As part of the Soundmind festival at Leeds Libraries, acclaimed rapper Testament, world champion DJ Mike-L and journalist Shine Steel present an evening inspired by the work of Leeds writer & musician Francis Steel.

Poets, singers and musicians use his work to explore themes of mental health and mindfulness through live spoken word, song, scratch deejaying, beatboxing, art and discussion.

Francis Steel was a prolific writer, artist and musician who was part of the music and literary scenes in Leeds for many years and passed away and earlier this year. Francis was prolific and his work was deep, thoughtful and full of hope – crossing mediums and boundaries. The wit and wisdom in his words, and the uplifting sounds found resonance within the scene, but Francis passed away before the publication of his first novel and latest album.

As someone who was affected by mental health issues, we use Francis’ work to celebrate the power of art and community as an outlet and way of navigating the world. Together some of the artists who collaborated and knew present his work and the legacy of his art. Expect a colourful array of different artists and art forms to uplift and inspire!

This is a pay how you are feeling evening show.

Performers include: Testament – Rapper, playwright & beatboxer (Black Men Walking, Orpheus in the Record Shop), DJ Mike-L – British turntablist legend (2022 DMC All Vinyl World Champ, 2019 DMC UK Champ), LeeSun – acclaimed Canadian-Leeds singer-songwriter, Chris Singleton – Spoken word & theatre artist (How to Be Better Human, Saboteur Award nominee 2022), writer & poet Sai Murray – Writer & poet (Peepal Tree Press, Voices That Shake) and many more.