At the launch of The Brent Reggae Album Covers Exhibition, which marked the annual July 1 International Reggae Day commemoration in Harlesden, north-west London, the recently released ‘Fresh Prince Of Harlesden’ album and rising star Big Zeeks were the centre of attention at the exhibition, which was officially opened by the Mayor of Brent Tariq Dar.

The album by Harlesden-born Big Zeeks, was the only one to represent UK dancehall and a 21st century release. The rest of the exhibits of cover photos shot in various locations across the north-west London borough of Brent, span from the late 1960s to early 1990s and feature mostly the roots & culture and lovers rock genres.

At an earlier gathering around The Reggae Tree in front of the Hawkeye record store, where there were speeches on the environment and the local music history. It ended with the singing of Bob Marley’s ‘Redemption Song’ A cake decorated with an image of The Reggae Tree was cut by the Mayor and others. It was one of the refreshments donated by local businesses.

The exhibition is curated by independent history researcher and historical musicologist Kwaku, delivered by BTWSC/African Histories Revisited and BritishBlackMusic.com/Black Music Congress, and supported by Brent Museum and Archives. It will be on display in Harlesden library until Oct. 31. There will be monthly in-library music and talks on Aug. 12, Sep. 2 and Oct. 31.