The 02 Academy Brixton is one of London’s prime music venues, nightclubs and theatres. It brings thousands of people from all around the Uk, every year.
Simon Parkes in 1982 bought a run-down cinema for £1 with the help of Johnny Lawes has created this phenomenal venue in Brixton that’s held the first and most iconic legal raves in the UK.
Both Parkes and Lawes had doubts when buying the landmark, as the cons outweighed the pros because of their hesitation with the area. This was because only a year earlier on “Bloody Saturday”, the Brixton riots had resulted in hundreds of injuries to police officers and locals, widespread raiding, streets of burned-out cars and buildings vandalised.
It has not only united music sounds such as, rock, indie and hip-hop but also culture and diversity amongst races. It was the start of a new decade that has unified people from different communities to experience joyful moments together.
The tragic passing of Johnny Lawes saddened his fellow associates and people who have previously performed in the venue. The academy had posted a tribute of Johnny Lawes attached with a heart-warming photo along with a message via twitter on the 10thDecember 2019, ”we are saddened to hear that Johnny Lawes had passed….he was an integral part of Brixton Academy’s creation and history and we wouldn’t be where we are today without his help in the early days”.
Luella Powerrice, aged 20, a student from Brixton said that, “I don’t know much about Johnny Lawes nor the Academy …. but it has had such a positive effect on this community as the media has only ever depicted Brixton as somewhere dangerous. It has allowed Brixton to be known for something of culture and history …. everyone gets together for an amazing time.”
Adam Peters, aged 23, student from Croydon said that, “I’ve been here several times and I love it, one of the best music venues around London, they’re all very welcoming and I have the best times there.”
Sarah Needham, aged 28, from Lancaster, said, “It’s a legendary venue and it didn’t disappoint. I love Brixton mainly for its diversity, I come all the way here for the academy because as it has such an amazing atmosphere…”.
An exclusive interview with current employees of the academy ,as some had been walking around Brixton handing out flyers- known as ‘the street team,’ said “working here has to be the most exciting and entertaining job to have” they added “ It is amazing to see and meet these talented and inspirational people. We get to meet remarkable people from all around the world…and it’s an honour to work with these great people”.
Residents of Brixton have said that Brixton has changed dramatically to how they once knew it, and how significant the academy is to the local community as it has alleviated the town to move upwards. The iconic building has also brought thousands of people every year, who wouldn’t have come to this neighbourhood for any other reason.
