. It’s about the venues where these sounds originated: clubs, carnivals, stages, and kerbside auditoriums. It is the expression of community, resistance, culture, and joy. It is a celebration of the trailblazers and innovators who introduced new music to the UK, as well as the multifaceted Black experiences that have shaped a thriving musical culture and history.
Transporting experiences give way to absorbing soundscapes, artworks, and films created by artists and collectives from across the UK. Archival footage leads to stunning costumes, interactive displays and, of course, music. At the end of the exhibition, Touching Bass, a South London-based musical movement and curatorial platform, will present a new multi-screen film installation.
Soul II Soul, Eddy Grant, Joan Armatrading, George the Poet, DJ Paulette, Jamz Supernova, and many others will perform and give talks.
Beyond the Bassline: 500 Years of Black British Music is a partnership with the Black Music Research Unit, part of the University of Westminster’s Centre for Research and Education in Arts and Media.
You can purchase tickets here.
