Union Black: Sounds of a Nation

Learn about the project celebrating the powerful influence of Black British Music

By Google Arts & Culture

Illustrations by Paris-Anthony Walker and words by Yaw Owusu

Union Black: Sounds of a Nation - Illustration by Paris Anthony-Walker

Union Black: Introduction Audio from Yaw Owusu
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In partnership with organisations and experts within the Black British music and culture community, we present UNION BLACK. A chapterised content series that celebrates the great contribution the Black British community have made to music and culture in the UK and beyond.

Across five chapters and hundreds of stories, we will jump through time, genre and space to showcase an ode to the people, events and culture that have forever changed our world.

Union Black Chapter 1: Game Changers - Illustration by Paris Anthony-Walker

Union Black: Chapter 1 Audio
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Game Changers

In this chapter, celebrate some of the legendary Black British music creators, industry insiders, music and moments that have transformed the landscape of music, both here and abroad. 
Explore the Game Changers

Union Black Chapter 2: We Run Tings - Illustration by Paris Anthony-Walker

Union Black: Chapter 2 Audio
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We Run Tings

This chapter documents the unique impact and influence of Black British music and culture not just within music, but also on film and entertainment, fashion, language and youth culture on a national and global scale.
Go to We Run Tings

Union Black Chapter 3: Mixing, Migrating, Music - Illustration by Paris Anthony-Walker

Union Black: Chapter 3 Audio
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Mixing, Migrating, Music

Here, you can explore the social and cultural melting pots and migrations that have powered the creation of such influential Black British music, genres and music cultures. 
Explore Mixing, Migrating, Music

Union Black Chapter 4: Express Yourself - Illustration by Paris Anthony-Walker

Union Black: Chapter 4 Audio
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Express Yourself

This chapter shares stories that highlight the pioneering music and movements that have claimed space, triumphantly resisted oppression and driven social and political change.
Go to Express Yourself

Union Black Chapter 5: Today and Tomorrow - Illustration by Paris Anthony-Walker

Union Black: Chapter 5 Audio
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Today and Tomorrow

In this final chapter,  take a look at what Black British music and culture looks like in 2023 – learn where it is heading in the future and who is leading the charge?
Explore Today and Tomorrow

Union Black: Sounds of a Nation - Illustration by Paris Anthony-Walker

Union Black: Conclusion Audio
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We hope 'UNION BLACK: Sounds of a Nation' inspires, entertains and educates you and reaffirms how Black British music has changed the very fabric of music and music culture. It continues to pave the way and change the game on a global scale.

Find the full project here
Credits: Story

We thank every single person and organisation who has helped create this project and helped 'UNION BLACK: Sounds of a Nation' shine a light on some of the greatest cultural creations and cultural exports in this country's history.

Illustrations by Paris Anthony-Walker 
Curation by Yaw Owusu

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
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