Artists Select Highlights for V&A Exhibition on Black British Music History
To mark the opening of its new east London outpost, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is launching an inaugural exhibition celebrating 125 years of Black music-making in Britain. The article features prominent artists such as Goldie, Estelle, Courtney Pine, and Flo, who selected their favorite exhibits from the collection. Goldie chose a 1995 photograph of DJs Kemistry and Storm, reflecting on their profound influence on drum and bass culture and his personal connection to them. Estelle highlighted a 1989 image of Slick Rick, emphasizing his foundational role in storytelling within British hip-hop and his lasting impact on her career. Dennis Bovell selected a 1979 photo of Linton Kwesi Johnson and Darcus Howe, recalling the intersection of poetry, music, and political activism through the Race Today publication. These selections illustrate the diverse genres and cultural significance of Black British music, ranging from jungle and hip-hop to dub poetry. The exhibition aims to preserve and honor this rich heritage, showcasing how these artists shaped the musical landscape and influenced subsequent generations.
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Artists Select Highlights for V&A Exhibition on Black British Music History
To mark the opening of its new east London outpost, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is launching an inaugural exhibition celebrating 125 years of Black music-making in Britain. The article features prominent artists such as Goldie, Estelle, Courtney Pine, and Flo, who selected their favorite exhibits from the collection. Goldie chose a 1995 photograph of DJs Kemistry and Storm, reflecting on their profound influence on drum and bass culture and his personal connection to them. Estelle highlighted a 1989 image of Slick Rick, emphasizing his foundational role in storytelling within British hip-hop and his lasting impact on her career. Dennis Bovell selected a 1979 photo of Linton Kwesi Johnson and Darcus Howe, recalling the intersection of poetry, music, and political activism through the Race Today publication. These selections illustrate the diverse genres and cultural significance of Black British music, ranging from jungle and hip-hop to dub poetry. The exhibition aims to preserve and honor this rich heritage, showcasing how these artists shaped the musical landscape and influenced subsequent generations.
The Guardian