A pioneering artist and musician, Jazzie B has played a significant role in the British-Carribean art scene since he was 13. From the world of sound systems, to the Grammy award winning ensemble Soul II Soul which became deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the UK with hits like “Keep On Moving” and “Back To Life” he chronicled his experience in the book A Happy Face, a Thumpin’ Bass for a Loving Race. Join us for a talk with with Jazzie B and Cadence Weapon that touches upon Jazzie's unique, and exceptional experience. 

Mark the opening of Life Between Islands: British-Caribbean Art 1950s - Now on Friday, December 8 with a live set by Jazzie B. 

Jazzie B is a British DJ and music producer. He is the founder of the iconic, Grammy award winning band Soul II Soul and has produced and remixed tracks for many major recording artists. Born in London, UK, to parents of Antiguan descent, in recognition for his many contributions to British culture — his music, a clothing line, a record shop, radio shows on pirate station Kiss FM and for the BBC — in 2008 he was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). 

Cadence Weapon is the Edmonton-born, Toronto-based rapper, producer, writer, poet, and activist Rollie Pemberton. Throughout his work, this multidisciplinary artist aims to preserve and resurrect Black cultural memory by forging connections between personal, local, and collective histories. Pemberton started rapping at age 13, cutting his teeth performing live with his uncle’s funk band. His 2005 debut album Breaking Kayfabe, was the first of five albums that have been nominated for the Polaris Music Prize, which he won in 2021 for his fifth and latest album, Parallel World. On the road, Pemberton’s opened for the likes of Public Enemy, De La Soul, Mos Def, Kool Keith, Busdriver, Questlove, and others. His debut book, “Bedroom Rapper” a personal account of his life in music as an artist, critic, and fan amid a changing digital landscape, was released in early 2022 (McClelland & Stewart).