Touching Bass: A Deep Dive into London’s Celebrated Black Music Collective
Touching Bass has become a vital force in London’s music scene, evolving far beyond a simple club night. It’s a multifaceted cultural hub dedicated to celebrating Black music in all it’s richness and complexity. This exploration delves into the origins, evolution, and impact of Touching Bass, offering a complete look at what makes it so special.
The Genesis of a Movement
The story of Touching Bass began with a simple observation.Founders Errol and Alex Rita noticed a gap in London’s nightlife. They weren’t finding enough spaces were Black music could truly thrive and move audiences during peak hours.
This realization sparked an idea. During their inaugural night in 2016, playing D’Angelo’s “Spanish Joint” around 1 a.m. proved pivotal. The overwhelming positive response confirmed they weren’t alone in their desire for this kind of musical experience.
More Than Just a Party: A Growing ecosystem
Touching Bass quickly expanded beyond a single event.Today, it encompasses several interconnected elements:
* A Renowned Club night: The core of Touching Bass remains its celebrated club nights, known for their carefully curated selections and vibrant atmosphere.
* An NTS radio Staple: Their weekly show on NTS Radio extends their reach, introducing a wider audience to their unique musical vision.
* An Award-Nominated Record Label: the label provides a platform for emerging and established artists aligned with their aesthetic.
* Dynamic Concert Series: Collaborations, like their recent series with The Barbican, showcase live performances and expand their curatorial scope.
* A Dedicated Curatorial Studio: This allows them to explore and develop projects across various artistic mediums.
A Global Journey and Artistic Collaborations
Since its inception, Touching Bass has taken its sound and vision internationally. They’ve toured extensively, even bringing their toddler along for the ride.
Throughout their journey, they’ve shared the stage with iconic artists, including:
* Theo Parrish
* Josey Rebelle
* Erykah Badu
Their commitment to fostering creativity is evident in their 2022 compilation, Soon Come. This project featured contributions from talented musicians like keiyaA and Nala Sinephro.
Celebrating Culture and Community
Touching Bass deeply values its cultural roots. For the past five years, they’ve hosted an all-ages warm-up event for Notting Hill Carnival.
This vibrant festivity features:
* local Caribbean food vendors
* Dedicated children’s areas
* Performances by artists like Skiifall, Wayne Wonder, and Greentea Peng
It’s a testament to their commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
Honoring Artistic Visionaries
Touching Bass consistently uses its platform to celebrate artistic excellence. On November 7th, they will host a night honoring the work of American painter Kerry James Marshall.
Stay Connected
You can stay up-to-date on future events and projects by following Touching Bass on Instagram. You’ll find announcements, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and a deeper connection to this influential collective.
Touching Bass isn’t just about playing music; it’s about building a community, celebrating culture, and creating spaces where black music can truly flourish. It’s a testament to the power of passion,vision,and a deep love for the art form.
Keep reading