Is protest music dead? A discussion presented by BIMM

29 October, 2019

BIMM Institute is proud to present a discussion panel at Rough Trade East (Brick Lane, London) this November. The free-to-attend event will feature The Go! Team drummer and BIMM Alumna Simone Odaranile, electronic anarchists Black Futures and legendary punk rock reggae spokesman and DJ, Don Letts.

This exciting event – which will be mediated by BIMM Music Ambassador, celebrated pop culture academic, #1 selling author and ITMI podcast host Dr Jenifer Otter Bickerdike – seeks to investigate and discuss themes of social commentary and protest within today’s musical zeitgeist.

“It is a total honour to get the opportunity to discuss music as a vehicle for change with the legendary Don Letts and relative newcomers Simone Odaranile and Black Futures.” said Bickerdike.

“Music has historically provided inspiration for change, with artists often being the proverbial canary in a coal mine when conflict is rife. I can’t wait to hear if our panellist still find music a tool and mirror for change.”

Meet the panellists

Legendary Don Letts

Don Letts is a Grammy-award winning British film director, DJ and musician. He was one of the key figures surrounding the formation of legendary punk rockers, The Clash.

His close relationship with the band throughout their career led to the creation of notable documentaries ‘The Clash – Westway To The World’ and ‘Punk: Attitude’. Don currently fronts the weekly ‘Culture Clash Radio’ show on BBC 6.

Black Futures featured image

Black Futures‘ debut album ‘Never Not Nothing’ was one of the most hotly anticipated releases of 2019.

Signed to Sony Music, this London duo fuse aggressive punk rock attitude with high energy electronica in the same vein as DFA 1979, Does It Offend You Yeah? and Chemical Brothers.

Simone Odaranile is a graduate from BIMM Institute Brighton and drummer with cut ‘n’ paste indie pop troupe The Go! Team, with whom she has toured as far and wide as Japan, America, China, Europe and the UK.

Among many other drumming sessions, Simone has recently appeared in internationally televised ads and performed live on national TV shows such as The X Factor.

How to reserve your place

If you love music, particularly music with strong social and/or political leanings, then this event is 100% for you. Reserve your place for free now!

Date: Monday, 25th November 2019
Location: Rough Trade East
Doors: 6:00pm, Panel begins at 7:00pm

Tickets available here – Entry is free of charge, but ticket sign-up is recommended to avoid disappointment.


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