V&A East Explores Black British Music History

Jacqueline Springer has spearheaded the development of The Music Is Black: A British Story, the inaugural exhibition at V&A East, the Victoria & Albert Museum’s new site in Stratford, east London. Springer, whose career spans music journalism, broadcasting, lecturing, programming, and event coordination, sees the role as a culmination of her academic study and curatorial practice.

The Exhibition: *The Music Is Black: A British Story*

Opening April 18, *The Music Is Black: A British Story* frames Black British music as a central force in shaping the U.K.’s wider cultural identity. The exhibition encompasses 125 years of history, mapping the impact of British colonialism and how migration has influenced the cross-cultural richness of modern music. It houses over 220 objects, including photographs, paintings, prints, and stage outfits, honoring trailblazers like Janet Kay, Dame Shirley Bassey, and Steel Pulse alongside contemporary voices such as Little Simz and Sampha. The exhibition also examines how the sounds and styles forged within Black British music have been reinterpreted by acts like The Rolling Stones and The Beatles, moving through genres from reggae and lovers rock to blues and Afrobeats.

Research and Relationships

Springer’s research process involved extensive travel across the country and discussions with the family of the late Charlie Watts, the Rolling Stones drummer. She emphasizes the importance of trust and relationships in gathering research, noting that many artists retain personal ephemera and that the V&A’s robust security measures reassure contributors. She describes how she approached artists, asking them to identify an item that testified to their ability to make music, resulting in the inclusion of items like Janet Kay’s stage clothing and JME’s Super Nintendo, used for early music production.

Reframing Musical History

The exhibition seeks to redefine where the musical legacy begins and who it belongs to. Springer highlights the importance of pirate radio in providing a platform for Black artists and the ongoing need for self-expression and creative autonomy. She hopes the exhibition will inspire visitors, particularly younger audiences, to recognize the value of music and the artists who create it, and to view the V&A as a space for them.

Defining Success

Beyond visitor numbers and press coverage, Springer hopes the exhibition will leave visitors with a sense of awe and appreciation for the musicians who share their lives and create music that resonates with them. She envisions the exhibition as a lasting source of inspiration, similar to a memorable lecture, and a testament to the power of Black British music.