Words: Theo Thompson, Images: RolandAK
Brixton Radio is more than just a station; it’s a vibrant reflection of Brixton itself; dynamic, diverse and driven by the pulse of music and culture. Behind this community-lead force is Ben Simmons, a man whose journey through the music industry mirrors the evolution of sound and the changing tides of culture. From humble beginnings in the vinyl shops of London to building one of the city’s most beloved independent radio stations, Ben’s story is a testament to passion, persistence and a love for the local scene.
A Journey Shaped by Music and the Streets: Ben’s love for music started at a young age. “We started going out in London around 14, 15, sneaking into clubs with fake IDs,” reminiscing on the rebellious spirit of youth and the formative years spent immersed in the raw energy of London’s underground club scene. His first job was at Lucky Spin, a record shop on King’s Road, where he was paid in vinyl. A move that helped solidify his connection to the physicality and authenticity of music. “I remember payments in tunes like ‘Cuckoo in the Jungle’ that early hardcore period,” recalling the music that shaped his early years in the business.
It was this passion that drove Ben to take a leap at the age of 21, when he moved to Ibiza, hoping to carve out a name for himself. His story is one of tenacity: “I drove to Privilege on my yellow pedal moped and just knocked on the door. The manager ended up giving me a residency on Fridays.” It was in the heart of Ibiza’s iconic party scene where Ben truly honed his craft, though it wasn’t without its challenges. “Five months in Ibiza wore me out,” he admits.
After Ibiza, Ben’s path took a turn toward corporate events with Atomic Events. While the financial stability was appealing, the passion for the culture was slipping. “It wasn’t my passion project anymore,” Ben says, describing his growing disillusionment with the commercial side of the music business. It was a realisation that led him back to his roots; community, creativity and the authenticity of underground music.
This reconnection with the soul of music laid the foundation for Brixton Radio, a platform born out of the lockdown in 2020. “I saw everyone doing Facebook Lives, and half of them looked like they were doing it from their living rooms, with dirty dishes in the background. I wanted to make it look as cool as possible,” Ben explains. What started as ‘Mr. Ben Radio’ evolved into Brixton Radio, an endeavour that would not only showcase local talent but also bring together the diversity of Brixton’s people. For Ben, it was always about more than just playing music. It was about creating a sense of belonging. “Brixton is so diverse, and that really comes through on the radio. I wanted to bring that energy and sense of community into everything we do.”
A Station Built on Diversity and Community: Brixton Radio quickly became a cornerstone of Brixton’s cultural scene, offering a platform for over 250 shows a month that span genres from reggae and soul to jazz, jungle and disco. The station’s ethos is rooted in the belief that music should be accessible to all, and this is reflected in its support of independent artists and community causes.
Despite the challenges of running a non-profit radio station, Ben remains committed to Brixton Radio’s mission. “It’s quite an expensive project, while not getting the support we should be, but if we keep pushing good music and try to help out, I can see it sticking around for a while,” he says. One of the station’s most impactful collaborations has been with ‘Shelter’, the homelessness charity. Ben is passionate about using Brixton Radio’s platform for social good, helping to raise awareness and encourage support for vital causes. “We’ve worked with some amazing festivals, such as that of Secret Island Festival, and we’d love to do more. Partnering with Shelter is important to us; raising awareness and getting people to sign up is a big part of what we want to do.” He also credits much of the station’s success to his talented team, especially the likes of Rory and Reuben, whose dedication and support have been invaluable. “We’re lucky to have such a strong team behind us, they really believe in the vision, and we’re learning as we go to make everything run more smoothly,” he adds.
In addition to Brixton Radio’s community impact, the station has recently expanded its physical space to better serve its growing audience and collaborators. Ben shares details about the new studio setup: “Here we are sat in Studio C, or ‘the stable,’ as we like to call it. It’s got a great vibe; you could be DJing in your grandmother’s living room, but it’s functional with a lovely setup for pre-recording or live jamming sessions.” Expressing his excitement to rent out the space for others working with a plethora of artists and musicians. “Studio A and B will be used for collaborations and live sessions. A ‘Tiny Desk’ style live lounge. It’s all about creating opportunities for growth while keeping the radio station at its heart.” Despite the challenges, Ben feels optimistic about the station’s future: “The radio is limitless. It can go in so many directions, and that’s what’s so fun about it.”
Building for the Future: As Brixton Radio expands, Ben’s vision remains rooted in community. His long-term goal is to create a self-sustaining platform that offers both a space for creative expression and educational opportunities for young people in the area. “I want a station where we can invite people to come and play, and not charge them. Hopefully, we’ll be subsidised by brands or some funding. But I also want us to deliver courses, education and give back to the community through our CIC, Sound School.”
Ben’s vision for Brixton Radio is clear: he wants to build a space where talent can thrive, and people can come together to experience music in its purest form. “It’s not about Instagram or the VIP scene. It’s about being in the moment, with people who share the same love for music,” he says. For Ben, it’s about fostering a space where music isn’t just heard – it’s felt.
While Brixton Radio’s journey is just beginning, Ben remains keenly aware of the shifting landscape of music and media. “You used to be able to go to a club with just a tenner, but now it’s harder to experience that intimate scene. Places like Drumsheds, with 15,000 people, have become the norm,” he says, lamenting the commercialisation of the scene. Yet, despite these challenges, he is hopeful for the future. The resurgence of ‘90s music and fashion among younger generations is a source of optimism for him. “I think the younger crowd now loves the authenticity of it. They’re drawn to the stories behind the music and its roots.”
Ben’s journey has been one of growth and reinvention, much like the station he founded. From the early days of collecting vinyl in London to running a radio station that supports both music and community, Ben Simmons has always remained true to his roots. And as Brixton Radio continues to grow, it will undoubtedly remain a beacon for local talent, a platform for positive change and a place where the heart of Brixton can be heard.
In Ben’s own words: “It’s about the community; creating a space where people feel a sense of belonging.” And that, in essence, is what Brixton Radio is all about: a celebration of music, culture and the people who make it all come alive.
