The Cultural Roots Sound System Museum – a remarkable showcase of reggae music history, sound system culture, the contribution of the town’s Caribbean community and the evolution of technology – has opened at the Higgins Bedford.
The exhibition launched on Saturday 7 October after a ‘pop up’ version appeared at Pride of Place Bedford on Midland Road in July.
For over 44 years, Cultural Roots has played a pivotal role in representing Bedford on the global reggae music stage.
It was started by two friends, Mr Kulcha Beats and Errol Spider, who decided to start a sound system on September 10 1979, after listening to a song called “Mr Boss Man “ by a group called Cultural Roots.
The sound system Cultural Roots was born and some years later Mr Q, a long-time friend, joined.
The very nature of Reggae sound system means updating equipment and keeping up with the latest technology, ensuring you’re ahead of the competition. Instead of selling or discarding equipment Kulcha decided to keep them “just in case”.
“If not for this decision, we would not now have a Cultural Roots Museum,” he said.
“Everything is custom-built or modified by us over time. We bring some of our historical pieces to some dances to educate people and to entertain”
Over the years, as sound Systems came and went, Cultural Roots stood the test of time. Ever-evolving, today Cultural Roots is the first Sound system ever to have lights emanating from its speakers on such a scale and its legacy culminated in a groundbreaking achievement: being the first reggae sound system ever to grace the stage at the O2 Arena in London.
Now, residents of Bedford Borough and visitors from further afield, have the opportunity to witness this journey first-hand at The Higgins Bedford.
The Cultural Roots Sound System Museum features a collection of meticulously preserved equipment spanning four decades. From wind-up gramophones to cutting-edge modern technology, the exhibition explores the diverse ways music has been enjoyed over the years.
But this exhibition is more than just a musical odyssey; it’s a nostalgic voyage back in time, offering glimpses of life before modern conveniences like central heating and mobile phones.
Over the next 12 months, Mr. Kulcha Beats, Mr. Q, and Junior Kulcha – the driving forces behind Cultural Roots – invite visitors to the Higgins to get hands-on with interactive exhibits, participate in workshops, and gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage preserved within the museum.
The exhibition will also showcase pieces donated by other sound system enthusiasts, highlighting the tight-knit community that has supported Cultural Roots throughout its journey.
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, expressed their excitement about the exhibition, saying, “The Cultural Roots Sound System Museum is a testament to Bedford Borough’s rich cultural tapestry and the contributions of the Caribbean community.
“This exhibition not only celebrates the evolution of music but also provides a window into our shared history. We invite everyone to join us at The Higgins Bedford and embark on this extraordinary journey through time and sound.”
For more information, please visit The Higgins Bedford website here.
