Black History Bites

This week, we're diving into the vibrant world of Black literature. Just a month after World Book Day – and you might have caught our fun 'me then vs me now' trend on TikTok, where the BLAM team shared childhood reading memories alongside our current favorites – we've curated a list of must-read books by Black authors. Whether you're looking to build a reading habit, need something for your commute, or want to add to that ever-growing 'To Be Read' pile, we've got something for you. We'll also be highlighting recommendations from fantastic book clubs like TNSReads, insightful BookTok creators such as John Paul, and other essential sources for discovering incredible Black voices in literature. So, let's turn the page and get started!

Black History Bites by BLAM UK brings you powerful insights into Black history, culture, and activism. In this episode, we explore the importance of collective solidarity among Black communities worldwide—past, present, and future. From the Pan-African movement to Black Lives Matter, we highlight how unity has always been our strength in resisting oppression and driving change.

In this episode of Black History Bites, we explore the rich history and enduring significance of Notting Hill Carnival. From its origins as a symbol of Black resistance and resilience, led by activist Claudia Jones, to its role as a celebration of cultural pride and Black joy, we delve into why understanding this history is crucial—especially today. We also discuss the importance of teaching Black British history in schools to preserve the true legacy of events like Notting Hill Carnival for future generations. Tune in to discover why this iconic event is much more than just a parade.

Today's episode celebrates the remarkable achievements of contemporary Black British sports stars! Join us as we explore the backgrounds of household names in boxing like Anthony Joshua, football with Marcus Rashford, track star Dina Asher-Smith, and race car driving with Lewis Hamilton. We also shine a spotlight on rising stars such as Khadijah Mellah, Karé Adenegan and Alice Dearing in horse racing, athletics and swimming, respectively. BLAM acknowledges their historic contributions to sports, the culture, and their inspiring journeys.

Did you know that after Africa, the largest Black population resides in South America? In this episode, we delve into the rich history of Black South Americans—a journey shaped by the dark legacy of slavery and resilience. Discover how communities fought to preserve their culture and heritage across centuries. Explore their profound contributions to global cultural landscapes, influencing beloved cuisines and music worldwide.

In this episode we celebrate the 76th anniversary of the Empire Windrush's 1948 arrival in Britain. We explore the Windrush generation's contributions to post-war Britain, despite facing severe racism and hardships as well as the legacy of the Windrush generation and their impact on Black British Culture.

Join us as we explore the vibrant origins of this unique genre in Addis Ababa, the visionary work of Mulatu Astatke, and the profound themes of innovation, African pride, and cultural preservation that make Ethio-Jazz so captivating. Perfect for anyone looking to discover the rich musical heritage of Ethiopia and the soul-stirring sounds that define Ethio-Jazz.

Black Women vs The Gender Pay Gap

In this podcast, we explore the profound impact of "The Color Purple" by Alice Walker. This seminal work chronicles Celie's journey from oppression to empowerment, resonating deeply with readers worldwide. Through its rich portrayal of Black female experiences and groundbreaking use of language, the novel has sparked vital discussions on intersectionality and social justice. From its Pulitzer Prize-winning acclaim to its influence on cinema and theatre, "The Color Purple" continues to inspire and empower audiences, leaving an indelible mark on our cultural consciousness. Join us as we delve into the enduring legacy of this timeless masterpiece.

In this episode, we explore the issues surrounding zero tolerance policies and its impact on Black children in the UK educational system. We consider the repercussions, and how these policies disproportionately affect Black students. We then propose alternative, more ethical approaches to addressing behaviour in schools!

Discover the forgotten tales of African empires on this week's episode! Journey through the pages of history to uncover the majestic Mali Empire, the legendary Ghana Empire, and the captivating Adal Sultanate Empire. These stories, often overshadowed, illuminate the rich cultural heritage of present-day Mali, Mauritania, Senegal, and Somaliland. Tune in for a captivating exploration of African greatness on Spotify now!

Discover the story of Lovers Rock, a special music style born in 1970s Britain. This episode explores how it came from reggae roots, grew in South London, and became a voice for Black communities. Lovers Rock songs celebrated love, empowered men and women, and provided a safe space away from racism. Join us to learn how this music genre became a symbol of Black joy and love.

In this episode, We explore the history of Jamaican Sound Systems. From their roots in Kingston to their influence on British music, find out how these systems shaped communities and genres!

Welcome to our podcast episode, we are embarking on a journey to explore the intricate interplay of identities and how they shape the experiences of marginalized communities. Our focus today is on the profound concept of intersectionality and its impact on self-care.

Join us on Black History Bites as we delve into the haunting history of Goree Island. This Senegalese island became a pivotal trading post, transporting goods and enslaved people to the Americas, Asia, and Europe. Explore its colonial histories, the sinister Maison des Esclaves, and the heart-wrenching stories of those who endured the transatlantic slave trade.

Explore the creativity of Black British television across six decades in this episode! From groundbreaking shows to cultural milestones, join us as we celebrate the rich history and impact of Black voices on the UK screen!

