Windrush Day 2023 at the Southbank Centre
To commemorate Windrush Day on 22 June 2023, the Southbank Centre has planned two special events in honour of the 75th anniversary of the Windrush generation's arrival. The celebrations kick off with a remarkable lineup of leading British and international musicians as part of the free gig series futuretense. Following this, the Royal Festival Hall will host the acclaimed 35-piece band Jazz Jamaica All Stars, featuring the vocals of Aswad's Brinsley Forde, Dem Three, and the Jazz Jamaica All Stars Choir. These events bring the spirit of the Caribbean, both old and new, to the heart of the South Bank.
What is Windrush Day?
Windrush Day, a commemoration of the arrival of the Empire Windrush in 1948 and the subsequent migration of Afro-Caribbean immigrants to the UK, holds special significance this year as it marks the 75th anniversary of this historic event. Despite the challenges they faced, the Windrush Generation made the UK their home, making significant contributions to their communities, careers, and families. This annual celebration acknowledges their lasting impact on British society across various fields, highlighting the ongoing contributions of Black British Caribbeans.
While honouring their achievements, it is essential to acknowledge the difficulties encountered by the Windrush Generation, exemplified by the Windrush Scandal. This unfortunate episode exposed the wrongful detention and deportation of individuals who had the legal right to reside in the UK. It sparked a nationwide campaign that led to the official recognition of Windrush Day in 2018. This significant day not only commemorates the heritage of the Windrush Generation but also pays tribute to the invaluable contributions made by migrants to British society.
Southbank Centre events in honour of Windrush Day 2023:
futuretense: Windrush Day Special
Image: Saxophonist, David Kayode. Image courtesy of Brighton Jazz Festival
futuretense’s Windrush Day Special promises a dynamic fusion of drill, soca, and jazz. Witness the trailblazing rap artist Reptile B, saxophonist David Kayode, the mesmerising vocals of Kkeda, and the beautiful melodies of Triniboi Joocie as they showcase their unique musical talents.
Date: Thursday 22 June 2023. Time: 5pm . Location: Riverside Terrace, Level 2, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX. Price: Free. More.
Jazz Jamaica All Stars: Catch a Fire
Image: Musician Brinsley Forde and Jazz Jamaica All Stars. © Benjamin Amure
Celebrate Windrush Day in style as you dance to the rhythms of Jazz Jamaica All Stars, a 35-piece big band featuring the incredible vocals of Brinsley Forde from Aswad. Joining Brinsley Forde are the talented voices of Dem Three on backing vocals, along with the harmonious Jazz Jamaica All Stars Choir led by Mark De-Lisser. With their unique fusion of jazz and reggae, Jazz Jamaica All Stars have enthralled audiences nationwide, including their remarkable tour with Hugh Masekela in 2004, marking the 10th anniversary of democracy in South Africa. Embrace this wonderful celebration and be part of a joyous tribute to the Windrush legacy.
Date: Thurday 22 June 2023. Time: 7.30pm. Location: Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX. Price: £30 – £40. Book now.