GRM Gala: Why Gala’s Are Important
I’ll take some glitz and glamour, a bright red carpet and some big industry names to go please. Don’t forget the flashing lights! On the 6th of August, the GRM Gala welcomed artists and industry leading figures to celebrate Black Excellence in UK Music and Entertainment. The illustrious event entertained the likes of Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Stormzy, Kojey Radical, Tion Wayne, Krept & Konan, Amelia Dimoldenberg, Wretch 32, ZeZe Millz, Snoochie Shy, Giggs, Ghetts, Michael Dappah, Anthony Yarde, Knucks, K-Trap, Avelino, Michail Antonio, Miraa May and Ms Banks.
Images by Elliot Hensford
Glitz and Glamour
Everyone put their best foot forward and commemorated the event at central London’s highest public garden and iconic landmark skyscraper, Sky Garden. Set within the lavish surroundings and backdropped with views across the whole of the London skyline, the prestigious red carpet featured some stellar ensembles from leading British designers and world-renowned fashion labels.
GRM Daily is an award-winning platform that has been at the epicenter of UK Rap & Grime culture for over a decade. An outlet where the very best of UK music is wholeheartedly celebrated, GRM is renowned as an influential launch pad for the country's emerging and established talent and is also the host of Britain’s premier award ceremony for UK Rap & Grime music, The Rated Awards. With over 6 billion YouTube views, 6 million subscribers and an online reach of over 9 million, making GRM the most viewed British music platform in the UK.
Take in the moment
It’s fair to say GRM has come a long way and galas such as these are important to continue to celebrate excellence and showcase greatness. To have an array of talent in one building is truly inspiring and is a constant reminder that the sky is the limit. A gala is an opportunity to take a moment to absorb all that has been achieved within the industry whilst continuing to raise awareness and give praise where it’s due. In this digital era things are constantly changing and the wheels are always turning. To have a moment to appreciate the culture and the people is essential to remind us of how far we’ve come and where we’re going. Gala’s allow people to feel special and empowered. More of this please!
Fashion & Galas
The best part about a gala and what everyone is really tuning in for is the fashion! We had the likes of Stormzy who strutted his stuff in Givenchy, Dior and Christian Louboutin. Leigh Anne Pinnock came through in full Saint Laurent, Avelino in Morelli, Kojey Radical arrived in Maison Margiela, Wretch 32 in a bespoke tailored suit from Scabal at Saville Rowe, Model and Influencer Kenza Boutif shined in a YSL dress and Oloni stunned in A.T.K. These amazing figures came together to create the Gala’s glitziest celebration yet, cementing its status on the fashion calendar and bringing the best in style, music and entertainment together. Fashion and galas go hand in hand and whether an artist didn’t quite tickle your fancy or you fell in love with a particular look, the fact that galas can get people talking, criticising and praising, it’s fair to say job done!
Invest! Invest! Invest!
Gala’s are a great opportunity to raise funds, but also connect the attendees to the cause. Investing in the culture is the only way for the culture to truly grow and reach heights that haven’t been seen before. When we all share a common objective then it is much easier to reach our goals. As of recent, UK entertainment has reached heights that haven’t been seen before and this is only the beginning.
Long may it continue!