8pm–10pm
Free entry

Join us on Friday 13 March for a special evening of live music as part of the launch of Becky Beasley: A Gentle Man (Part II) (1975-2029) Touring Exhibition.

Taking place is QUAD’s Café Bar, this free-entry event presents two distinctive Midlands-based artists for an intimate evening set, responding to the atmosphere of the exhibition.

Anya Deja

A BBC Introducing-recognised vocalist, pianist and singer-songwriter, Anya Deja crafts vivid, emotionally rich stories through a folky-soul sound. Her lyrical exploration, haunting vocals and instinctive improvisation create a dreamy, vulnerable atmosphere — pulling listeners into a sonic world that feels both familiar and uncannily new.

Drawing inspiration from artists such as Nina Simone, Björk, Alfa Mist, Portishead and Kate Bush, Anya’s work blends soul, experimentation and storytelling. Her singles Purgatory, Underwater and Men Who Deceive have received airplay on BBC Introducing Midlands, and she is currently developing a new body of work to be released throughout 2026.

Alongside her solo practice, Anya has supported artists including Floral Pattern and Stack Duncan, performing at venues across the Midlands such as The Bodega, The Hairy Dog and The Night Owl.

Simran

Simran is an R&B artist from Nottingham who fell in love with music through singing and immersing herself in the soulful greats. Currently on a journey to explore and refine her sound, she pushes boundaries through deeply personal songwriting.

Her music creates an emotional wormhole — a space where listeners can find comfort, connection and solace.