Tuesday 13th October 2026 — The Gigantic Guide
Black History Month runs throughout October in the UK, and is an annual celebration that recognises the achievements and lasting impact of Black people through the artistic, cultural and political contributions that have influenced communities, history and society.
This guide brings together Black artists, writers and performers who sit at the heart of the culture they have shaped through their craft, from dancefloor pioneers and reggae greats to soul singers, jazz musicians, poets, comedians and historians, alongside theatre and dance productions exploring Black stories and experiences.
This year’s theme, “Honouring Our Communities”, highlights the people that shape and sustain Black communities across the UK.
Raves, Dancefloors and Club Culture
Jungle, drum and bass, UK garage, Brit-funk and house: dance music built in Black communities, and the nights carrying it on.
Four featured · Four more to explore
ELECTRONIC/JUNGLE
NOVEMBER 2026 
CAMBRIDGE & BRIGHTONGoldie is one of the defining figures in UK jungle and drum and bass, making music that was influenced by his early career as a breakdancer. Venturing into music, Goldie became a household name and is celebrated for his revolutionary approach to dance music by fusing breakbeats and jungle together.
Where to start
AlbumRING OF SATURN
Track“INNER CITY LIFE”
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ELECTRONIC/DRUM AND BASS
JUNE 2027 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
One of the pioneers of the UK drum and bass scene, Roni Size changed the game with the cutting-edge fusion of drum and bass with jazz, soul, funk, and live instrumentation.
Celebrating 30 years of the iconic debut album, New Forms, this tour will be showcasing the very best of Black British drum and bass.
Where to start
AlbumNEW FORMS
Track"BROWN PAPER BAG"
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R&B/GARAGE
MAY 2027 BRIGHTON & BIRMINGHAM
Craig David has been a pivotal figure in pop and R&B scenes in the UK ever since his debut album, Born To Do It, blending R&B and garage with pop sensibilities and his iconic, smooth vocals.
His upcoming shows in Brighton and Birmingham are celebrating this lightning-in-a-bottle debut, acting as a perfect reminder to fans that the legacy of this album is not to be understated.
Where to start
AlbumBORN TO DO IT
Track"7 DAYS"
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ELECTRONIC/DANCEHALL
FRIDAY 13TH NOVEMBER 2026 THE JAZZ CAFE, LONDON
The joy of Nyege Nyege, Africa's annual underground dance festival, is being brought to London for an evening of dancing and sticky floors. The festival is renowned for its high-energy atmosphere, bringing the sounds of afro-house, dancehall, techno, as well as traditional Gqom and Kuduro rhythms.
Celebrating the rich heritage of African dance music, Nyege Nyege's London takeover will be a way of connecting with the diaspora's underground frequencies for one huge dance party.
Where to start
PLAYLISTNYEGE NYEGE TAPES - BACK CATALOG
Track"DIDI AT NIGHT"
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More to explore in Raves, Dancefloors and Club Culture
Talks and Spoken Word
Historians, comedians, poets and storytellers: nights to listen, laugh and learn.
Four featured
TALK/HISTORY
NOVEMBER 2026 - JUNE 2027 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
David Olusoga is a critically acclaimed author, broadcaster, and historian, best known for covering topics such as the legacies of colonialism and Black British history.
On tour, David Olusoga brings history to life with his passionate and engaging delivery, captivating audiences as one of Britain’s foremost historians.
Before you go
readBLACK AND BRITISH: A FORGOTTEN HISTORY
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POETRY/SPOKEN WORD
NOVEMBER 2026 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
Joshua Idehen is making waves in the poetry and music scene, pairing his poignant spoken word with jazz and ambient house beats.
His words often explore the Black experience alongside joyful, life-affirming poetry, which makes his live shows both moving and uplifting.
Before you go
Read SONGBOOK
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COMEDY
FEBRUARY - MAY 2027 SHEFFIELD & YORK
Sophie Duker is an award-winning British comedian, writer, and Taskmaster champion known for her bold, irreverent humour and sharp observations on race, gender, and modern life. As a Black British woman carving out space in comedy, she brings an important perspective to Black History Month, challenging stereotypes and celebrating the power of diverse voices on stage.
Her new tour, Hot Beef Injection, promises provocative punchlines, fearless social commentary, and gloriously subversive takes on sex, relationships, and masculinity.
