The vibrant music scene of Oxford in the 1990s is getting its due, with a new exhibition at the Museum of Oxford titled 'Sounds of the City.' This exhibition is a celebration of the city's grassroots music culture, which birthed iconic bands like Ride, Supergrass, and Radiohead.
What makes this exhibition particularly fascinating is its focus on the personal stories and memorabilia that bring the music scene to life. From Mick Quinn's bass guitar, which was integral to Supergrass' early albums, to a charred guitar from Radiohead's 'Anyone Can Play Guitar' video, these artifacts offer a unique glimpse into the creative process and the passion of the artists.
Beth Jones, the community engagement officer at the museum, explains the exhibition's genesis: 'We realized that the 90s were a significant period for many locals, and they wanted to share their memories.' This sentiment is echoed by the numerous people who have contributed their own items and flyers, creating a collective narrative of the city's musical history.
The exhibition also highlights key events like Sound City Oxford in 1997, where BBC Radio 1 showcased local talent, and iconic gigs such as Radiohead's South Park performance. Jones, who curated the exhibition with local promoter Autumn Neagle, emphasizes the diversity of the music scene: 'We've got items here relating to rock, reggae, folk, and classical music, showcasing the breadth of Oxford's musical talent.'
'Sounds of the City' is on display at the Museum of Oxford until March 13th, accompanied by a series of events including live music, talks, and film screenings. Jones invites everyone to connect with the exhibition, saying, 'Music is a universal language, and I hope this exhibition resonates with people, whether they were in Oxford in the 90s or not.'
This exhibition is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories. It's a celebration of Oxford's musical heritage and a reminder of the impact that local scenes can have on the wider world.
