Let’s Talk!

Shahlaa Tahira grew up in Lewisham. She was the co-host on BBC Radio 1Xtra ‘Talks’ and currently hosts ‘Badass Mums The Podcast’. We catch up with her as she curates the Blue Borough Stage at People’s Day 2022.

What does People’s Day mean to you?

People’s Day holds many happy memories for me. When I was a teenager, it was the most exciting thing to happen in Lewisham all summer. Back then it was about what you were going to wear. My friends and I would spend weeks planning our outfits – lots of matching colours and hairstyles going on.

Tell us about the Blue Borough Stage

I was delighted to be asked to curate it. There’s something special about working in your hometown. I’ve picked a mix of artists to represent the local scene. I’ve included some Lewisham musical royalty – Novelist and Don Strapzy – alongside gems that people may not know yet. There’s Nina Rose and also Casskidd, who’s getting played on BBC Radio 1 and if you like being two steps ahead, they should be on your playlist.

Do all the artists you’ve chosen have a connection to Lewisham?

Everyone I’ve picked either lives, has previously lived or went to school here. From Sydenham, to Brockley, to New Cross, I’ve tried to make sure each part of Lewisham is represented. Some of the artists I met while growing up and others I’ve met through working in the music industry – you know when you get chatting to someone and then realise you’re from the same place? There’s nothing like that ‘blue borough’ bond - I love it!