Hidden Hands emerges as a beacon of innovation and topical relevance, offering a poignant musical tribute to the members of Black and Asian communities who have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. As lockdowns gripped the nation once again and Europe faced a daunting second wave, Birmingham’s esteemed artists united to release a track that raises awareness of this critical issue.
Conceived and directed by Mukhtar Dar on behalf of the Simmer Down Festival, Hidden Hands received funding from the Arts Council England as part of its Emergency fund. The project serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and solidarity of Birmingham’s diverse communities.
At its core, Hidden Hands is a musical homage that sheds light on the stark reality facing Black and Asian individuals, who are four times more likely to succumb to the virus. Mukhtar Dar, the executive producer and project director, shared his personal motivation behind the project, stemming from the traumatic experiences endured by his family during the national lockdown.
The music for Hidden Hands, crafted by the acclaimed producer Simon Duggal, intertwines the potent message of the song with an 80s Birmingham reggae sound. The creative team, including singer-songwriter Dave Rogers and scholar-activist Antonia Darder, collaborated to pen lyrics that resonate deeply with the struggles and sacrifices of frontline workers from Black and Asian backgrounds.
What truly sets Hidden Hands apart is the stellar line-up of vocalists, each lending their talent and voice to the cause. From Grammy-award winner Selwyn Brown of Steel Pulse to rising star Janel Antoneshia, the artists involved share personal anecdotes and reflections on the impact of the pandemic on their communities.
The project’s significance is further underscored by its alignment with the findings of ‘The West Midlands Enquiry into COVID-19 Fatalities in the BAME Community.’ Highlighting systemic discrimination and inequalities in healthcare, Hidden Hands amplifies the urgent call for action and solidarity.
In essence, Hidden Hands stands as a testament to the power of music as a tool for social change and awareness. By shining a spotlight on the hidden struggles of marginalized communities, this ground-breaking production ignites conversation and inspires collective action in the face of adversity.