The two-part documentary series celebrates the pioneering Black women who have shaped and influenced the British music industry. Highlighting their stories and invaluable contributions, the series will premiere on BET International’s YouTube channel and My5 on Thursday, December 12, at 12 PM, with the second episode airing on December 19 at the same time.
As the first series dedicated to championing the perspectives of Black women in the music industry, Queens of Music shares motivating, untold stories through personal accounts and archival material. These narratives showcase a diverse group of women who have broken barriers within a very male-dominated industry.
Executive Producer Jaimie D’Cruz remarks, “Queens of Music celebrates the unsung heroes of the music industry. These extraordinary women have worked behind the scenes, enabling the success of some of the biggest artists. The series also offers a powerful exploration of 40 years of Black British pop culture through a fresh and underrepresented perspective.”
Each 44-minute episode profiles industry professionals from various sectors, including A&R, publishing, management, and label leadership. These women have played critical roles in discovering and nurturing talent, guiding artists to fame, and shaping the industry from behind the scenes. The cast includes:
- Cookie Pryce, UK Hip-Hop pioneer from the legendary 80s duo Cookie Crew, who transitioned into a successful career at Atlantic UK, the MOBOs, and her own PR firm.
- Sandra Scott, former PR and Label Consultant, known for working with Soul II Soul, De La Soul, and Stormzy.
- Jada Pollock, manager of Wizkid, who played a pivotal role in propelling his career to international success.
- Taponeswa Mavunga, now Director of Africa at Sony Music, who started as a temp receptionist.
- Sheniece Charway, Head of Black Music and Culture at YouTube.
- Dellessa James, Senior Artist Relations Manager at Amazon Music UK.
- Char Grant, Afryea Henry-Fontaine, and Komali Scott-Jones, industry leaders and founders of The Black Music Coalition and The Debrief.
BET UK Commissioning Editor Shurwin Beckford adds, “This series sheds light on the incredible stories of Black women who have helped shape the UK’s Black music scene over four decades. Despite their critical contributions, many have remained nameless and faceless—until now. Their inspiring journeys deserve recognition.”
This is another big step in documenting the UK music scene and we are here for it. Everyone involved has had a huge impact and it will be great to hear their stories.
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