SXSW London x Black Lives on Music

SXSW London is nearly over and what an unforgettable moment it was for Black Lives in Music. From a vibrant live showcase to a thought-provoking panel discussion, we were proud to spotlight Black British talent and amplify critical conversations around the future of Black music in the UK.

On Wednesday, 4th June, BLiM took over The Ditch at Shoreditch Town Hall for our official SXSW London showcase, a powerful celebration of Black British music and creativity. The evening featured unforgettable performances from an incredible line-up of talent:

• Carleen Anderson with Melior Opus Griot
• Amiri Harewood
• The Forever Presence
• Braimah Kanneh-Mason with Plinio Fernandes
• Ayanna Witter-Johnson

Each artist brought their own unique sound and story to the stage, making for a night that was both soul-stirring and unforgettable.

In addition to the music, BLiM’s Dr. Charisse Beaumont joined an industry panel titled “How Do We Feed the Economy of Black Music for the Next 5 Years?” This vital discussion tackled the structural changes needed to truly support and sustain Black music talent, now and into the future. The session sparked important dialogue on investment, representation, and long-term cultural impact.

Thank you to all the artists and attendees who helped make BLiM’s presence at SXSW London such a success. And a special thank you to SXSW London for the platform and opportunity. We’re energised, inspired, and more committed than ever to building an equitable and thriving music industry for all.