Incubator 2024: The Bootcamp

In April, UD commenced its annual Incubator Bootcamp for the second consecutive year, inviting professionals from the music industry to offer guidance and support to the 10 exceptional artists who make up the 2024 Incubator cohort.

Running across different days from April 18th to 26th, UD continued its mission to unite creatives and nurture their business skills in an ever-evolving and increasingly complex profession.

Thursday 18th April:

Attendees were warmly welcomed to Talent House, where they engaged in meet & greets and an introductory presentation by Chris Cooke, a leading expert on music rights and the global music industry, appropriately titled ‘The Music Industry: A Blueprint’. This was followed by a performance workshop and mini showcase to kickstart the bootcamp. The day concluded with an insightful Q&A session and networking opportunities, including speed dating with industry professionals.

Thanks to Alfred Afari (All Ears), Subira Cameron-Goppy (Networking, PR), Luke James Pascoe (Plug and Pattern), Ross Paryag (Anonymous Management), Callum Johnson (AIM), Humphrey Ogiesewu (CC Young), Domenico Scialo (Y Royalties), Pascal Balletti (MMF) & Joelah Noble (BBC 1Xtra/MTV) for blessing us with the knowledge!

Friday 19th April:

Chris Cooke took the lead with a session on ‘Music Rights & Revenues,’ covering various music rights and revenue streams. Following this, a songwriting, publishing, sync and legal panel featuring Terence Daniel (PPL), Pascal Balletti (MMF), Kenny Barber (PRS) and Nick Eziefula (Sinkims) was the order of the morning.

Friday also provided attendees with the chance to participate in a marketing and PR panel with Abisola Oke (August Agency). Tips and gems for days!

Wednesday 24th April:

Wednesday featured an artist strategy session facilitated by TK & SK (Finesse Foreva), delving into methods for meeting the unique needs and goals of artists from various industry perspectives. Attendees had the opportunity to expand on this knowledge during the practical session, which included personalised 1:1 advice and listening sessions.

Thursday 25th April:

Chris Cooke presented on distribution services and DSP’s with Rich Orchard (CD BABY), shedding light on the intricacies of making music accessible to listeners through different platforms and the diverse entities involved, from labels to streaming services to consumers. Attendees engaged in a follow-up Q&A session, gaining further insights.

Additionally, producer TSB led a practical session in the afternoon on “writing to a brief”, equipping attendees for real industry scenarios. Participants honed their skills by responding to a brief, recording their work, and sharing it with the group in the studio.

Friday 26th April:

For the final day of UD’s Incubator Bootcamp, Chris Cooke returned to share insights on gigging, emphasising its purpose in both growing a fanbase and generating revenue. This was followed by a Q&A alongside Whitney Boateng, Booking Agent at WME. Previously a promoter at Live Nation (and a woman of many talents), together, they expertly discussed the responsibilities and limitations of booking agents, focusing on identifying opportunities for new artists and addressing the realities of touring, including challenges such as ticket price surges.

“Music is the root.”

Whitney Boateng, WME

As an observer, one of my favourite aspects of the Incubator Programme is its ability to navigate the harsh realities of the logistical and business side of the industry while still championing and emphasising the importance of music and individuals. This was perfectly displayed in the Q&A followed by a dynamic performance workshop and showcase led by the multi-talented singer/ songwriter and vocal coach, ShezAr.

ShezAr entered the space with instant energy, taking the time to connect with everyone present, showing genuine interest in getting to know them and their passions. Her session was dynamic, integrating interactive elements like stretches and dynamic introductions to engage with the body’s role in performance. With synchronised deep breathing exercises and personalised actions, she fostered inclusivity and relaxation among participants, highlighting the importance of the body in musical expression.

Attendees were taught a chorus ending, featuring the lyric “There is a light that shines especially for you and me” from J Dilla & Common’s ‘The Light’. Split into three groups, participants had 15 minutes to collaboratively write and create their rendition of the chorus ending. The activity resulted in beautiful blends of styles as groups explored different rhythms and harmonies while also considering timing and delivery.

Friday concluded with performances from all attendees, showcasing the collaborative efforts and individual talents cultivated throughout the workshop. Each performance was followed with feedback, creating a supportive and constructive learning environment.

Preparing artists for The Great Escape Festival and the live performances involved, everyone was encourage to think about how they want to be perceived. “Every time you come to these sessions, come in as the artist you are…” Shezar noted. She created a dynamic space where everyone felt included and valued, giving attention to each individual, encouraging them to contribute to creating different sounds. Call-and-response activities, as well as clapping and stomping feet, added to the interactive and collaborative atmosphere.

Takeaways and Reflection

Zak Lansky, UD’s lncubator Programme Manager, highlighted the successful speed networking session, focusing on the importance of catering to individual needs and encouraging active participation. Singer-songwriter Izzy Withers, one of this years cohort, echoed the sentiment, expressing gratitude for the welcoming community and hands-on learning experience. Their positive reflections highlight the warmth and inclusivity of the event, leaving lasting impressions on all who attended, including myself.