THE British Music Experience will be marking the 30th anniversary of the 1981 Brixton riot with two free panel discussions exploring the impact the event had on music.

Panic on the Streets will be held at The O2's acclaimed museum on June 7 and will allow participants the rare opportunity to engage with key figures and debate the impact of the riots and their legacy for today’s songwriters.

The day will be divided into two parts with panellists kicking off with an exploration of the contemporary protest song and then finishing with a debate on the heavy influence of the state on the musicians who gave voice to the movement.

Paul Lilley, curator of the British Music Experience, said: “If anyone thinks that popular music is just something to listen to in the car for fun, then I encourage them to come down to the museum and take part in one of these discussions.

"With the likes of Mykaell Riley, Pauline Black and Congo Natty on the panel, it’s sure to be a hugely informative, interesting and thought provoking day”

For more information, visit britishmusicexperience.com