Celebrating London's Diverse Music Scene -1000 Londoners
Stories of the people who write, produce, play and love music in London
Music pulses through the veins of London, weaving its way into the city's diverse communities and cultural expressions. At 1000 Londoners, we've been privileged to document this vibrant tapestry, capturing the stories of musicians who define and redefine the soundscape of the capital. With the recent release of our film on Kaidi Akinnibi, we delve into the lives of London-based musicians, celebrating their contributions to the city's rich musical heritage.
Kaidi Akinnibi: A Jazz Prodigy in London
Kaidi Akinnibi, a London-based saxophonist, composer, and producer, epitomises the fusion of traditional jazz with contemporary influences. Rooted in classic jazz genres, Kaidi's musical journey has been shaped by his upbringing in South London and his involvement with the Kinetika Bloco and Jazz Warriors families. His collaborations span a diverse range of artists, including Tom Misch, Black Midi, Blue Lab Beats, and Celeste. Kaidi's own music is described as "more vocal orientated, taking its influence from a broad base of electronica, Jazz and Classical music to create soundscapes reminiscent of movie soundtracks."
Our film on Kaidi offers an intimate glimpse into his creative process and his reflections on the power of local music spaces in London. As Kaidi shares his experiences, viewers gain insight into the dynamic interplay between London's musical heritage and its evolving contemporary scene.
Peter Cigleris: Classical Clarity
Peter Cigleris is a professional clarinettist deeply embedded in London's classical music scene. Having performed on many of the city's major stages, Peter's dedication to his craft is evident in his nuanced performances and commitment to musical excellence. His film provides a window into the life of a classical musician navigating the vibrant cultural landscape of London.
Leni White: Resilience Through Music
Leni White's story is one of resilience and the healing power of music. During the 2011 London riots, Leni's flat in Ealing was set ablaze, destroying her possessions. Remarkably, her cherished violin was rescued from the flames, singed but still in tune. This poignant moment underscores the profound connection between musicians and their instruments, and the enduring spirit of London's artistic community.
Ayanna Witter-Johnson: Genre-Defying Talent
Ayanna Witter-Johnson stands out as a cellist, singer, and composer who seamlessly blends classical music with jazz, soul, and reggae influences. Her innovative approach challenges traditional genre boundaries, reflecting the diverse musical tapestry of London. Ayanna's film captures her dynamic performances and her role as a trailblazer in the city's music scene.
Kenny Lynch: A British Entertainment Icon
Kenny Lynch's contributions to London's music and entertainment industry are both significant and enduring. Born in the East End in 1938, Kenny was a singer, songwriter, and actor who broke racial barriers in the UK entertainment scene. His film offers insights into his experiences growing up in post-war London and his reflections on the Windrush generation's impact on British culture.
Uncle Dugs: Championing Jungle and Acid House
Uncle Dugs is a prominent figure in London's underground music scene, known for his advocacy of jungle and acid house genres. From his early days on pirate radio stations to his current status as a respected DJ, Uncle Dugs' passion for music has been unwavering. His film delves into his journey and the evolution of London's electronic music landscape.
Alexandra Burke: From Talent Show to West End Star
Alexandra Burke's rise to fame began with her victory on a popular talent show, leading to a successful career in music and theatre. Her portrayal of Rachel Marron in the West End production of "The Bodyguard" showcased her versatility and stage presence. Alexandra's film provides a behind-the-scenes look at her transition from pop stardom to theatrical acclaim.
Yllka Istrefi: Classical Pianist and Marathon Runner
Yllka Istrefi is a Kosovan-born classical pianist who has made London her home since 2001. A Steinway Artist, Yllka has performed internationally, including at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. and London's St Martin-in-the-Fields. Her film explores her journey from Prishtina to London, highlighting her dual passions for music and marathon running. Yllka's story exemplifies the diverse cultural fabric of London's music scene.
Chocolate Films: Supporting London's Musical Talent
Beyond documenting stories, Chocolate Films actively supports musicians and artists through a range of services:
Music Video Production: Creating visually compelling music videos that capture the essence of an artist's work.
Documentary Filmmaking: Producing in-depth documentaries that explore the narratives behind the music.
Workshops and Training: Offering educational programs that empower young people to tell their own stories through film.
As a social enterprise, Chocolate Films reinvests profits into community projects, ensuring that the next generation of London musicians and filmmakers have the resources and support to thrive. Through these initiatives, Chocolate Films continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of music in London, celebrating the city's dynamic and diverse soundscape.
