Rock Roots (1950s-60s)

• The city embraced American Rhythm & Blues in the 1950s, inspired by acts like Bill Haley and Elvis Presley.

• Local bands like Billy King and the Nightriders, and The Dominettes gained popularity in social clubs and Midlands' dances.

• The 'Brum Beat' scene emerged in the early 60s, influenced by the Merseybeat, leading to the signing of Midland bands by EMI Records.

• Notable Birmingham bands of this era included The Spencer Davis Group, Black Sabbath, and The Moody Blues.

Heavy Metal Birthplace (1960s)

• Birmingham is recognized as the birthplace of heavy metal music.

• Bands like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Led Zeppelin honed their skills in the city's early music scene.

• Mothers in Erdington gained international recognition as a top rock venue.

Reggae Influence (1970s-80s)

• Birmingham's large West Indian population contributed to a vibrant reggae scene.

• Bands like Steel Pulse and UB40 addressed social issues through music.

• The 2 Tone movement, with bands like The Specials and The Beat, drew from Mod, Punk, and Jamaican ska music.

Innovations: Mellotron Keyboard

• The city was pivotal in the development of the Mellotron keyboard, a sample-based instrument with a unique flute-like sound.

• Bands like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and The Rolling Stones incorporated it into their music.

New Romantic & Indie Era (1980s)

• Birmingham saw the rise of acts like Duran Duran, Dexys Midnight Runners, and The Bureau, originating from venues like Rum Runner nightclub.

• The late 80s witnessed the emergence of Grindcore, blending punk and heavy metal, as well as Grebo and Indie scenes with bands like Pop Will Eat Itself and Ned's Atomic Dustbin.

Electronic Evolution (1980s-90s)

• The city embraced Acid House and Rave music in the late 80s, leading to an evolution into Jungle and Drum 'n' Bass.

• Influential dance nights like Miss Moneypenny's and Gods Kitchen took root.

Diverse Influences (1990s-Present)

• House music gained significant traction in the 90s, propelled by local figures like Tony De Vit and Steve Lawler.

• Acts such as Bentley Rhythm Ace, The Streets, and Surgeon continue to shape Birmingham's electronic music scene.

• Notable groups like Neds Atomic Dustbin, The Wonderstuff, and Sneaker Pimps have emerged from the city.