N-Dubz leading producer Fazer and top UK urban artists Ms Dynamite, Skepta and Devlin shared the stage for one night only with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, in a unique mash-up of musical cultures featuring breakthrough anthems, massive hits and exciting new material.
And a mash-up of cultures it certainly was, from the pre-concert hip hop-meets-Shakespeare performance on the freestage, through to the closing club set from DJ Policy. Taking place on Saturday night at the Barbican, London the Urban Classic is part of the BBC’s Music Nation – a nationwide weekend of live music events across the UK on the weekend of the 3 and 4 March. 2012. As well as marking the Barbican Centre’s 30th Birthday, the event is part of the countdown to the London 2012 Festival.
The Urban Classic concert was a meeting of musical cultures, bringing together a mix of musical worlds, on stage, both the artist and the orchestra are absolutely equal, with each bringing something musically unique to the collaboration.
I was very lucky to attend the rehearsals at the Barbican ahead of the show and was able to take a few snaps and video clips. After watching this rehearsal I had no doubt this was set to be a night to remember.
The performance was broadcast live on BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, and is now available on the BBC iplayer’s “listen here”. Click here.
Fazer rehearsal with BBC Symphony Orchestra
Ms.Dynamite rehearsal with BBC Symphony Orchestra
Devlin rehearsal with BBC Symphony Orchestra
Skepta rehearsal with BBC Symphony Orchestra
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