BLAM UK is thrilled to unveil its groundbreaking two-volume set of books, "Global Black Narratives for the Classroom: Black Britain & Europe (Vol 1)" and “Africa, The Americas and The Caribbean (Vol 2)." Book launch event: 11th December 2023!

In this episode, we explore the beauty and history of black hair, discussing the origins of a variety of hairstyles.

Welcome to our podcast episode, where we delve into the remarkable life of Gladys West, an influential inventor who played a pivotal role in shaping the world of GPS (Global Positioning System). #GladysWest #GPSInventor #Trailblazer #InspiringJourneys

In this episode, we delve into the impact of Y2K aesthetics on the UK Rap scene, showcasing how this trend has gone through a fascinating evolution and adaptation to seamlessly integrate with today's fashion and music landscape.

We have a chat with author Nii Ayikwei Parkes about his upcoming novel Azúcar, the theme of 'home' and being a Black writer in Britain

Learn more about UK's primary Black Theatre company

We look at Black British musicians in the 15th-19th Centuries

We look at how Black music across the world has been used as a form of protest; with a particular look at Samba music in Brazil

We look at the Ancient African kingdom of Kilwa Kisiwani

We look at the life and legacy of culinary griot Vertamae Smart-Grosvenor

We have a chat with author Rosanna Amaka about her new book Rose and the Burma Sky, the Black soldiers of WWII and being a Black author in Britain

We look at the history, impact and legacy of the Caribbean Artists Movement

We look at Saturday Schools in Britain and how they helped to support Caribbean children

Mami Wata, La Sirène, Mama Dlo. These are some of the names given to mermaids around Africa and the Caribbean. We look at the mythology surrounding these creatures

We look at the impact climate change is having on Black countries around the world, and the practices indigenous communities are using to try and combat it

Take a little look at Black art in Britain. It's meaning and history, as well as some of the artists in the scene

In this episode we look at dancehall dances and pay tribute to the late, great Mr Wacky

The home of Black communities since the 1959s, Brixton has a long rich history. Join us as we explore this history and the impact Black people have had on the area

Look at the effects of the climate crisis on Black communities around the world, and the Black Brits campaigning for our voices to be heard

We look at the history of Supplementary Schools in the 60s and the impact they had on Black children

We explore the history of Gumbe music and it's continuation into modern music throughout Western Africa

What is Black British English? Join us as we look at the history, culture and impact of this unique language

Take a look into the unique sounds of Black Britain and their history

African artists are taking the contemporary art world by storm, but in this episode we are going to focus on the beautiful nation of Senegal.

A brief look at the history of grime music and it's influence on popular culture

The Mogadishu sultanate was a sultanate in the southern region of Somali territory that was distinguished in its trading network until it was taken over by the Ajuran Empire in the 13th century. The Ajuran Sultanate was another powerful sultanate that established itself from the early to mid-13th century, until its decline in the early 17th century. They controlled many southern-central regions in Somalia along the Shabelle Valley, in the Mudugh region in the East, along the Kenyan frontier and along the Indian Ocean's coast in the South.

Dapper Dan is both the bright mind behind reworked logos and screen-printed monograms of fashion houses such as Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and MCM for luxury streetwear, as well as the inventor of the process for screen printing onto leather, used in luxury automobile interiors. He currently works with Gucci on their Diversity Council, as well as through an appointment-only atelier in Harlem where he designs independent pieces as well as capsule collections.

At BLAM UK we firmly believe in giving people their flowers while they're still alive to enjoy them! It is why we are always so happy to talk about a fashion stylist icon such as Misa Hylton.

What's the point of supporting Black business? A business is a business right, it doesn't matter who it's owned by. Wrong! As Black people it's imperative that we support our own and this episode will tell you why.

The Haitian Revolution was instrumental in triggering the collapse of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and the abolition of slavery around the world. Listen to learn more about the individuals involved and the catalyst for the Revolution.

Imagine knowing a song your whole life, then finding out it's actually a cover. Welcome to the life of a Jamaican child! Discover covers and remixes you probably didn't even know existed.

This week on Black History Bites, we are discussing the history of Black women sporting long acrylic nails. Did you know that acrylic nails were invented in the 1950's? 1954 was the year in which Fred Slack, a dentist, broke his fingernail at work and decided to use dental products to create a temporary replacement. He later went on to create a company called ‘Patti Nails' with his brother making his invention public and available to the world. Unfortunately, the shadows of cultural appropriation have aided in the erasure of this historic Black female cultural contribution.

This week on Black History Bites, we are learning about the cultural and religious importance of the New Yam Festival in Western Africa. The New Yam Festival is celebrated throughout the whole of Africa, but it is celebrated the most in Nigeria and Ghana.

Food is a huge deal to Black American culture in the US! In today's episode, we'll be looking at the idea of culinary retention from Africa as enslaved Africans were taken and brought to the United States. Foods such as gumbo, hot sauce, and Juneteenth specials have strong historical ties to the Motherland, presenting the social collectivity of the diaspora!

Today we're exploring how African food traditions are closely linked to Afro-Latinx and Caribbean cuisine. Looking at foods such as rice and peas and the popular Brazilian food acaraje. Its strongly advised that you don't listen to this episode on an empty stomach!