By ADF Newsdesk – 

The Beyond the Bassline exhibition, a collaboration between the University of Westminster and The British Library, showcases the 500-year musical journey of African and Caribbean people in Britain. Curated by Dr Aleema Gray and Mykaell Riley, the exhibition explores the significant impact of Black British musicians across various genres on the UK music landscape since the 16th century. It delves into the spaces and technologies that have influenced and shaped British music, emphasising the rich legacy of African and Caribbean influences in British music.

The local Beyond the Bassline Exhibition launch on Thursday, April 25^th, in Kirklees was a community event held at the Chestnut Community Centre in Deighton, right in the heart of the ward where the majority of Black residents reside. The event was a testament to the power of community, bringing together music lovers, Kirklees Library Services representatives, and residents to honour the rich heritage of Black British music. It was a celebration of unity, protest, and learning.

In collaboration with the British Library and the Living Knowledge Network, the exhibition showcases 500 years of Black British music history through original artwork and research. Notably, the London display includes a spotlight on Kirklees’ own Howard Bellanfante, a significant figure in the local cultural scene.

Howard Belafonte, whose photograph is displayed as part of the London exhibition, said:

“The history of Black music in Kirklees is essential to our town’s cultural fabric.

“The exhibition highlights the presence of Black music in Kirklees for decades, stretching back to the 1940s. Howard emphasised the importance of recognising the ongoing influence of Black music in shaping the town’s soundscape.

“This exhibition allows us to share this heritage with the people of Kirklees in all its diverse and vibrant forms, from reggae and Soca/Calypso to Soul, R&B, and so much more,” Howard added.

The launch featured engaging activities such as a live stream of the British Library Exhibition launch, a presentation of Kirklees’ cultural heritage, and a lively performance by the Legacy Steel Band. Looking ahead, the exhibition will tour libraries and venues across Kirklees over the next two years, aiming to explore the diverse range of Black music genres, history, culture, and influence.

This collaborative project, driven by a shared love for music and cultural history, aims to amplify the voices and stories within Kirklees’ Black community, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the profound impact of Black British music.

Kirsty Wilson, Development Librarian – at Kirklees Libraries and one of the driving forces in the Exhibition being brought to Kirklees, said:

“There’s extraordinary and significant cultural history here in Kirklees, not least amongst the Black community and the rich history of Black Music in this town. So we felt it was essential to bring this exhibition to Kirklees and secondly to bring together individuals who are either interested in music or in the history and cultural history of the Black community and Kirklees to launch this exhibition here in Deighton, Kirklees “—Kirsty Wilson.

Get ready for an enriching exploration of centuries-old musical heritage right here in Kirklees!

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