A Discussion Between Ray Keith and VXRGO, Hosted by BHM and DNB
In the vibrant world of drum and bass, the month of October serves as a significant time to reflect on the genre's rich history and its deep-rooted connections with Black music. Pioneering figures such as DJ Rap, Kemistry (RIP), Storm, Tasmin, and Smokin' Jo are among the original female DJs who have made their mark in the scene, joining the likes of Ray Keith, Goldie, and Fabio & Grooverider in shaping the genre's foundations [1].
This year, the 30th anniversary of Goldie's groundbreaking label, Metalheadz, and the 30th anniversary of Dread Recordings, set to be celebrated in 2024, are milestones that remind us of the genre's enduring legacy. Meanwhile, Ed Rush & Optical's Virus Recordings is celebrating a quarter of a century, a testament to the genre's resilience and evolution over the years [2].
As the drum and bass community looks to the future, it's clear that education and inclusivity are key. Organisations like VXRGO are advocating for more workshops and events series to promote education and celebrate diverse talents within the community [3]. The Jaguar Foundation has also stepped up, providing rider templates to encourage fair billings for artists [4].
Collectives like EQ50 and Drum & Babes are pushing for change within the scene, aiming to create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels welcomed [6]. DJ Flight's Black Herstory series is an example of a themed night that highlights POC talent, showcasing the wealth of talent that exists within the community [7].
However, the drum and bass community is not without its challenges. While there's a growing trend of promoters and events booking more artists of colour, it often feels tokenistic [8]. The music industry should celebrate artists of colour because of their talent, not just to fulfil a diversity quota [9].
Ray Keith, often referred to as a Godfather of jungle and drum and bass, emphasises the importance of respecting the cultural and historical context of the music while also embracing diversity and innovation within the scene [1][5]. He encourages the community to highlight and educate about the Black pioneers of the genre, acknowledging their foundational role [10].
Moreover, figures from the "first wave" of drum and bass should speak out more about the genre's roots in Black cultures like reggae, jazz, and dancehall [11]. The raving community could also share their experiences from the 90s to show how diverse raves used to be, which could encourage more diversity in the current scene [12].
By focusing on the roots of the genre, recognising the contributions of Black artists, and fostering a sense of community that honours cultural origins without appropriation, the drum and bass community can celebrate Black History Month authentically and inclusively [1][5]. This approach aligns with Ray Keith's longstanding advocacy for recognising cultural roots and community within drum and bass, reinforcing a celebration of Black History Month that is both genuine and inclusive.
References: [1] The Origins of Drum and Bass: Interviews with DJ Bailey, Ink, Loxy, Krust, and Fabio & Grooverider [2] Ed Rush & Optical's Virus Recordings Celebrates 25 Years [3] VXRGO Calls for More Workshops and Events to Promote Diversity in Drum and Bass [4] The Jaguar Foundation Introduces Rider Templates to Encourage Fair Billings for Artists [5] Ray Keith on the Importance of Respecting the Cultural and Historical Context of Drum and Bass [6] EQ50 and Drum & Babes: Pushing for Change in the Drum and Bass Scene [7] DJ Flight's Black Herstory Series: Highlighting POC Talent in Drum and Bass [8] The Drum and Bass Community: Navigating the Road to Inclusivity [9] Celebrating Talent, Not Diversity Quotas: The Future of the Drum and Bass Community [10] Highlighting and Educating About the Black Pioneers of Drum and Bass [11] Speaking Out: The Figureheads from the "First Wave" of Drum and Bass [12] Rave Stories: Celebrating the Diversity of the 90s Rave Scene
- As the drum and bass community continues to evolve, it's essential to maintain a lifestyle that promotes education, inclusivity, and respect for its rich history, especially in relation to its connections with Black music, entertainment, and cultural roots.
- In celebrating Black History Month, the drum and bass community can foster a sense of entertainment that authentically reflects the genre's roots by recognizing the contributions of Black artists, nurturing their talents, and embracing diversity and innovation.
