ABOUT US

Unapologetic about Black music culture

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UD is a London-based music organisation bringing communities together around Black music and Black music culture. With over 20 years of experience in nurturing and supporting Black and culturally diverse artists when they need it most, UD acts as a bridge between burgeoning talent and the music industry.

At UD, we are passionate about excellence, and the potential for excellence in every young person we encounter. Aligning professionalism and business acumen with an understanding of youth and subculture, we run industry-led events, artist development and employment support programmes. Those that have come through our doors can now be found working at institutions including Island Records, Nike, Rinse FM, GRM Daily, Beats and SBTV. Artists we have helped and showcased at early stages of their career include Wretch32, Little Simz, Ghetts, Andreya Triana, Maverick Sabre, Dyo, Devlin, Labrinth, Skepta and Paigey Cakey.

Since 2000, when UD was co-founded by a group of hip-hop artists, we have understood that young people need the resources and space to create and explore their potential; UD works for a world where young people who make and love Black Music, are recognised as equal to any excellent creative individuals, and are celebrated and supported as such. Whether they’re on their first steps into music, just breaking into notoriously competitive creative environments, or about to make it big, we provide the tools they need: Excellence, confidence, structure, opportunity and networks.

United in development, UD stands for you.

“UD, a charity which provides support and advice to young people trying to make it in music … while its foundations are philanthropic it’s become a serious music industry player.”

The Guardian

Staff

Supporting the talent of tomorrow.

We are passionate that the London of the future is found in our organisation today.

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Board

United through excellence.

We are, and always have been, Black-led. 

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FUNDERS AND PARTNERS

Building industry alliances.

Recognised by the public sector for the social and cultural impact of our work.

Respected and rewarded by the private sector for the value we add to the commercial music industry.

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School Tour Paigey Cakey

IMPACT

Black youth music is the future.

Consistently evolving our programmes, UD connects with nearly 2,500 young people a year.

70%+ from communities experiencing racial inequality and socio-economic disadvantage.

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