(L to R:) Lauryn Hill, Margaret Ekpo, Bob Marley, Skepta and Nelson Mandela. Composite: Redferns/Fourth Estate/Luath Press/Mariner/Corbis/VCG/Getty/Rex/Shutterstock/Alamy/Guardian DesignView image in fullscreen(L to R:) Lauryn Hill, Margaret Ekpo, Bob Marley, Skepta and Nelson Mandela. Composite: Redferns/Fourth Estate/Luath Press/Mariner/Corbis/VCG/Getty/Rex/Shutterstock/Alamy/Guardian DesignMassive Attack, Bob Marley, bell hooks and grime: what forces shaped four generations of Black Britons?Arlo Parks, Eunice Olumide, Ade Adepitan and Vanley BurkeFor Black History Month, figures from the arts, culture and sport reveal the people and ideas that made them who they are today When you’re traduced, abused and gaslighted – believe me, Black History Month matters | Hugh Muir ‘British music has shaped me completely’Arlo ParksSinger and songwriter, 26 What book has most inspired you? All about love by bell hooks taught me so much about the nuances of connection and desire; it helped me make sense of the world and embrace my sensitivity. She had such a compassionate and inspired approach to truth-telling that I try to carry with me wherever I go.What albums or artists have most shaped your sense of self? British music has shaped me completely.…
Massive Attack, Bob Marley, bell hooks and grime: the forces that shaped four generations of Black Britons | The panel
In short
British arts and culture leaders including Arlo Parks, Eunice Olumide, Ade Adepitan, and Vanley Burke shared the pivotal forces that guided their lives for Black History Month. The contributors traced their growth through diverse inspirations ranging from groundbreaking musical acts to pivotal literary anthologies. Musician Arlo Parks specifically highlighted foundational British bands and the Notting Hill carnival, while voicing concern regarding the UK's rising anti-trans rhetoric. Model and activist Eunice Olumide noted how touring globally with major artists and witnessing the rise of grime shaped her perspective.
Key points
- Grime served as a vital movement that elevated the language and daily realities of margin…: Grime served as a vital movement that elevated the language and daily realities of marginalized youth into mainstream British culture.
- Landmark public cultural events, including the Notting Hill carnival and Tate Modern's la…: Landmark public cultural events, including the Notting Hill carnival and Tate Modern's late-night programming, provided critical creative inspiration.
- Multi-generational Black Britons drew foundational strength from an eclectic mix of inter…: Multi-generational Black Britons drew foundational strength from an eclectic mix of international authors, visual artists, and innovative musicians.