Rewind Exhibition Launch Night Celebrates Iconic Artists Across Eras

Thursday 8 February saw the vibrant launch of the much-anticipated Rewind: This is Croydon’s Music exhibition, a celebration of iconic artists spanning generations and genres. The event, held in the Museum and Braithwaite Hall in Croydon Clocktower, drew in a crowd of cultural enthusiasts, music aficionados, and notable personalities alike.

The exhibition, curated with meticulous detail, showcases a mesmerising array of photography, oral histories and objects belonging to legendary figures. From the esteemed Samuel Coleridge Taylor to punk rock pioneer Captain Sensible of The Damned, the collection pays homage to an eclectic mix of talents that have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape – way beyond Croydon.

Among the luminaries in attendance was ground-breaking rap and hip-hop artist Nadia Rose, the legendary dub music producer Mad Professor, conscious rapper and song-writer Still Shadey, and international reggae sensation Desmond Dekker’s daughter Desrene Dacras. Their presence lent an air of reverence to the occasion, reminding all present of the profound impact these artists have had on the music scene in Croydon and far beyond.

Attendees were treated to performances by local musicians including Croydon Steel Orchestra, Croydon Playlist and young jazz musicians from Croydon Music and Arts. The night concluded with a special DJ set by dub-step trailblazer DJ Hatcha, whose beats had the crowd ‘moving and grooving’ well into the evening. The atmosphere was electric as guests mingled amidst the captivating displays, sharing anecdotes and memories inspired by the showcased artists.

The event served as a testament to the enduring influence of the artists celebrated in the Rewind exhibition, a fitting tribute to the rich tapestry of music history woven by these extraordinary individuals.

You can view the exhibition at the Museum on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays between 11am and 5pm from now until 7 September.