Musician's music honors Windrush elders' voices

Musician Renell Shaw is set to perform "The Windrush Suite" and its sequel, "Echo in the Bones," at Kings Place, London. A key element of his performance includes incorporating the recorded voices of his grandparents, stored in his MPC One drum machine, to be present with the band on stage.

The "Windrush Suite" delves into personal narratives of West Indian migration to Britain, moving beyond historical facts to explore themes of growth and triumph over adversity. Shaw's compositions blend jazz, classical, and funk, performed by a multi-generational ensemble, aiming to carry lived experience and future perspectives.

Shaw, an Ivor Novello award winner, initially performed these works virtually during the pandemic. He now highlights the renewed significance of live performances and human connection, particularly as a counterpoint to rising AI technology. The "Echo in the Bones" suite addresses the experiences of his parents, focusing on their resilience against oppression, including police brutality.

Upcoming performances include "The Windrush Suite" and "Echo in the Bones" on June 25, 2026, and the premiere of "Remember Us Tomorrow" on October 9, 2026. Shaw aspires to create art that reflects the times and encourages curiosity, inspired by artists like Nina Simone.