Stratford’s cultural landscape just got a significant boost with the opening of Soul Mama, the innovative live music and dining venue situated on the ground floor of The Gantry Hotel.
This venue, brainchild of the multi-talented YolanDa Brown OBE DL—renowned musician, broadcaster, author, and philanthropist—promises to be a game-changer for London’s entertainment scene.
Soul Mama combines exhilarating live performances across a spectrum of genres like Jazz, Soul, Gospel, Reggae and more, with a unique dining experience. YolanDa Brown herself will captivate audiences with a special three-night performance in October that’s expected to be a deeply personal and electrifying experience.
The London Jazz Festival will see Soul Mama playing a significant role this November, hosting enchanting performances by Jazz Jamaica and Atlanta’s Avery*Sunshine, showcasing an exceptional blend of Jazz and Reggae. But the venue is more than just music; expect comedy nights, fireside chats, and family-friendly concerts, creating a versatile cultural hub.
The interior of Soul Mama mirrors its eclectic and vibrant programming. The venue features a spacious double-height area with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows creating an airy, welcoming atmosphere perfect for everything from high-energy concerts to relaxed gospel brunches. The design, led by artists, includes a prominent yet unobtrusive stage and a mix of tall and traditional restaurant-style seating, complemented by a bar that offers everything from rum cocktails to tasty bar snacks.
Under the culinary direction of Executive Head Chef Aleandro Brown, who trained with Michelin-starred talents like Gordon Ramsay, the restaurant offers a menu that pays homage to the rich flavours of Africa, the Caribbean, and South America. Signature dishes include creamy coconut chicken curry and Ghanaian style kelewele plantain, all meant to enhance the live entertainment, making for a holistic sensory experience.
Soul Mama also supports emerging artists and local talent, a vision supported by its record-breaking crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. This initiative not only set a new Guinness World Record but also highlighted the ongoing challenges and triumphs of woman-led startups, especially those founded by Black women.
In partnership with Ticketmaster, Soul Mama aims to reach a broader audience through an extensive marketing network, ensuring a seamless ticketing experience. This venue is poised to become a cornerstone for artists and audiences alike, fostering creativity and connection through its dynamic and diverse offerings.
As the doors to Soul Mama are now open, It’s time to gather your friends, book your ticket and take a step inside.