Summer of Sound: Camden Market Reignites London’s Musical Heartbeat

Hinton Magazine
Jul 18
3 min read

Camden has never done quiet. It's a part of London that pulses with the echoes of rebellion, rhythm and reinvention. From its indie backrooms to its global superstars, music runs through its cobbled veins. And this summer, Camden Market is turning up the volume once again.

Launching this July, Summer of Sound is Camden Market’s six-week cultural crescendo – a free-to-attend festival of live music, family happenings and high-energy happenings paying tribute to the area’s inimitable musical legacy. It’s not just a celebration, it’s a calling back to the roots of British soul, sound systems, subcultures and community.

Back 2 Life, Back to Camden

The headline act of the series is Back 2 Life Café, a Friday night fixture curated by none other than Jazzie B, the Soul II Soul founder, DJ, producer, and undisputed icon of British sound. Taking place each week at Hawley Wharf, from 5–8pm, it promises soul, reggae, funk and the unmistakable Camden electricity — all for free. You can book your spot here or simply walk in and let the basslines guide you.

As Jazzie B puts it:

"Camden Market has always had a unique energy, a real melting pot of culture and sound. To bring Back II Life Café here, curating a line-up with iconic DJs, is a powerful nod to Camden's enduring legacy. It's about celebrating that rich heritage of music and community that makes Camden Market truly special, delivering good vibration for everyone."

And he’s not wrong. Here’s a taste of what’s coming:

18th July – Jerry Dammers: Founder of The Specials and a true pioneer, Dammers kicks things off with a deep-dive into his vinyl vault. Think Jamaican ska, roots reggae, funk, soul and serious subcultural edge.
25th July – David Rodigan: The UK’s foremost reggae connoisseur needs no introduction. His vinyl set promises a proper masterclass in energy, passion and sound system culture.
1st August – Shy One: Representing the new wave of London sound, NTS Radio’s Shy One will mix deep grooves with future-forward dance beats.
8th August – Jazzie B: The man himself steps behind the decks for a rare set of soul, R&B, hip-hop and dance classics. Expect a master at work.
15th August – Tony Monson (Solar Radio) & Chris Baxter (Soul II Soul): A silky fusion of soul, jazz and expert rhythm from two legends of the airwaves.

A Summer Line-up That Hits All the Right Notes

The Summer of Sound doesn’t stop at DJ sets. Camden is bringing a dynamic mix of live tributes, rising stars and family-friendly entertainment – all entirely free to attend.

Here are the key dates for your summer diary:

20th July – Amy Winehouse Celebration: Jazz singer Lucy Randell and her band pay heartfelt tribute to Camden’s most famous voice. Book here.
27th July – The Big Sing: From Britain’s Got Talent to Camden Market, this community choir delivers feel-good anthems and euphoric vocals. Book here.
9th–10th August – Bollywood Mela: A weekend of South Asian rhythm, food, dance and family activities, including henna, face painting and giant puppets. Book here.
21st August – Carnival Warm-Up with Small Green Shoots: Camden’s rising stars take the stage for a Notting Hill Carnival warm-up. Perfect for all ages. Book here.
30th August – DJ Fat Tony (North Yard, Stables Market): The irrepressible DJ Fat Tony closes the series with a joyful, unforgettable set in Camden Market’s historic heart. Book here.
Weekly Family Fun Days (Wednesdays from 23rd July–20th August): From bubble shows and LEGO to crafting and theatre, Camden’s weekly family programming ensures the younger crowd aren’t left out. Book here.

More Than Just Music

Of course, this is Camden. Music is just one part of the experience. With over 1,000 traders, artisan brands, and global street food spots, Camden Market remains one of London’s most vibrant cultural playgrounds. Whether you’re dancing to a ska revival set, sipping a cocktail by the canal, or browsing vintage vinyl in the Stables, Summer of Sound invites you to dive headfirst into the very best of what Camden has always been — alive, eclectic, and unfiltered.

Explore the full Summer of Sound programme at camdenmarket.com