Stormzy’s Glastonbury Sign Language Interpreter Goes Viral For All The Right Reasons

Stormzy made history with his Glastonbury set this year, as the first black British solo artist to headline the main stage at the music festival.

The news didn't end there, though, because as the 25-year-old grime artist used his set to take jabs at the UK government fans began heaping praise on his sign language interpreter for her own performance.

Tara Asher is one of only four British Sign Language interpreters who specialises in grime lyrics for the deaf and hearing impaired, making her the perfect person to front Stormzy's incredible performance.

In particular, a clip of her smashing through the rapper's hit 'Shut Up' has earned her acclaim online after the BBC's entertainment correspondent, Colin Paterson, shared it on Twitter. As you'll see, Tara's passion and enthusiasm really shines through.

Colin Paterson/Twitter

Colin posted the video alongside the caption: "Only 4 British Sign Language interpreters in the UK are specialists in Grime. Tara Asher signed Stormzy's Glasto set for deaf festival goers.

"She rehearsed each song for a day. This is joyous. She LOVES her job. Have a watch please."

Dozens have commented on the video to commend the interpreter, including one Twitter user who wrote: "She doesn't just sign, does she? She lives it! WONDERFUL!"

Another said: "Phenomenal video summing up everything good in modern, inclusive Britain," while a third commented: "Magnificent - the way she performs the mood as well."

PA

Tara spoke to BBC Radio 5 about how she came to perfect her craft, stating: "I spend probably approximately a day per song translating it.

"Before I come here I print out set lists trying to work out what songs they are going to play, stalk them a bit on the internet and find out what's happening."

Not only did she translate the songs as they were playing, but she also interpreted the interaction between tracks so that those who are unable to hear can feel a part of the entire set.

A sentiment that was shared by one of the comments to the clip is that Tara represents a shining example of the need for inclusivity within the arts.

Hats off to Stormzy for his groundbreaking set at Glasto 2019, but also to Tara - a grime legend in her own right.

Topics: Viral, Entertainment, Music, Twitter, Stormzy

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Daisy is a UK-based freelance journalist with too many opinions. She loves everything film and music-related and has a track record writing for Little White Lies, BWRC, and Film Daily. Contact her at [email protected]