Before you go
ListenOBSESSED WITH... I MAY DESTROY YOU
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AN EVENING WITH
SATURDAY 13TH MARCH 2027 ST MARY’S CHAMBERS, ROSSENDALE
Frank Bruno MBE is the former Heavyweight Champion of the World, who made a career on his devastating punching power and mental resilience, having fought some of the world's greatest fighters.
He is also a deeply popular media personality, cherished for his openness about mental health and his own personal struggles. An Evening with Frank Bruno MBE will see him discuss candidly his decorated career and personal challenges, inspiring generations to come.
Before you go
ReadFRANK: FIGHTING BACK
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Black History Month 2026: Honouring Our Communities
This year’s UK Black History Month theme is “Honouring Our Communities”, which recognises “the individuals whose everyday contributions shape, support and sustain Black life across the United Kingdom”.
As the official campaign puts it: “There is no single story of Black Britain. There are many communities, many experiences and many journeys.” With that in mind, this guide brings together events spanning different musical traditions, cultural movements and creative voices, from the influence of Jamaican sound system culture on British music to the artists shaping the London jazz scene and those drawing on the wider African diaspora.
Reggae, Dub and Lovers Rock
Roots, dub, ska and lovers rock: Jamaican sound system culture and the British scene it helped build.
Four featured · Four more to explore
REGGAE/SKA
OCTOBER 2026 - DECEMBER 2027 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
The Dualers are one of the UK's most beloved ska and reggae bands, who rose from busking in the streets of South East London to selling out countless arena tours with their sun-soaked energy.
Founding members and brothers Si and Tyber Cranstoun grew up surrounded by soul, ska and reggae music, and The Dualers' music stays true to their Jamaican and Sierra Leonean heritage. The Summer Never Ends Tour will bring the uplifting spirit of reggae across the country.
Where to start
AlbumVOICES FROM THE SUN
Track"RED LIGHT"
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DUB
FEBRUARY 2027 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
Scientist draws his name from a nickname given to him by the legendary producer, King Tubby, remarking on his exceptional mixing skills. True to his namesake, Scientist revolutionised the dub genre in the 80s.
His innovative techniques on the mixing desk have brought dub to audiences worldwide, and this run of shows will continue to display his technological and musical prowess to recreate the magic of his 1981 album, Scientist Rids the World of the Evil Curse of the Vampires.
Where to start
AlbumINTRODUCING THE SCIENTIST
Track"TAXI TO BALTIMORE"
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DANCEHALL
FRIDAY 12TH MARCH 2027 ELECTRIC BRIXTON, LONDON
Jahmiel is a dancehall and reggae artist who rose to fame after his single, "Gain The World" gained attention for its conscious lyricism about materialism and loyalty, with fans being introduced to his soulful, heartfelt storytelling with a message-driven approach.
Any Jahmiel show is celebrated for its sense of positivity, with themes of resilience and spirituality running throughout.
Where to start
AlbumLEGEND
Track"U ME LOVE"
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LOVERS ROCk
NOVEMBER 2026 - FEBRUARY 2027 BIRMINGHAM & LONDON
The Queens of Lovers Rock, Janet Kay and Carroll Thompson, are pioneering singers whose timeless hits "Silly Games" and "I'm So Sorry" made history in British reggae.
Trailblazers for Black British women in music, they remain influential figures in the story of the UK’s reggae and lovers rock heritage.
Where to start
AlbumSO AMAZING / HOPELESSLY IN LOVE
Track"SILLY GAMES" / "I'M SO SORRY"
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More to explore in Reggae, Dub and Lovers Rock
On Stage
Theatre, dance and live performance telling Black stories on UK stages.
Four featured · Two more to explore
MUSICAL THEATRE
SATURDAY 31ST OCTOBER 2026 LONDON PALLADIUM
Tony and Grammy Award-winning star Leslie Odom, Jr. brings an unforgettable evening of music, storytelling, and beloved Hamilton favourites to the London Palladium.
Featuring soulful renditions of American Songbook classics, reimagined pop favourites, and musical theatre hits, this captivating concert showcases his extraordinary vocals, magnetic stage presence, and heartfelt storytelling.
Where to start
AlbumWHEN A CROONER DIES
Track"ALEXANDER HAMILTON"
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COMEDY
OCTOBER 2026 MARYLEBONE THEATRE, LONDON
This modern-day adaptation of Molière’s satirical play transports the action to a Nigerian-Jamaican household. It is a raucous comedy that is full of joy and wit.
