Liverpool’s Steve Biko Housing Association has partnered with South Africa’s Steve Biko Foundation to showcase a music collaboration about struggle, identity and equality at LIMF 2015.

Artists Roxanne Jones and Merki Waters from Liverpool 8 will partner with South African singer Tresor, rapper Shai and vocalist Siphokazi to create songs about their shared experiences.

The five artists, who have been working with acclaimed Liverpool musician and producer KOF, will preview their songs on 30 August at the free LIMF Summer Jam, before performing a full set at Liverpool’s District in the evening.

Roxanne says: “It has been an amazing experience, not only to work with such talented people and write great songs, but also to share our own stories of identity and to understand how our struggles have shaped our lives and music.”

Merki adds: “There may be many barriers in life, but music can help break them down and art has always been a feared and powerful weapon in activism.”

The SA to UK Collective will also be digitally releasing a themed EP on the day, and the South African musicians will visit the renowned Parr Street studios in August to finish the EP ahead of LIMF.

Tracey Gore, director of Steve Biko Housing Association, says: “This project is more than just an exchange visit, it is a chance to grow relations between the two countries, teach new skills and for young people to discover how inextricable the links are between arts and activism.”

By Eleanor Davies

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