In a powerful tribute to 125 years of cultural influence, the BBC has unveiled an extensive season of programming titled "The Music is Black." Launching in April 2026, the season is a direct collaboration with the V&A East Museum’s inaugural exhibition, celebrating the profound impact of Black British music on the global stage.
A Cross-Platform Cultural Takeover
The season spans television, radio, and digital platforms, offering a deep dive into genres ranging from Jazz and Reggae to Grime and UK Garage. Lorna Clarke, BBC Director of Music, emphasized the broadcaster's commitment to showcasing the "breadth of British Music" and its enduring influence on today’s musical landscape.
Highlights of the season include:
Radio 2 at Hackney Empire: A flagship event on June 28 featuring the Chineke! Orchestra and legendary guests like Courtney Pine and Alison Limerick.
Radio 1Xtra’s 100-Year Mixtape: A 60-minute audio-visual journey curated by Shortee Blitz and Beat A Maxx, featuring over 200 tracks.
6 Music’s "Rave Forever": Every Friday in August will celebrate a different decade of Black British dancefloor culture, culminating in an All Day Carnival on August 31.
Education and Regional Roots
The initiative extends far beyond entertainment. BBC Bitesize is launching secondary school resources—developed with the V&A—covering historical milestones from 1920s Jazz to Stormzy’s 2019 Glastonbury headline set.
Meanwhile, BBC Local Radio will explore regional scenes, from the 2 Tone movement in Coventry to the Jungle crews of Bristol, ensuring the stories of fans and community members are preserved.
Digital Discovery
Starting April 14, audiences can access a dedicated digital hub at www.bbc.co.uk/themusicisblack. This site will host an interactive Mastermind quiz hosted by Clive Myrie, alongside a curated collection of documentaries on BBC iPlayer, including 8 Bar: The Evolution of Grime.
From the East Bank festival at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to bespoke Gospel performances on Songs of Praise, this season represents an unparalleled commitment to reflecting the diversity of British artistry.