It is over-the-top, outrageous, and has been described as "an affectionate love letter to the sometimes contrasting traditions and beliefs of African and Caribbean families." Expect something fresh, fun, and deeply entertaining.
What the reviews say
“AN ENJOYABLE, KNOCKABOUT TAKE ON A CLASSIC”
THE LONDON STANDARD · ★ ★ ★
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DANCE THEATRE
NOVEMBER 2026 - JANUARY 2027 SADLER'S WELLS EAST, LONDON
A hip-hop reimagining of the beloved Christmas classic, Ebony Scrooge follows a powerful Black fashion entrepreneur who seeks to reconnect with her Caribbean roots.
This epic of dance-theatre is a celebration of Black creativity and heritage, blending comedy, dance and storytelling.
What the reviews say
"THIS IS A PRODUCTION THAT IS HEARTFELT, ENERGETIC, AND UNEXPECTED."
SALTERTON ARTS REVIEW · ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
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MUSICAL
OCTOBER 2026 - OCTOBER 2027 VICTORIA PALACE THEATRE, LONDON
One of the most cherished musicals of all time, Hamilton changed the musical theatre zeitgeist with its groundbreaking adaptation of Alexander Hamilton's journey to becoming one of America's Founding Fathers, by celebrating the diversity of America's population.
Not only does it tell a story of American history, but it does so whilst highlighting the power of representation in theatre.
What the reviews say
"A THOROUGHLY ENJOYABLE AND KNOWLEDGEABLE PERFORMANCE. THE SINGING WAS WORLD CLASS."
ALAN GLENNIE · ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
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More to explore in On Stage
Africa and the Diaspora
From Congolese rumba and Ghanaian rap to Tanzanian song and London Afro-rock: the sounds of a continent and its communities here.
Six featured · Six more to explore
CONGOLESE RUMBA/R&B
SATURDAY 24TH OCTOBER 2026 THE O2 ARENA, LONDON
Fally Ipupa is one of Africa's most influential artists, bringing Congolese rumba music to a global audience and showcasing his talent and vibrancy to the world. His stunning live shows are praised for their connection to his roots, his musicianship, and for blending traditional sounds with R&B and pop.
His 20 Years of Career Celebration show in London is sure to be a career highlight.
Where to start
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RAP/AFROBEATS
SATURDAY 6TH MARCH 2027 THE O2 ARENA, LONDON
Created by Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie, Rapperholic is Ghana's premier hip-hop concert series. What began as a one-night celebration of his album with the same name, is now one of Africa's biggest and most influential live music events.
Rapperholic UK has one goal in mind: to bring together fans from all corners in a celebration of rap, Afrobeats and contemporary African music.
Where to start
AlbumRAPPERHOLIC
Track"PAIN KILLER"
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GHANAIAN RAP/AFROBEATS
SATURDAY 30TH JANUARY 2027 ELECTRIC BRIXTON, LONDON
Ghanaian rapper and singer Kwesi Arthur brings a distinctive blend of hip-hop, Afrobeats, and contemporary African storytelling to the stage.
As a leading voice of a new generation of Ghanaian artists, he represents the creativity, ambition, and global influence of African youth culture.
Where to start
AlbumSON OF JACOB
Track"POWER HOUSE"
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ELECTRONIC AFRO-FUSION
FRIDAY 13TH NOVEMBER 2026 FIRTH HALL, SHEFFIELD
Tanzanian duo The Zawose Queens celebrate the rich musical heritage of the Gogo people through powerful vocals, traditional instruments, and contemporary rhythms.
As women bringing their family’s musical traditions to the forefront, they are helping preserve East African cultural heritage while championing greater visibility for women in traditional music.
Where to start
AlbumMAISHA
Track"MLONJE: VOICES JOINED"
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Xhosa folk/African soul
THURSDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2026 UNION CHAPEL, LONDON
South African singer-songwriter Bongeziwe Mabandla creates deeply moving music that blends Xhosa-language vocals, folk, and contemporary soul.
Rooted in Black consciousness and cultural identity, his artistry celebrates the richness of South African heritage and the power of music to reconnect people with their roots.
