// BBC ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS — MODA & SOCIETÀ
The rise of new black spaces in music
African diaspora is finding new audiences in a city celebrated for its musical heritage
A new sound is taking Bristol's dancefloors by storm.
Driven by rolling log drums, syncopated rhythms and infectious melodies, amapiano and other electronic sounds from across the African diaspora are finding new audiences in a city celebrated for its musical heritage.
Behind these parties is a new generation of black promoters passionate about creating spaces where black people can hear their music, celebrate their cultures and feel like they belong.
But for some, building these spaces has also meant confronting the familiar challenge of finding spaces where black music and the communities around it are welcomed and not feared.
Unkle Mykel started hosting events to connect to different cultures
Bristol-based promoter Unkle Mykel's journey into events began in his own back garden after he moved to Bristol in 2017.
What started as garden barbecues gradually grew into a way of bringing people together, particularly members of Bristol's black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.
"It's about celebrating our cultures, bringing people into that fold and connecting," says the 32-year-old, who hosts Bristol Barbecue Family and The Aux Social.
Originally from Kenya, Mykel moved to the UK in 2005. Since then, he has witnessed changes in the visibility of African music.