Peckham Space will be transformed into an ‘open archive’ mapping objects which represent and explore the personal stories which comprise the fascinating history of the influence and evolution of black music in South London. Welcoming contributions from the public, this archive will include items such as books, magazines, concert tickets, posters, stories, records and CDs gathered and displayed with the reverence of museum pieces. Asante’s selected objects highlighting seminal moments in this history will share the same platform as visitors’ objects and stories depicting their own experiences through music and memorabilia.

One of the founding items of the South London Black Music Archive is a ‘limited edition’ vinyl specially produced for the project as a result of the artist’s collaboration with young people from the Leaders of Tomorrow (LOT) mentoring programme.

This artwork was created in affiliation with Regeneration & Community Partnerships, Tate Modern with an exclusive record sleeve by graphic design collective Åbäke. It features Asante’s own take on the BBC’s ‘inheritance tracks’ for which members of LOT were asked to contribute songs that inspire them. Songs chosen include tracks by Michael Jackson, Edvard Grieg, Nigerian singer Prince Nico Mbarga, Hard Times from Sierra Leone and Bob Dylan. These are represented as a soundscape alongside recordings of the young people telling the stories and explaining their selections.

Barby Asante said: “The influence of black music on the development on popular music is often overlooked. Black music has also played a significant role in the development of British culture from the 1950's and this is a great opportunity to provide a platform for people to consider the significance of this cultural activity on their lives.”

LOT member Mayowa Sofekun said of a track she has contributed to the project: “I have chosen Sweet Mother as my inheritance track as it is associated with some of my oldest memories as a child. When the song is played at all occasions whether it be a party, wedding, or even a funeral, everybody, both young and old will get up to dance and thank their mothers.“