Where to start
AlbumMANGALISO
Track"JIKELEZA"
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AFROBEAT/DISCO
OCTOBER 2026 - MAY 2027 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
Ibibio Sound Machine draw inspiration from the rich music culture of West Africa, combining Ibibio rhythms with Afrobeat, disco and funk. Coupled with the dynamic vocals of frontwoman Eno Williams, their music is deeply appealing to a diverse audience with its effortless danceability.
Bringing the taste of West African music to stages across the UK, Ibibio Sound Machine embrace tradition and culture whilst adding their own contemporary spin. The Chopping Mountain tour will spread the joy of Ibibio grooves to fans both old and new.
Where to start
AlbumELECTRICITY
Track"CONCEPT OF LOVE"
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More to explore in Africa and the Diaspora
Soul, R&B and Blues
From the pioneers of British soul to the singers and songwriters writing the next chapter.
Six featured · 16 more to explore
INDIE/R&B
TUESDAY 20TH OCTOBER 2026 O2 ACADEMY BRIXTON, LONDON
Arlo Parks is beloved for her gentle and emotionally vulnerable songs that blend her poetry with deep human connection. She has transcended genres, with her influences spanning pop, indie-folk and R&B, and her rich lyrical content spanning from mental health, queer identity, emotional experiences and beyond.
Her music is raw, honest and tender, making it deeply meaningful for both new and old fans alike. The Desire World Tour will see her perform a huge hometown show in London, in what will be a celebration of all things Arlo.
Where to start
AlbumCOLLAPSED IN SUNBEAMS
Track“BLACK DOG”
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INDIE/POP
MONDAY 26TH OCTOBER 2026 O2 ACADEMY2 BIRMINGHAM
Rachel Chinouriri is a rapidly-rising star in the UK indie scene, following her UK Top 20 Album What A Devastating Turn of Events, which not only introduces the listener to her dreamy vocals and clear Britpop influences, but is also a compelling account of Black working class life in the UK.
To celebrate the upcoming release of her hotly-anticipated new album, I think I spoke too soon, Rachel Chinouriri will be performing the record as well as hosting a Q&A session, meaning that fans can ask her about her art, her experiences and her influences on her music.
Where to start
AlbumWHAT A DEVASTATING TURN OF EVENTS
Track“ONE SONG AWAY FROM CRYING”
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SOUL/R&B
DECEMBER 2026 LONDON & MANCHESTER
Sekou is the youngest-ever nominee for the BRITS Rising Star Award for his rich baritone, and is one of the UK's brightest new voices in the soul scene.
After selling out multiple tours, Sekou is back on the road to deliver his gospel-influenced sound to a generation of new fans who are keen to get inspired by the vibrant world of UK soul music.
Where to start
EPIN A WORLD WE DON'T BELONG
Track“DANGEROUS LOVER”
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SOUL
OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2026 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
Jalen Ngonda is a rising soul artist whose rich vocals and timeless sound draw inspiration from the legendary Black American soul traditions of Motown.
By bringing classic soul influences to a new generation, he honours the enduring legacy of Black musical innovation and its continuing influence on contemporary music.
Where to start
AlbumDOCTRINE OF LOVE
Track"COME AROUND AND LOVE ME"
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SOUL/JAZZ
WEDNESDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2026 UNION CHAPEL, LONDON
Norwegian-Brazilian singer, songwriter, and producer Charlotte Dos Santos blends jazz, soul, samba, and bossa nova into a distinctive, boundary-crossing sound.
Celebrating her Brazilian heritage through contemporary music, she highlights the richness of the African diaspora’s influence on global musical traditions.
Where to start
AlbumCLEO
Track"RED CLAY"
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SOUL/R&B
NOVEMBER 2026 MANCHESTER & LONDON
New York-based sibling group Infinity Song captivate audiences with dreamy harmonies, soulful melodies, and a blend of soft rock, gospel, and R&B.
Rooted in Black musical traditions, they are expanding the representation of Black artists in alternative music while carrying the legacy of family-led vocal groups into a new generation.
Where to start
AlbumMISS MICHIGAN
Track"HURRICANE"
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More to explore in Soul, R&B and Blues
BILAL
Wednesday 9th December 2026
Islington Assembly Hall, London
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Jazz and Hip-Hop
Spiritual jazz, the London jazz scene and the rappers who share its stages.
