The contribution of Black artists to the world of music (and beyond) is often woefully ignored. A landmark London exhibition aims to go some way to setting that right by celebrating some of the most important Black musicians in the UK and looking at their cultural impact here and globally.

The Music Is Black: A British Story will be the first show to open the highly anticipated V&A East museum in Stratford in 2025, and will celebrate 125 years of Black music in the UK, spotlighting often untold stories of excellence, struggle and joy.

Beginning in 1900, and with unprecedented access to the BBC’s archive, the exhibition will bring to life the stories of musicians and those behind the scenes. From early pioneers such as Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and Winifred Atwell to modern-day musical changemakers including Kano, Little Simz and Jorja Smith. And you’ll get an insight into music making, from Carnival to club nights, recording studios and record shops, MC battles, festivals and more. 

The one question we’re asking is: why has it taken so long? And we’re not the only ones. Iconic music broadcaster Trevor Nelson says: “There are so many different colours and shades of Black music and so many eclectic styles that have emerged from the UK. The fact that we haven’t had a national exhibition on Black British music is quite surprising to me. I feel it needs to be documented. But more importantly, to tell the stories that are untold.”

It hasn’t yet been announced when in 2025 the show will open, but we’ll keep you updated as soon as we know when you can smash that pre-order ticket sale button. And until then you can get a flavour of what to expect in this video created by Meeks + Frost. 

Images: Getty; Harry Hammond, Victoria & Albert Museum, London