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Rebel Radio

Explore the radical influence of pirate radio

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DJ Tee broadcast from three-year-old pirate radio station Kiss-FM studio. Photo by Jeff Veitch.

Experience the sound of resistance and reinvention across this month-long celebration of pirate radio and its lasting impact on music, culture and community.

Pirate radio was a movement. A rebellious force that gave Black British music and underground sounds a platform when mainstream stations wouldn’t. It shaped UK culture then, and its influence continues today.

Discover the radical influence of pirate radio across June through our programme of live radio broadcasts, a Rinse FM party, Sunday Selecta listening sessions, talks, workshops, film screenings, a 6-part podcast series and more.

Rebel Radio is part of Frequencies, a summer music season which includes Feel the Sound and In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats.

Reprezent Radio: Live from the Barbican

Youth-led station Reprezent Radio takes over the Barbican for four days this June, airing live from a custom-built studio with four themed broadcasts. Expect pirate radio stories, exclusive sets and special guests.

Rinse FM Party

Rinse FM club night

Rinse FM: Dial Shift

Enjoy b2bs with some pirate radio originals

Legendary station Rinse FM host this one-off party featuring pirate radio originals going b2b with the new generation. A selection of DJs and MCs will be announced soon.

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Go deep with those in the know

This talks programme is curated by Tobi Kyeremateng from Them Ones Presents.

Panelists across the talks series include Richie Brave, Laura ‘Hyperfrank’ Brosnan, Aniefiok Ekpoudom, Elijah, Geeneus, Dr Aleema Gray, Eddie Otchere, Alex Rita, Caleb Femi, Lynda Rosenior-Patten.

Get nostalgic at these films screenings

Discover a series of archive screenings on the history of pirate radio in the Cinema across June
Rebel Radio - Image by Jeff Veitch

Sunday Selecta

Be the DJ at this ultimate request show

Create the soundtrack to your Sunday. Inspired by the community spirit of pirate radio, this live event is all about sharing memories through music, hosted by legendary pirate radio DJ Bid.

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Podcast series

Rebel Radio: Podcast Making Workshop

Gaps in the Dial podcast

A brand new six part series

DJ and radio producer Tayo Popoola presents this six part podcast series delving in to the history and influence of pirate radio.

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Rebel Radio Listening Hub

'Make Yourself Heard' Audio Storytelling Masterclass

Join us for a two-day Audio Storytelling Masterclass led by award-winning audio producer and DJ Tayo Popoola.

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Reprezent Radio Live from the Barbican

Discover listening posts in the Centre

Throughout June, enjoy Listening Posts in the Barbican foyer, to access recordings of the radio broadcasts and podcasts, as well as a place for visitors to record memories of their own time spent interacting with pirate radio.