Stories of the Blues: Celebrating Liverpool’s Sound System Culture

Join us in remembering and celebrating the impact and legacy of sound system culture in Liverpool, with an evening of discussion, deejays and dancing.

Featuring music from the original Strugglers’ Sound System, from the days of The Frontline, Errol Graham of Bozra Man Sound, Dr Mykaell Riley of Formerly of Steel Pulse. 

Through the 1970s and 80s, the streets of Liverpool 8 reverberated with music played from powerful homemade sound systems, providing the soundtrack and force behind ‘Blues’ or ‘Shebeens’ – all night parties in available local spaces; organised by the people, for the people. Although reduced in number blues clubs remained until the 90’s.

Since its emergence in the UK during the 1950s, sound system culture has had a profound influence on British musical history. Initially serving as a cultural hub for early Caribbean communities, sound systems played a crucial role in shaping the experiences of Black Britons and their resistance to racism. The history of sound systems is also a story of joy and of community coming together, which, in the current climate, is something that needs to be remembered, and celebrated. Liverpool has a rich history of sound system culture, although one that has not had the attention or documentary interest of places such as London or Bristol. We want to hear your stories and preserve this crucial musical heritage.

Doors: 6pm

7.00pm:  Panel discussion hosted by WoW Co-Director Madeline Heneghan.
We’ll be talking to some of the key players from the times – including sound system operators, deejays, dancers and organisers. Featuring: Errol Graham (Bozra Man Sound), and Dr Mykaell Riley (Steel Pulse). 

We’ll then open the floor to questions and thoughts from the audience.

8.00pm till late: Struggler’s Sound take us back to The Blues – playing the original sounds, on the original sound system, that powered the Frontline on Granby Street. Music, Dancing and Good Times til late…. Refreshments available by donation.

Dr Mykaell Riley’s career started as a founder member of the British roots Reggae band Steel Pulse who would go onto receive a Grammy. Over the years he has performed, produced, managed and consulted on many successful artists and their projects. As a professional writer/producer, Mykaell’s work has encompassed TV, Film and Theatre, resulting in over eleven UK top twenty positions, and three UK number ones. He also formed The Reggae Philharmonic Orchestra, Britain’s first black pop orchestra – and composed extensively for television including the BBC 1&2, ITV1, 2,3, SKY and Endemol TV. He was then invited to join the first popular music, industry-focused course at the University of the Westminster.

This project is a Liverpool response to the Echoes From the Islands and Beyond the Bassline installations that are currently on display in Toxteth Library. In partnership with Whispered Tales and Liverpool City Council and funded by Liverpool City Council UKSPF and Arts Council England as part of Liverpool’s Black History Month celebrations.