Bazil Meade MBE
Ask BCA About is a monthly one-hour education and learning series hosted by subject matter experts on our YouTube channel. The sessions provide accessible insights and practical guidance on a range of topics exclusive to the Black Cultural Archives community.
Join one of the UK's most celebrated gospel artists, Bazil Meade MBE and moderator Kei-Retta Farrell as they trace the origins and evolution of gospel music in Britain - from its roots in the American South to its Caribbean influences, carried across the Atlantic by the Windrush generation. This event will explore the rich history and cultural impact of this powerful music genre.
This event is perfect for music lovers and believers in the power of song!
Please note this is an online event.
This session is free for BCA Black Card members by logging into your account on the day of the event at 3:00 PM BST. Our members can access the full recording of this event anytime after as part of their membership benefits.
Bazil Meade MBE is a trailblazer in British gospel music; he’s the founder of the UK’s first gospel community choir, the London Community Gospel Choir (LCGC). His visionary leadership has nurtured some of the industry’s most exceptional vocalists, many of whom have gone on to perform with global superstars like Madonna, Emili Sandé, Sam Smith, and Ellie Goulding, as well as inspiring countless amateur singers to find their voice. A hugely sough-after musical director, Bazil’s credits include the West Ed hit “Mama I Want To Sing”, the BBC film “Hallelujah Anyhow”, and the National Theatre’s acclaimed production of James Baldwin’s “The Amen Corner.” Today, he tours the “The Bazil Meade Experience'‘ a soul-stirring celebration of the gospel, jazz, and R&B sounds that shaped his artistry.
Kei-Retta Farrell is a dynamic professional with a rich and diverse background across government, academia, and the nonprofit sector. Born in Montserrat and migrating to the UK in 1997 following the volcanic crisis, she holds a BA in Politics and International Studies from the University of Warwick and a Double Master’s in International Development from Warwick and American University, Washington DC.
Her career spans roles in both the UK and Montserrat, with a focus on strategy, innovation, and organisational change. Most recently, Kei-Retta served as Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging at Young Lives vs Cancer, where she led transformational work to embed inclusive practice across the charity’s operations and services. She has also held leadership and change roles in local government, consistently championing equity and impact.
A committed community advocate, Kei-Retta has led youth outreach campaigns supporting refugees and the homeless. She has also served on boards including the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy, The Riverside Group, and Girl Dreamer, advancing accountability and good governance.
Currently, Kei-Retta serves as the Government of Montserrat Representative to the UK, where she brings her strategic insight, cross-sector experience, and passion for social change to elevate Montserrat’s presence and partnerships.