“Black Sound Gala Celebrates Mancunian Musical Heritage”
Last Thursday, Black Creative Trailblazers hosted a red-carpet Black Sound Gala in Manchester. The event celebrated Black music, culture and creative excellence.
Event highlights
The gala showcased a broad range of genres. Organisers aimed to underline the city’s Mancunian musical heritage.
- Sinead D’Abreu Hayling — opera singer.
- Kayode Bamgbose — African drummer.
- ASH x Yin Yang — dance collective.
- Saf S2e — spoken word artist.
- Trinity Gospel Choir, led by Carla Jane.
Performances ranged from opera and jazz to Afrobeats and spoken word. The programme stressed diversity in Black music.
Organisers and goals
Sisters Adeola and Ronke Jane Adelakun run Black Creative Trailblazers. Their social enterprise supports Black creatives through showcases and workshops.
The group focuses on amplifying Black voices and creating sustainable opportunities. They also provide practical business advice about pricing and contracts.
Local creatives and recognition
Ndey Sallah owns Crowned by N.S. salon on Princess Road. She has run the business since she was 18.
The salon specialises in Black and afro hair. Ndey said visibility and credit for creative work remain important.
Connection to the MOBOs and community work
The MOBO Awards arrive at Co-op Live for the first time in its 30-year history. The ceremony is scheduled for 26 March 2026.
The MOBOs are described as Europe’s largest celebration of Black music and culture. FLO is listed among the performers at the awards.
Niamos Centre and MOBO Fringe
The Niamos Centre received volunteer-led refurbishment ahead of MOBO Fringe events. Volunteers cleaned and repainted the historic venue.
Hundreds attended MOBO Fringe x Studio 88 showcases. Cleopatra, the 1990s girl group, headlined a recent show.
Organiser Darrius Stewart, son of the late Barrington Stewart, said the focus was on bringing MOBOs to local communities.
Niamos once hosted Nina Simone and now aims to reconnect with the city’s musical roots.
Legacy and next steps
The gala organisers said their work will continue after the MOBOs leave Manchester. They plan further events and training for local creatives.
Filmogaz.com visited Moss Side and reported on how the city’s Black creative community is reshaping its identity. The gala was part of that wider effort.