Four featured · 11 more to explore
INDUSTRIAL HIP-HOP/EXPERIMENTAL RAP
FRIDAY 26TH FEBRUARY 2027 O2 ACADEMY BRIXTON, LONDON
JPEGMAFIA is a trailblazer in the alternative rap scene, coupling his effortless flow with his tight production skills. His industrial hip-hop sound often features rich, scathing lyrical content, addressing systemic racism, police brutality, capitalism, conscription and beyond.
The Experimental Rap Tour is exactly what it says on the tin: with JPEGMAFIA'S unique production style providing the perfect background for his potent social commentary, making his music deeply political as well as an exploration of different sonic threads.
Where to start
AlbumI LAY DOWN MY LIFE FOR YOU
Track"BALD!"
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ALT R&B/jAZZ
WEDNESDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2026 COLOURS, LONDON
Montreal-based singer and songwriter Magi Merlin fuses alternative R&B, electronic music, and experimental pop into a bold, genre-defying sound.
As part of a new wave of Black artists reshaping contemporary music, she challenges conventions and creates space for fresh expressions of Black identity and creativity. Expect an adventurous live set full of experimental pop, electronic textures, and alternative R&B.
Where to start
AlbumGONE GIRL
Track"BE EASY"
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ALT SOUL/JAZZ
SUNDAY 15TH NOVEMBER 2026 UNION CHAPEL, LONDON
Acclaimed musician, songwriter, and producer Dave Okumu has helped shape the sound of British alternative music through his work with The Invisible and collaborations with artists including Grace Jones and Adele.
Of Kenyan heritage, his innovative approach to production and genre-blending celebrates the creative influence of the African diaspora on contemporary British music. Joined by an exceptional collective of musicians and a 20-piece choir, his upcoming DVTN performance will celebrate the revolutionary sounds of musical icons from Nina Simone and Sly Stone to D’Angelo and Kendrick Lamar.
Where to start
AlbumSKY BLUE ROOM
Track"BROTHER"
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RAP/JAZZ RAP
THURSDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2026 ISLINGTON ASSEMBLY HALL, LONDON
North West London rapper Namesbliss brings together grime, UK rap, jazz influences, and sharp, socially conscious storytelling.
Emerging from the capital’s vibrant Black music scene, he represents a new generation of British MCs using lyrical creativity and community-minded expression to shape the future of UK hip-hop. Audiences can look forward to sharp lyricism, inventive flows, and an energetic showcase of contemporary UK rap.
Where to start
AlbumWHERE'S BLISS?
Track"INIESTA FLOW"
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More to explore in Jazz and Hip-Hop
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is Black History Month in the UK?
Black History Month runs throughout October in the UK. In the US and Canada, it takes place in February.
Why is Black History Month in October in the UK?
The first UK Black History Month began on Thursday 1st October 1987 in London, developed through the Greater London Council’s Ethnic Minorities Unit, with Akyaaba Addai-Sebo a driving force behind it. October was chosen partly because it marks the start of the school year, and the organisers deliberately picked a different month from the US so the UK celebration could have its own identity.
What is the Black History Month 2026 theme?
The UK theme for 2026 is “Honouring Our Communities”, which recognises “the individuals whose everyday contributions shape, support and sustain Black life across the United Kingdom.”
Which Black artists are touring the UK?
This guide includes jungle and drum and bass pioneers Goldie and Roni Size, reggae great Horace Andy, Congolese rumba star Fally Ipupa, Sarkodie’s Rapperholic at The O2 arena, plus Arlo Parks, Sekou, Craig David, JPEGMAFIA and Shabaka, with dozens more across each section.
Are there Black History Month events beyond gigs?
Yes. Our Talks and Spoken Word section features historian David Olusoga, poet Joshua Idehen, comedian Sophie Duker and former world heavyweight champion Frank Bruno MBE. On Stage covers theatre and dance, including Ebony Scrooge at Sadler’s Wells East.
Are these events only on in October?
No. Many of the shows in this guide run through the rest of 2026 and into 2027. Black History Month is a starting point, not a cut-off, so there’s plenty to see all year round.
How do I find out about new on-sales and tour announcements?
Follow Gigantic on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest concert announcements, tour news and weekly ticket on-sales.
Honouring our communities, all year round.
The artists, venues and audiences in this guide keep these stories alive long after October. Find a night that speaks to you and be part of it.
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