Summary
A new exhibition called "Music Is Black: A British Story" opened at the V&A East museum in London, showcasing 125 years of Black British music. It features important music items like Stormzy’s stab-proof vest, Joan Armatrading’s childhood guitar, and Winifred Atwell’s piano, highlighting how Black music influenced British culture and history.
Key Facts
- Stormzy’s stab-proof vest, designed by Banksy and worn at Glastonbury, is a key item in the exhibition.
- The show traces Black British music from imported styles like jazz and reggae to British genres like Grime and Trip Hop.
- Winifred Atwell’s upright piano, a symbol of breaking racial barriers, is included; she was the first black UK artist to have a number one single.
- The exhibition connects music to themes of national identity, street crime, prejudice, and protest.
- Other exhibits include Joan Armatrading’s guitar, stage outfits from Seal and Poly Styrene, and Michael Jackson’s handwritten lyrics for "Thriller."
- The collection spans decades and continents, showing how music from Africa and the Caribbean influenced UK sounds.
- Items like Jerry Dammers’ 2-Tone logo sketches and JME’s Nintendo console illustrate British Black music’s diverse history.
- The exhibition uses special headsets to create a personalized music experience as visitors move through the displays.
