Unveiling Untold Black Music History: Fringe Events Ignite Joy in MOBO Week
Children’s voices echoed through The Whitworth this week as Trinity Gospel Choir opened the Black Sound Gala. The evening marked the start of Manchester’s MOBO Fringe Week and celebrated Black music, culture and creative excellence.
The Black Sound Gala and its producers
The gala was co-produced by Adeola Adelakun and her sister Ronke Jane Adelakun. Adeola works as a creative producer with Black Creative Trailblazers, a social enterprise that amplifies Black voices through showcases and workshops.
The programme featured a wide range of performers. Highlights included opera singer Sinead D’Abreu Hayling, African drummer Kayode Bamgbose, dancers ASH x Yin Yang, spoken-word artist Saf S2e and performer Lekoumson.
Giving young people a visible future in the arts
Trinity Gospel Choir represented Trinity High School in Hulme. The group performed You Gotta Be by Des’ree, led by choir leader Carla Jane, and was accompanied by Director of Music Katrina Madden.
Madden says rehearsals regularly include anti-bullying and anti-racism material. Pupils also work with local musicians to learn about the community and the musical traditions present in Manchester.
Community and representation
Adeola emphasised the importance of seeing successful Black creatives at work. She pointed to the nearby Moss Side area and said visible role models help young people imagine careers in the arts.
The gala aimed to show the variety of Black music in Manchester, from jazz and opera to Afrobeats. Organisers wanted audiences to understand that Black music is not a monolith.
Civic support and the wider MOBO moment
The event was opened by Mayor Andy Burnham and Manchester Council leader Bev Craig. Craig has helped bring major music events, including The BRITs and the MOBOs, to the city.
This year the MOBOs will take place in Manchester for the first time in its 30-year history. Fringe events during MOBO Week have provided platforms for musicians, dancers, poets, hairdressers and stylists.
Economic contributions and ongoing challenges
New figures from UK Music show Black music accounted for 80% of the UK’s recorded music revenue over the past three decades. The report values that contribution at £24.5 billion of a £30.0 billion total.
Adeola warned that many Black creatives still miss out on fair payment and recognition. Black Creative Trailblazers plans to continue helping artists learn how to price their work and claim their financial worth.
Legacy and next steps
Organisers described the gala as joyous and energising. Fringe events continue to ignite joy, broaden audiences and play a role in unveiling untold chapters of Black music history across the city.
As MOBO Week unfolds, local groups pledge to sustain opportunities long after the awards leave. They aim to ensure that Manchester’s diverse musical legacy gains proper recognition and reward.
