Brixton Culture Capital | 13.02. 2025
The BCClist: The Power & Price of Brixton’s Culture Capital
Brixton has always been larger than life—a corner of South London humming with the energy of global influences, historic struggle, and creative rebellion. From the days of reggae basslines thumping under the railway arches to a modern wave of artisan cafés and kaleidoscopic street art, Brixton’s cultural capital has never stood still. Yet, more than ever, there’s a fiery debate about whether the community is being priced out of its culture. Are big investments breathing new life into local identities, or are they diluting the very spirit that made Brixton magnetic in the first place?
Last year, a group of brixtonians made a historic trip to Harlem, where we launched The Brixton Harlem Festival. That trip inspired me to write a piece called Brixton Culture Capital, which, in turn, inspired this blog.
Today, more businesses are shutting down than ever, new investors are moving in, and once-bustling restaurants that helped shape our culture are going dark. Where does that leave our cultural capital? When the spotlight shifts, who will fight for underrepresented cultural creatives and small independent business owners?
Our culture is our true currency, so I wonder how we will spend it tomorrow.
Trending in Brixton…..Smiley Culture
Talking of culture, Brixton is buzzing with pride as we honour one of our own: reggae icon Smiley Culture. On Monday, a blue plaque was unveiled at his former Stockwell home, sparking celebration across social media. Smiley Culture’s hit “Police Officer” once blared from Brixton sound systems, and now his legacy is written on the walls. For many, this recognition is a victory for Brixton’s cultural heritage – a nod that our community’s contributions to music and society matter. Locals on Twitter and Threads shared nostalgic clips of Smiley’s performances and debated why it took so long for the establishment to acknowledge a Black British reggae star. “Better late than never,” some say, applauding the Nubian Jak Community Trust for leading the tribute. The prevailing sentiment? Pioneers like Smiley have built Brixton’s cultural capital – and we must preserve and celebrate those roots even as the world around us changes. In an era when our neighbourhood’s name is often co-opted for cool points, moments like these remind us that we define our narrative. Smiley’s plaque isn’t just about one man – it’s about honouring the creative soul of Brixton that inspires the next generation of artists and rebels.
🛒 Brixton merch at www.brixtonpower.com
🎭 Upcoming Events in Brixton
Looking for Brixton events that capture the beating heart of our Brixton community?
14 Feb | Electric Brixton – BRESH: Valentine’s Day Special – London’s wildly popular Latin party throws a Valentine’s takeover, blending reggaeton, pop and throwback anthems in a massive all-nighter. Bring your dancing shoes and expect confetti cannons and perreo galore.
15 Feb | Brixton House – Love & Lyrics – A special Valentine’s showcase of music, poetry and spoken word celebrating love in all its forms – from romance and self-love to family and friendship. Hosted at the new Brixton House Theatre, this evening will uplift and inspire – think soulful singers, conscious rappers, and an open mic that welcomes all hearts.
15 Feb | Pop Brixton – Valentine’s Food & Artisan Market – Daytime market celebrating Black creatives and entrepreneurs. Browse stalls from 15 local artisans, munch on global street food, and join free workshops – a family-friendly feast of culture and community. (No cheesy Cupid décor here, just real local love!)
15 Feb | Hootananny Brixton – Brixton Bass: Valentine’s 360 Special – The award-winning drum & bass and jungle club night is back! Expect a heavyweight lineup (legendary DJs like Bladerunner, Brockie, and MC Det) dropping basslines that will shake the floor. This Valentine’s edition promises “360° love” – meaning booming sound from all sides, all night. Who says ravers can’t feel the love? Doors 10:30 pm – 3 am.
The BCClist Film & Theatre Guide
🎥 Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy – Renowned Rom-Com Revival. Our favourite London singleton is back! Now in her 50s, Bridget navigates life as a widowed single mum with her signature mix of chaos and charm. Showing at our beloved Ritzy Cinema (just in time for Valentine’s or a date night). Expect big laughs and nostalgic feelings – a mainstream crowd-pleaser that lets you reminisce and cheer Bridget on in a new chapter of life.
🎥 Captain America: Brave New World – Superhero Spectacle. Marvel’s latest blockbuster lands in Brixton. In this high-octane adventure, Sam Wilson (played by Anthony Mackie) dons the Captain America mantle, facing a fresh global threat. The action-packed entertainment will light up Ritzy’s big screen with epic battles and heroics. If you’re in the mood for adrenaline after a Brixton dinner, this is the Hollywood heavyweight to catch picturehouses.com
🎥A Real Pain – Indie Pick of the Week. This critically acclaimed independent film by Jesse Eisenberg stars Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin as mismatched cousins on a journey through Poland that’s as comedic as it is poignant. Winner at Sundance, A Real Pain is a whip-smart dark comedy-drama that explores identity, family and historical memory with biting wit theguardian.com. Showing in the Ritzy’s upstairs screen – a perfect thoughtful escape from the usual. Don’t miss this gem of a film that proves that indie cinema is alive and well in Brixton’s creative scene.
Tones – A Hip-Hop Opera (Brixton House) – Theatre Must-See. Brixton House continues to push boundaries with this genre-blending production. Tones is a 60-minute one-man show that fuses the gritty beats of grime and drill with the high opera drama. Brixtonhouse.co.uk. Performed by the magnetic Gerel Falconer, it’s a coming-of-age story set to a soundtrack that screams South London. Imagine an opera where the aria is a rap verse – that’s Tones. It’s bold, it’s innovative, and it’s so Brixton. Final performances run through this week (closing on 15 Feb), so grab a ticket and witness Brixton’s creative evolution live on stage.
Brixton grows through the people who cherish it—long-time residents, fresh entrepreneurs, and creative minds alike. Whether you support a local stall, launch a new project, or share this newsletter with a friend, you’re shaping our community’s energy. Got a story or event that speaks to Brixton’s spirit? We’d love to hear from you.
Brixton Discounts for our readers
Free Drink with Every Main at Clover’s
We’re obsessed with the food at Clover’s, one of our favourite brunch spots in Brixton. Enjoy a complimentary drink with us when you order any main meal this month! For an unforgettable experience, try their Caribbean breakfast—it’s a crowd’s favourite that never disappoints.
Mezza Me – 10% Off Lebanese Street Food
Mezza Me offers a taste of Lebanon with a Brixton twist. This cosy spot on Atlantic Road serves mouthwatering wraps, mezze plates, and refreshing mint lemonades. Mention TheBCClist to get 10% off your meal this month.
En Root – 10% Off Plant-Based Delights
Craving something healthy and hearty? En Root offers plant-based Indian fusion cuisine that’s both nutritious and delicious. From their famous jackfruit curry to their loaded samosas, every dish is a flavour bomb. Show this newsletter for 10% off your meal!
Mamalan – Authentic Chinese Street Food
Step into Mamalan for authentic Beijing street food in the heart of Brixton Village. All signature dishes, including dumplings and noodle bowls, are 10% off.
Until next Thursday 11.11
TheBcclist