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The Music Is Black: A British Story at V&A East Museum
18/04/2026 - 03/01/2027
The Music Is Black: A British Story at V&A East Museum
18/04/2026 - 03/01/2027
Step inside the first major exhibition at the brand‑new V&A East Museum and experience The Music Is Black: A British Story - a powerful, multi‑sensory journey through over 125 years of Black British music.
Featuring more than 200 objects, including 60 new acquisitions, this landmark exhibition spotlights the artists, creators and communities whose innovation has shaped Britain’s cultural and musical identity. Expect an immersive mix of sound, film, photography, fashion, instruments and personal artefacts that bring untold stories to life.
Both the V&A East Museum and The Music is Black: A British Story open to the public on Saturday 18 April!
What you’ll see
From early pioneers to contemporary trailblazers, the exhibition showcases an extraordinary range of objects and stories, including:
- Winifred Atwell’s piano, used by the first Black artist to achieve a UK No.1
- Jme’s Super Nintendo, where he experimented with music long before Boy Better Know
- Fashion worn by Little Simz, Seal, Dame Shirley Bassey and Skin
- Newly acquired photography of Kemistry & Storm, Mis‑Teeq and Skepta
- Instruments, writings, vinyl, performance wear and artworks from across generations
Across four thematic acts, you’ll move through the origins of Black musical expression, its journey through 20th‑century Britain, the birth of uniquely Black British genres, and the vibrant sounds shaping the UK today - from lovers rock, Brit funk and 2 tone to jungle, drum & bass, UK garage, grime, drill and afrobeats.
Tickets available here
Plan your visit
The exhibition opens Saturday 18 April 2026, with tickets now available. Tickets for students and those under 26 from £10. Full price from £20 and V&A Members enjoy free entry.
Make a day of it by exploring more of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, including its world‑class fitness venues, walking trails and growing food scene.
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