Down in the heart of Digbeth’s thriving music scene, I stumbled upon “Link Up,” Birmingham’s freshest spot for creatives to connect and vibe. Launched last month by the innovative team at Wailing Wanderer Events, this monthly gathering has already become a go-to for local talent. The focus? Diversity, nature, and mindfulness. Held at RMBL, a well-established venue, each event kicks off with a headliner and wraps up with an open jam where anyone can hop on stage with the house band. It’s a space that’s as much about the community as it is the music.

On Thursday, September 19th, I made my way down to RMBL on a perfect autumn evening. This particular “Link Up” was a collaboration with the venue’s Jazz Night, so we were treated to the smooth sounds of the BLCM Quartet right from the start. The moment I walked into the venue, I felt like I was stepping into a cosy living room rather than a music venue. With vintage leather sofas up front and house plants decorating the stage, the setup was as warm and inviting as the crowd itself.
As the space filled up, I caught up with the Wailing Wanderer team—Kev, Nikieh, and Lina. Just approaching them, it was clear how passionate they were about creating a welcoming space for creatives. Kev, a seasoned flautist from the Birmingham Conservatoire, mentioned how inspired he was by other local jams held in Digbeth, while Nikieh, emphasised the importance of building a “conscious collective.” Lina, fresh off the release of their debut single ‘U See Me Groovin’, rounded out the trio with their funky, vibrant energy. Their goal? To keep growing “Link Up” as a wellness hub for artists, a place where creatives can feel connected and supported.
After chatting with the team, it was time for the headliner, Lo Williams. As Lina introduced her with infectious enthusiasm, the crowd erupted in applause. Lo took the stage with a magnetic presence, delivering a soulful performance that felt like a warm embrace. Her set was a journey, starting with her original track “Why,” moving through a jazzy rendition of Sia’s “Little Man,” and closing with crowd favourite “Shimmer.” ‘Shimmer’ is Lo’s latest release that focuses on self-confidence and bringing out your inner vibrance. To add to the vibrancy of Lo and her band, Wailing Wanderer’s very own Kev joined her on stage with his flute, adding an ethereal layer to the whole experience.

During the break, I took a moment to chat with some of the attendees. Matt, a dancer from Performer’s College, called the event “incredible” and said he couldn’t wait for the next one. Music industry pros Julia and Alexia were equally impressed, highlighting how events like this are essential for networking and industry growth. The energy in the room was undeniable—people from all corners of Birmingham’s creative scene were coming together, sharing ideas, and making connections.
The night wrapped up with an open jam session, where percussionists, vocalists, and instrumentalists hopped on stage to play with the house band. The host of the night, Lina jumped in too, their vocals seamlessly blending into the rhythm of the instruments, adding vibrancy to the jam. It was a fitting end to a night filled with collaboration and good vibes.
"Link Up" isn’t just another music event, it’s an upcoming creative hotspot where people can meet, collaborate, and grow together. For anyone in and around Birmingham looking to be inspired, make connections, or simply vibe to some great music, this is one event you don’t want to miss. Keep an eye on Wailing Wanderer Events’ Instagram for their next ‘“Link Up”, they’re truly building something special.
WORDS ANI SIDDHU
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