Writing on the Wall to celebrate history of Liverpool's soundsystem culture

For this year’s Black History Month, Writing on the Wall have begun a project exploring the history of soundsystem culture in Liverpool, culminating in an evening of discussion, deejays and dancing – in the heart of Liverpool 8 – Saturday November 23 at Toxteth Library.

Through the 1970s and 80s, the streets of Liverpool 8 reverberated with music played from powerful homemade sound systems, providing the soundtrack and force behind ‘Blues’ or ‘Shebeens’ – all night parties in available local spaces; organised by the people, for the people. Although reduced in number, blues clubs remained until the 90’s and continued to have a profound effect on the city’s Black music scene.

Join Writing on the Wall in remembering and celebrating the impact and legacy of sound system culture in Liverpool, with an evening of discussion, deejays and dancing, on Saturday 23 November – at Toxteth Library.

The evening will commence with a panel discussion hosted by WoW Co-Director Madeline Heneghan, and feature contributions from some of the key players from the times – including sound system operators, deejays, dancers and organisers – as well as Dr Mykaell Riley, formerly of Steel Pulse and now an important voice for Britain’s Black music legacy.

Following an opportunity for audience members to join in the discussion, the evening will become a celebration in all senses of the word – featuring music from the original Strugglers’ Sound System – from the days of The Frontline – and local rising star Sticky Dub.

Since its emergence in the UK during the 1950s, sound system culture has had a profound influence on British musical history. Initially serving as a cultural hub for early Caribbean communities, sound systems played a crucial role in shaping the experiences of Black Britons and their resistance to racism.

The history of sound systems is also a story of joy and of community coming together, which, in the current climate, is something that needs to be remembered, and celebrated. Liverpool has a rich history of sound system culture, although one that has not had the attention or documentary interest of places such as London or Bristol. Writing on the Wall want to hear your stories and preserve this crucial musical heritage.

This project is a Liverpool response to the Echoes From the Islands and Beyond the Bassline installations that are currently on display in Toxteth Library. In partnership with Whispered Tales and Liverpool City Council and funded by Liverpool City Council UKSPF and Arts Council England as part of Liverpool’s Black History Month celebrations.