Massive Attack, Bob Marley, bell hooks and grime: the forces that shaped four generations of Black Britons
For Black History Month, figures from the arts, culture and sport reveal the people and ideas that made them who they are today
TL;DR
- A singer, a model/actor/author/activist, a presenter/advocate, and a photographer/artist share their life influences.
- Key influences include books like bell hooks' 'All About Love' and 'King Leopold's Ghost', and music from artists such as Radiohead, Massive Attack, Portishead, Lauryn Hill, Skepta, Bob Marley, and Stevie Wonder.
- Cultural moments like Glastonbury, Tate Modern late nights, Notting Hill Carnival, Meltdown festival, grime's emergence, and the London 2012 Olympics are highlighted.
- Black historical figures like Zadie Smith, Steve McQueen, Donald Rodney, Margaret Ekpo, and James Baldwin are cited as influences.
- Concerns about anti-trans rhetoric, pressure on public services, and the legacy of Thatcherism are expressed.
- The concept of intergenerational misunderstanding is explored, with each generation underestimating the challenges faced by others.
- A 'good life' is defined variably as a life full of love, generosity, and adventure; being a source of joy and kindness; and not having to be conscious of race while being able to pay bills.
- All four individuals express contentment with their lives, with some regretting missed opportunities to share success with deceased parents.