Original Culture Festival Carrying Rhino’s Legacy Forward

I’ll be honest – we live in a time where giving 30 minutes to watch a documentary feels like a challenge. Our attention is pulled in every direction: multiple screens, endless notifications, and constant conversations. I’m guilty of it too. But tonight, I sat down, switched everything else off, and watched a documentary about the founder of the Original Culture Festival.

And I’m so glad I did.

This wasn’t just a film. It was an intimate look into the life of a man whose love for music and people shaped everything he did. The late Rowan Forester – known to many as DJ Rhino Selekta – passed away in 2021 due to COVID, just two weeks before the very first Original Culture Festival. The documentary captures his story through the voices of his friends, family, partner, and daughter, along with behind-the-scenes moments that show the warmth, humour, and passion that defined him.

Rowan was more than a DJ. He was a walking musical encyclopedia – the person you’d call if you needed to know who produced a track, what year it was made, and what label it came from. When it came to bashment, he was unmatched. As one friend put it:

"He’s the bashment king. He’s the only person I know who could walk into a rave like he’d just been plucked straight from Jamaica and absolutely shell the dance."

Born and raised in Bedford, Rowan’s love for music began at home, surrounded by his father’s collection of soul, blues, reggae, and lovers rock records. By the age of 16, he was already DJing under the nickname “Rhino,” a school name that stuck. His style stood out – no fancy filters or effects, just pure skill, deep musical knowledge, and a genuine love for the sound.

In 2021, Rowan decided to turn that passion into something bigger. He envisioned a space for music, culture, and community – a platform where local artists could shine. That vision became the Original Culture Festival. Although he passed away before seeing it come to life, the festival went ahead as planned, transforming into a tribute that brought hundreds together – not just for music, but to honour the man whose dream had united them.

The Original Culture Festival continues as the foundation of Rowan’s legacy – an annual celebration of community, culture, and connection. It’s a place where people from all walks of life can come together for great music, food, activities, and shared memories.

This isn’t just an event. It’s a living tribute to a man whose passion left a mark on everyone who knew him – and even those who didn’t.

The team behind the festival is committed to growing it while staying true to Rowan’s vision. They welcome collaborations and partnerships with brands and entrepreneurs who share their values. If you know someone who could help carry this legacy forward, tell them about the Original Culture Festival.

Because when you understand the story behind something, it’s no longer just an event – it’s a reason to care. And this is a legacy worth caring about.

The Next Chapter

Original Culture Festival 2025

Mark your calendars: Saturday, August 16th and Sunday, August 17th.

Get ready for an electrifying Saturday lineup as fan favourites from previous events return alongside fresh new acts to bring you the ultimate music experience. From reggae to garage, house to R&B, jungle to hip-hop, expect high-energy performances that take you on a journey through the original cultures of music.

Then on Sunday, enjoy a day filled with live music, face painting, funfair rides, and children’s entertainment creating the perfect atmosphere for all ages to come together and celebrate.

The team behind the festival is also actively looking to partner and collaborate with business owners, entrepreneurs, and brands that share their values. If you know someone interested in supporting or sponsoring the festival, please get in touch. Together, we can keep Rowan’s legacy alive and continue building a vibrant, inclusive community through music and culture.

This year, the legacy continues.

In loving memory of Rhino Selekta

1984 - 2021