A new documentary and website delve into the cultural and social significance of England’s independent record shops that specialised in Black music. Tracing their impact through the decades, the project highlights the crucial role these stores played in shaping UK culture, fostering musical innovation, and building vibrant communities.

Part of a wider project by the same name: The Record Store & Black Music: England’s Tastemakers, which also saw the release of a book, podcast and educational resource, the documentary and accompanying website have been produced by Simon Phillips, and features contributions from Jazzie B, Trevor Nelson MBE, Marcia Carr, Claudia Wilson, Ammo Talwar MBE, DJ SS, DJ Rap, DJ Spoony, Wookie, Jeff Smith, Simon Dunmore as well as Carol Leeming MBE. 

Now available on the newly launched project website, www.theblackmusicrecordshop.co.uk, the documentary is accompanied by a rich collection of additional interviews, images, and firsthand insights from those who worked and shopped in these iconic record stores. Uncovering the Black, African, and Caribbean experiences at the heart of these spaces, the website serves as a dedicated hub for the research and stories that bring this cultural legacy to life.

Project organisers 2Funky Arts, itself grew from 2Funky Records (1997-2012) – an independent music store in Leicester, with international reach, that specialised in Black music. 2Funky Arts Director Vijay Mistry said: “This film and website are the culmination of research from across the South, North and Midlands. It’s a unique opportunity to experience this aspect of Black history in all its vibrancy. We have been overwhelmed by the positive response to the documentary, at screenings in all regions. It’s been an opportunity for people to reminisce and celebrate their own memories.”

The project has been made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players. It has been rolled out by 2Funky Arts (Leicester), in partnership with Sound/Image Research Centre (University of Greenwich, London), Brighter Sound (Manchester) and music:defined.