The latest news, updates and events in Birmingham
Reggae star and Birmingham music legend Apache Indian has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours. Recognised internationally for his fusion of bhangra, reggae and pop, the 53-year-old singer from Handsworth gained prominence in the 1990s with a string of hits including Boom Shack-A-Lak, Chok There and Don Raja.
Internet meme sensation Grumpy Cat has died at the age of seven, according to her owners. In a statement released on social media, it was revealed the online celebrity had passed away on Tuesday following complications from a recent urinary tract infection.
Black Sabbath were today honoured on the Westside BID’s Walk of Stars; Birmingham’s equivalent to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Band member Tony Iommi received the honour presented by Lady Mayoress Yvonne Mosquito with guests including local comedian Jasper Carrott and the family of Iommi.
It is with great sadness that the comic book community hear the news that Stan Lee has passed away at the age of 95. To say his shadow will loom large is an understatement. I think only the likes of Geoffrey Chaucer and William Shakespeare have created more legendary, long-lasting characters and that’s some feat…
Who was the ‘Queen of Kingston’? Cubah Cornwallis became known as “The Queen of Kingston”. She was also known as Couba and Cuba, her birthdate was unknown but she died in 1848. The little known woman and revered figure in Black History is behind Jamaica’s first documented nursing facility.
Football legend Eric Cantona is heading to Birmingham next week to meet fans and enjoy a Parisian style burlesque-themed night near Broad Street. Fans have the chance to enjoy a three-course dinner and an evening of Moulin Rouge inspired entertainment as soccer supremo Cantona regales them with tales of his career at Manchester United and beyond.
A new mural honouring legendary reggae band Steel Pulse was been unveiled in Handsworth to coincide with National Album Day while recognising revolution through music. The special unveiling – part of the city’s Bass Festival celebrating 50 Years of Reggae – was held as Birmingham marks Black History Month.