'I'm proud of Handsworth and to be British': Watch as Birmingham icon scoops major award
Reggae legend Apache Indian, known for his music and connection to Handsworth, expresses pride in his British identity.
Reggae icon Apache Indian spoke passionately of his pride in the Handsworth community that forged his globe-trotting career as he picked up an Honorary Music Champion award.
And as he accepted the accolade at the Multicultural Business and Community Champion awards, he also expressed his pride in growing up in Britain.
Watch the video for the full acceptance speech
The Boom Shak A Lak hitmaker was on the bill to perform a selected set at the star-studded awards on Saturday, November 29, when he was surprised with his trophy.
He said: “People ask me why I do reggae and Indian music. My parents come from the Punjab in India. My Nanny next door was from the Windrush generation. From a Jamaican household, I went back to a British household and then a British school.
“We are proud of where we come from, that culture, that story, that we’re taking around the world.
“We wave the flag for not just for Birmingham but for being proud to be British in this country.
“And we always wave the flag for how you need this great place of Handsworth in Birmingham.”
The MBCC awards are now in their 10th year. Actor Adrian Lester, EastEnders legend Rudolph Walker and broadcasters Vanessa Feltz and Eddie Nestor were also honoured at the glitzy evening at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole Hotel, as well as unsung heroes from around the UK.
MBCC Awards founder Zoe Bennett said: “Apache Indian is a true icon, a trailblazer and an inspiration for anyone who dares to dream. We were honoured to pay tribute not only to his phenomenal music career but also to all his wonderful work supporting a new generation of performers through outstanding mentorship.”