At a time when mainstream broadcasters largely ignored or side-lined the voices of marginalised communities, pirate radio became a vital space for self-expression, cultural identity, and resistance. These underground stations weren’t just about music, they were about community, politics, and carving out a space for stories that the establishment refused to tell.
This collection unearths rare documentaries and broadcasts that explore the untold histories behind the pirate airwaves, shining a light on the DJs, activists, and cultural pioneers who risked legal repercussions to amplify sounds and perspectives that would otherwise go unheard. From the thumping beats of jungle and reggae to urgent debates on race, identity, and representation, these films capture the raw energy and radical spirit of a movement that shaped the cultural landscape of the UK.
Across two sessions of rare footage, this video mixtape not only archives the vibrant pirate radio era but also amplifies the voices that defied mainstream silence, broadcasting beats, stories, and struggles across the airwaves. It’s a tribute to the rebel broadcasters who tuned in, turned up, and refused to be ignored.
