PROJECT 74A





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 accountant and radio presenter who played a significant role in the development of the community resource.


74a  High Road, London NW10 2PU


The Birth of Time Radio

While at Project 74A, Time Radio was founded in the early 1980s by Ronald Amanze, Henry Macfarlane, Hartley Rochester, and Micky D. This radio station emerged as a vital Black music service, attracting a diverse audience across Brent and London. Time Radio quickly became a cornerstone of the community, providing a platform for local artists and DJs to showcase their talents.


As Time Radio gained prominence, the team sought to transition from a pirate station to a more legitimate entity. They established Time Enterprise, which served as an advertising and PR agency, allowing them to operate within the legal framework while still promoting their music and community initiatives. This shift not only strengthened their position in the industry but also provided a foundation for future endeavours.


Expanding the Radio Landscape

The influence of Project 74A extended beyond Time Radio. After moving on from managing the station, Hartley Rochester and Micky D founded Fresh FM. Ronald Amanze was instrumental in setting up several other radio stations, including London Irie FM, Girls FM, West London Radio, Sky FM (Shepherd's Bush), People's FM (Chalk Hill), and Beat FM. This proliferation of stations highlighted the thriving media landscape that Project 74A had helped cultivate.


The Recording Studios at 74A

74A became a bustling hub for creativity, housing several recording studios. Ruff Cutt operated a recording studio on the second floor, while Lloydie Crucial ran a studio on the first floor. Wayne Marshall and Orlando Gittens also utilised the space for their private project recording studio. These facilities allowed local artists to record music and collaborate, further enriching the cultural fabric of the community.


The Ruff Cut Band 


Support and Sponsorship

The success of Project 74A and its associated ventures was bolstered by the support of various sponsors and stakeholders. Notable figures such as Carl Palmer from Jet Star Music, representatives from Virgin Records and Island Records, as well as Brent Council, who provided advertising funds, played pivotal roles in the initiative's success. Erskine Thompson, an influential figure in the reggae industry, also provided support, further establishing the station's credibility and reach.

 

A Vibrant Community Space

The building at 74A also featured additional community spaces, including a large hall that was split into two units. Unit 1 housed Lloydie Crucial's studio, while Unit 2 served as a hall available for community hire for events such as parties and meetings. This multi-functional space fostered community engagement and collaboration, strengthening the bonds among local residents.

 

The Lasting Legacy of Project 74A

Project 74A and Time Radio exemplify the power of community-driven initiatives in Brent. From its inception as a derelict building to becoming a vibrant hub for music and creativity, 74A has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. The stories of those involved demonstrate how resilience, creativity, and collaboration can transform lives and foster a thriving community.

In conclusion, Project 74A, and Time Radio illustrates the power of community, creativity, and determination. The narratives of these initiatives serve as a reminder of the potential for positive change, even in the face of adversity. As the legacy of Time Radio lives on, it stands as a testament to the vibrant spirit of Brent and the enduring power of music and community.


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