The Story of Bentley’s, Canning Town: Where Music Made Community

Bentley’s was at 23 Barking Road, Canning Town from 1975-1982. Prior to this, the venue was called The Bridge House and this period of its history is fairly well documented. However, the subsequent five years, 1982-1987, are not. As Bentley’s it became a cutting edge and underground soul music venue which broke the careers of many young Black DJs, dancers and producers. The club also hosted a weekly live broadcast by Black owned and run pirate radio station, LWR. Norman Jay MBE cites Bentley’s as an early influence that indirectly led to the formation of Kiss FM. 

Initially the main club DJ was the legendary Froggy, one of the soul mafia, but when he left, Derek Boland, one of the founders of UK hip hop, became the main draw. Bentley’s became a genre defining club; the creativity and innovation of the DJs brought new musical genres and new mixing techniques that influenced and broke the careers of many DJs, producers and dancers.

Rendezvous Projects are undertaking the research which will culminate in a small publication and podcast.

Newham Music will be working with Eastlea School and St Helen’s school to share the heritage with local young people, who will develop musical narratives around the themes.

The project will culminate with an event at Arch1, Unit 1, West Ham Arches, Cranberry Ln, London E16 4BJ on 17 June 2023, 7-11pm, including Q&A and DJs. Find out more and book tickets here.

A playlist of the music you could expect to hear at Bentley’s

A mix from former Bentley’s DJ Linden C

“Step back in time to the soulful era of Bentley’s nightclub in Canning Town! It was where it all began for me opening up for Derek. In my humble opinion two of the best djs to come out of the UK. Froggy and Derek Boland. RIP.” – Linden C

Podcast