Start Here

What better way to kick off Season 2 than from Alexis diving deep into the world of Drum & Bass with Sweetpea, a powerhouse of the genre known for her diverse sound and dynamic DJ sets.  From its roots in the UK’s underground rave scene to a global phenomenon, they explore everything from the origins and evolution from Jungle music, through to some advice for up-and-coming artists looking to break through in Drum & Bass, along with recommendations on where to start for those new to the genre. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to understand the rich history and fresh energy of one of the most exciting genres in dance music.

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‘Start Here’ is a podcast brought to you by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM). Hosted by pianist, composer and producer Alexis Ffrench, the show returns for an exciting second season on Wednesday 26th February, 2025.

Exploring different musical genres each week and taking listeners on an entertaining and thought-provoking exploration, ‘Start Here’ features special guests and well-known artists who share their love and recommendations on where to start your musical journey.

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Rounding off the series, we dive into one of the most divisive genres out there: Musical Theatre. West End star Shanay Holmes is the perfect bridge between die-hard fans and sceptics, and she joins Alexis to unpack the allure and evolution of her genre. Holmes also shares her inspirational journey, from unconventional beginnings to soaring on stage. Discover the essence of great musicals, the performance demands, and the vibrant community it cultivates — and make sure to stick around to get a taste of Shanay’s incredible voice (accompanied by Alexis of course). 

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In the summer of 2023, Beyoncé and Taylor Swift ignited a global frenzy with their colossal stadium tours, dominating headlines and economies alike. But amidst the spectacle, questions loom: What does this mean for the future of pop? Can any act from the streaming era ascend to their heights? This episode, Alexis Ffrench delves deep with pop critic Shaad D'Souza, exploring the essence of stadium pop, its evolving sound, and the emergence of a new pop middle class.  

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We're diving deep into the genre that is at the heart of global culture: Hip-Hop. Joined by esteemed DJ Semtex, renowned host, and author of "Hip Hop Raised Me", Alexis explores the genre's monumental impact over its 50-year journey. From its humble NYC origins to becoming a billion-dollar industry, Hip-Hop has reshaped music, fashion, and beyond. With Semtex's infectious passion and unparalleled connections, we unravel the genre's evolution and its enduring influence on the world stage. 

Content flag: DJ Semtex uses a racial slur in the context of a very personal, formative story at 08:27 - 10:50 — if you would rather not hear this, please skip past this point or enjoy one of our many other episodes. 

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Bhangra is responsible for one of the most iconic floor fillers of all time, the instantly recognisable ‘Mundian To Bach Ke by Punjabi MC. But Bhangra is no one-hit wonder — there is a rich culture and community that thrives around this genre to this day. This episode, we are journeying through the Bhangra sound with the help of Rav & Dee — better known as Panjabi Hit Squad. DJs, producers and pioneers of the Desi Beat sound, they formed in 2002 with a mission to bring music from the east, mix it with beats from the west and get people dancing. Together, we unpack the origins of the genre in the Punjab region, how the sound evolved within immigrant communities here in the UK and what is next for the Bhangra scene. 

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Jazz’s influence can be felt in almost all popular genres today — dance music, hip-hop, even pop. But the genre itself can sometimes seem inaccessible. Why? Alexis unravels the enigmatic allure of jazz with the remarkable Yazz Ahmed, a trailblazing trumpeter and composer. Yazz invites us into the vibrant world of contemporary jazz, a world where innovators, rather than traditionalists, reign supreme. From Arabic influences to electronic experiments, her music and tastes transcend boundaries, and she is brimming with surprising, accessible recommendations to start your own listening journey.  

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How is country music changing with the times? Broadcasting legend Bob Harris joins as the guide through the intricate landscape of country music. With his extensive experience hosting The Country Show on BBC Radio 2, Bob offers unique insights into the genre's evolution and its impact on both sides of the Atlantic. From timeless icons like Dolly Parton to modern trailblazers such as Kasey Musgraves, Bob's interviews and advocacy have shaped the UK's relationship with Nashville. As Alexis delves into what defines ‘real’ country sound and the inclusivity of the genre, Bob's wisdom sheds light on the diverse voices shaping its future. 

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From PSY’s megahit Gangnam Style in 2012 to BlackPink headlining Coachella in 2023, Korean pop, or K-pop, has gone global over the last ten years. So, what is the secret behind the genre’s international success? We dive into the 360-degree appeal of K-pop — the aesthetics, the choreography, the fandom and of course the music itself — with the help of podcaster and journalist Vivian Yoon. Alexis and Vivian unpack the multifaceted world of K-pop, diving headfirst into the sonic landscape to track down the illusive musical element that underpins the genre. 

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Is Afrobeats the sound of the future? Already huge across Africa, Europe and here in the UK — the infectious genre has also enjoyed more recent success in the US. Afrobeats acts are topping the Billboard Hot 100, selling out Madison Square Garden and collaborating with huge pop names like Selena Gomez, Drake and Justin Bieber. Alexis sits down with Christian Adolfo, journalist and author of A Quick Ting on Afrobeats — the first ever book on modern Afrobeats — to find out where this genre came from, how the sound has evolved and where it’s headed.  

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