Event

Rock Against Racism

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Rock Against Racism Gig Planned for Derry

Local campaign group United Against Racism have announced an incredible
lineup for their ‘ Rock Against Racism ‘ event.

The gig will be dedicated to the memory of Derry musician, activist and lifelong anti racist, Colm Bryce who sadly passed away a few months ago.

A spokesperson for the group explained the history of Rock Against Racism and why it is still relevant today:


“ Rock Against Racism was a political and cultural movement which emerged in 1976 in reaction to a rise in racist attacks on the streets of Britain and increasing support for the far-right National Front at the ballot box.

Between 1976 and 1982, RAR activists organised national carnivals and tours, as well as local gigs and clubs throughout the country.

RAR brought together black and white fans in their common love of music, to discourage young people from embracing racism.

The musicians came from all pop music genres, something reflected in one of RAR's slogans: "Reggae, soul, rock'n'roll, jazz, funk and punk".

The Nazi National Front are now gone but their rotten politics have become mainstream.

Today fascist groups across Ireland and Britain are organising to promote hatred and division.

Social media muck spreaders happily dump their lies and misinformation online, building a climate of hatred and fear.

On the streets the fascists are once more marching.

Just like in 1976, people are getting angry and fighting back.

United Against Racism Derry and North West are delighted to announce a huge Rock Against Racism event taking place in this city.

On July 3rd in the magnificent Sandino’s club venue, Rock Against Racism 2025 will be a howl against hatred.

Featuring one of the greatest line ups this city has ever seen, this is music that to paraphrase the great Woody Guthrie ‘ kills fascists .’

Legendary Derry band Bam Bam and the Calling will roll back the years and show why they are one of the best and most vibrant acts ever to emerge from Derry.

Sean McKenna is an anti fascist to his core. He toured the world with the Mary Wallopers while still finding time to run Hermann Kelly and his mob out of Drogheda.

Sean is not just a brilliant, global star…

He’s part of the great Irish tradition of radical singers and performers. Influenced by the Dubliners, The Pogues, Christy Moore and Joe Mulhern to name but a few .

He doesn’t just sing about fighting fascists, he lives it.

Tramp hail from various parts of Donegal. One of the most relevant and important bands in Ireland today, they spend their energies dismantling the patriarchy and making racists cry.

Tessio were last seen supporting Billy Ocean. Harmonies to soothe the soul and clear the mind.

This brilliant two piece are dedicated to making music great again.

Phillip Wallace has played with every band worth playing with over the last 35 years.

Wally has been an Enchilada, hammered out beats for Cashier Number 9, been in the Whole Tribe Sings and many, many more.

He will be performing under the guise of Hypnic Jerk. A one man band like you have never seen before.

Critically acclaimed, Wally’s new music has received frequent plays across the local BBC network.

Wally ain’t just a good guy with a remarkable talent, he’s a passionate anti racist.

DJ Gerard C is a local clubbing legend.With regular DJ slots across the North West including residencies in Rodden’s of Buncrana and Sandino’s he’s proved himself one of the most popular DJs in Ireland today.

When Gerard ain’t mixing beats he spends his time challenging fascists.

Holding court and keeping order on the night will be the fabulous, multi award winning poet, actor, musician and performer Abby Oliviera…

Abby was promoted by BBC 6 Music as one of the best emerging talents in the world of poetry.

A natural performer, her wit and charm as our compère will be worth the admission fee alone.

We could charge £50 a ticket for this extravaganza but we are not going to do that.

Culture needs to be accessible and affordable. So for only £10 if you are waged or £5 if you’re not you can experience all this.


We hope to see you all there. “


Doors open at 8! Please be early so you don’t miss a thing



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