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PROJECT 74A

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Brent has a rich and vibrant history shaped by community-driven initiatives, notably exemplified by Project 74A and the emergence of Time Radio. These narratives reveal the incredible resilience and creativity within the community, particularly among its youth. Project 74A: A New Beginning In the early 1980s, Ronald Amanze, an entrepreneur and community activist, obtained a grant to renovate the derelict spaces situated above Ericson's menswear on High Street Harlesden. This initiative led to the creation of a multi-purpose community facility, which included a fashion studio, photography studio, and more, serving as a hub for creative expression and local entrepreneurship. Ronald Amanze With a 17-year lease secured for the building, Amanze, along with partners Stephen Ellis and others, established Gebon, an organisation aimed at fostering enterprise and community engagement. The renovation was made possible by an £85,000 grant awarded to Gebon, which was secured by Roy Forbes, an ...
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FINDING JOY THROUGH CHALLENGES: THE HEART OF JOY GREY’S NEW SINGLE “YADAH PRAISE”

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Conscious Artist Joy Livingston aka Joy Grey In the tapestry of life, challenges can often overshadow our blessings. However, for artist Joy Livingston aka Joy Grey, a dedicated Christian and conscious soul, every season presents an opportunity to praise God and reflect on the positives. Her latest single, “Yadah Praise,” encapsulates this spirit, encouraging listeners to embrace gratitude even in difficult times. Joy views the world as her family, a perspective that fuels her desire to serve and uplift those around her. She has a unique ability to connect with the divine, often describing her relationship with God as one marked by deep understanding and forgiveness.  Joy’s prayer to God—to see with His eyes, touch with His hands, and walk with His feet—reflects her commitment to living a life of service and love. “Yadah Praise” invites listeners into a space of reflection and meditation, reminding us all to acknowledge the good amidst life’s trials. Joy's artistry is not just a...
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Reggae Pon Top: An Unforgettable Evening at The Jago Dalston

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This past weekend, The Jago Dalston turned into a pulsating hub for reggae music, providing exciting  energy with the spectacular event, “REGGAE PON TOP”! Enthusiasts of the genre came together to celebrate the inauguration of  a remarkable evening,  featuring outstanding performances from some of the finest talents in UK reggae. The evening commenced with the smooth and mysterious vocals of Gaven Creary, the frontman of Black Slate. He enchanted the crowd with a heartfelt reggae version  of the classic song “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” originally sung by rock band The Clash. That was merely a preview of what lay ahead. Gaven demonstrated his songwriting skills with two of his latest r n’ b tracks: “You Don’t Have To”, and “Reality” leaving the audition in awe of  his musical composition abilities and undeniable artistry. Vocally he coaxed and caressed the audience, taking them with him as soared to the high notes. Gaven Creary sings “REALITY”    F...
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The Birth, Growth and Legacy of the Black Music Industry Association

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Against the vibrant backdrop of 1985, a group of passionate individuals came together, united by a shared vision. This collective, primarily comprised of black musicians, recognised a pressing need for an organisation dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by artists in the black music scene. Thus, the Black Music Association (BMA) was born, its founding members including notable figures like Byron Lye-Fook—father of acclaimed singer-songwriter Omar—and producer Scratch Professor, along with Root Jackson, Gasper Lawal, KK Van Lare, Kofi Darko, and Charles Easmon. The official launch of the BMA was marked by a significant seminar at the Shaw Theatre in Euston on July 13, 1985—the very day of the legendary Live Aid concert. The atmosphere was electric as the organisation took root, operating from the Kongo Records offices owned by Root and Byron on Mill Hill Lane, near Kilburn. When Black Insight, another voluntary organisation, closed its doors, the BMA seized the opportu...
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