Birmingham reggae stars feature on Handsworth mural

A mural depicting some of the greatest names of the Birmingham reggae scene has been unveiled in Handsworth Park. Musicians including UB40, Apache Indian and Ranking Roger feature on the mural, designed by local artist Bunny James.

The artwork is part of the park's Simmer Down festival, in connection with the Black Heritage Walks Network and UCAN Birmingham.

Creative leaders say consultations with families and young people highlighted an appetite to deliver 'welcome projects' to help Handsworth recover from the pandemic.

They say the mural, which is painted on the wall of the Blue Play Centre, is part of a wider collection of Black Heritage in the Midlands.

Jesse Jerard - Chair of Simmer Down says:

'We do this to show reggae is on the map, the genre has moved along but it is still a significant genre to celebrate, and this is one way of doing it".

Annette B is a singer and artist, and is painted onto the mural. She says she hopes it will inspire future generations into music.

She says:

"It's an honour and privilege to know that this will be here for years, and I hope it inspires others to live their dream and just live it".