About Friendly Fire

Composed of an international line-up of musicians, the Friendly Fire sound comfortably juggles traditional roots, dancehall and one drop rhythms, and they’ve become an institution on the Birmingham Reggae Scene. In this conversation, we find out about their love for Birmingham and what inspires their music and lively performances.

Having supported a host of artists from Dawn Penn to the late Michael Prophet and released music on their own Friendly Fire Music label, the band continue to be one of the most active live reggae and dancehall outfits in Birmingham, on stage and in the studio. Friendly Fire have attracted a strong fan base through their fiery festival performances on some of the best stages on the national circuit.

About The On Record Project

Presented in partnership with B:Music

Broadcaster Satnam Rana and Radio Journalist Adrian Goldberg present twenty-two conversations with a range of musicians, promoters, managers, venue owners and entrepreneurs who have contributed to local, national and international music culture and heritage. The conversations focus on their life in music, their connection to the city and how it was influenced or inspired their work and what they think of Birmingham and our music.

Tickets free but must be pre-booked at bmusic.co.uk

On Record Podcast

Each On Record In-Conversation event will be released as a podcast, available to stream on all major platforms and will be broadcast weekly on BBC Radio West Midlands.

On Record Album

In a first of its kind, On Record is a multi-artist, multi-genre concept album featuring eleven new songs about Birmingham, available on a limited vinyl release and across all streaming platforms. 

A sonic love letter to the city of Birmingham, each artist was written and recorded an original song that is inspired by Birmingham and what it means to them. Captured on record are references to the people, places and spaces that make up our vibrant and diverse city. Tales of canals and wildlife, migrant communities, Sparkhill at midnight and Bedders Chip Shop on the Coventry Road are just a small taste of the themes covered On Record. 

Presenting eleven uniquely personal insights from guests including Bambi Bains, Soweto Kinch, Xhosa Cole and Dapz on the Map, On Record will resonate with those who call Birmingham home whilst simultaneously offering an introduction to the city, its people and its music for those who are only just getting to know us. 

On Record is released on 17 June in physical and digital formats.

Generously supported by Arts Council England and The National Lottery Heritage Fund.