Musical Truth: A Musical History of Modern Black Britain in 28 Songs

Review Engaging and accomplished... Boakye's text, enriched by Smart's striking images, is perfectly judged for young readers ― GuardianJeffrey Boakye is a special talent and Musical Truth is a special book... [it] deserves to be read widely by young people ― Books for KeepsA fascinating read ― The Week JuniorA fantastic read... boasting superb illustration from Ngadi Smart ― Clash MagazineThorough and inspiring... Boakye's knowledge and passion shines through... Not just essential reading for older children and teens (and adults!) but essential listening too. ― BookTrustFrom Kitch's Windrush optimism to Jords' visceral defiance via John Barnes' rap, this clever and accessible book connects the dots of UK Black history through music. It made me linger on my own memories of these songs and widen my understanding of my family's experiences. ― Patrice Lawrence, author of Eight Pieces of Silva and OrangeboyEye-opening and heart-breaking but so joyous and hopeful... needs to be in every home, classroom and library ― Rashmi Sirdeshpande, author of How to Change the WorldI loved it, took me down yesteryear! ― Alex Wheatle, author of Crongton Knights and Cane WarriorsJeffrey Boakye once again proves himself to be a critical authority on the chronicling of British cultural history. Musical Truth is a powerful and very entertaining read ― Nels Abbey, author of Think Like a White ManI think it's really poignant, I think it's really important and I think it's really accessible to be able to talk about these things via music...A bold project... I feel very moved by it ― Gemma Cairney, Television and Radio PresenterAn incredible piece of work ― Kofi Smiles, BBC Radio PresenterA unique book that could help today's pupils engage with not just the music of their parents and grandparents, but their histories, experiences and stories. Accessible, lively and informative ― School Reading ListFrom calypso to pop, reggae to grime, this ground-breaking musical journey through post-war Black British history is a sensory feast for your eyes and ears that will also deeply touch your soul ― Candid CocoaA book that will inform, educate, encourage and remind everybody of the huge and vital contribution that Black people have made and continue to make to British culture ― Just Read ItA fitting musical tribute to Black and British history. ― Writers Mosaic Product Description Music can carry the stories of history like a message in a bottle.Lord Kitchener, Neneh Cherry, Smiley Culture, Stormzy . . . Groundbreaking musicians whose songs have changed the world. But how? This exhilarating playlist tracks some of the key shifts in modern British history, and explores the emotional impact of 28 songs and the artists who performed them.This book redefines British history, the Empire and postcolonialism, and will invite you to think again about the narratives and key moments in history that you have been taught up to now.Thrilling, urgent, entertaining and thought-provoking, this beautifully illustrated companion to modern black music is a revelation and a delight. Book Description This extraordinary retelling of black British history will dazzle readers of all ages. About the Author Jeffrey Boakye is an author, broadcaster, educator and journalist originally from Brixton, London. He has a particular interest in issues surrounding education, race and popular culture. His books include Hold Tight, Black, Listed and Musical Truth: A Musical History of Modern Black Britain in 28 Songs. He is also the co-author of What is Masculinity? Why Does it Matter? And Other Big Questions. Jeffrey has four books upcoming, including: I Heard What You Said (June 2022), Musical World (2023), and Kofi and the Rap Battle Summer (2023). Jeffrey has contributed articles and comment pieces to publications including the Guardian, the Financial Times and the Royal Society of Arts Journal. He is also co-host of BBC Radio 4's Add to Playlist with Cerys Matt