Sandwiched in-between the middle of the talks on the Friday Takeover for #IT2023, powered by Rio Ferdinand Foundation, Warner Music UK and Music Against Racism, were the music workshops. Taking place in UD’s studios, producer Rxwntree and singer/songwriter Zola Marcelle ran simultaneous workshops, emulating a studio session at an album camp…
Hailing from Hackney, Rxwntree is a producer who plays the piano and clarinet. He’s produced for UK rappers like Skepta and J Hus, he regularly works with MoStack and has also produced for Afrobeats artists like Tiwa Savage and Mr Eazi. His style incorporates the sounds of Afrobeats and always feels incredibly smooth. Budding producers watched eagerly as he demonstrated what he does and offered up pearls of wisdom to the eager future hitmakers in the room.
UD are also pleased to announce Rxwntree has joined UD as Course Leader (CertHE Music Technology & Production) for our new Level 4 courses, beginning September 2023 at Talent House. There’s still time to apply if you’re interested in furthering your skills!
Zola Marcelle was born in Zimbabwe and brought up in the UK, her soul-soothing tone and tender songwriting makes for a gorgeous listen. She’s also collaborated with the likes of Sheila Maurice-Grey from UD faves KOKOROKO and Daniel Casimir. Zola gave the singers and rappers keywords to implement in their lyrics and provided feedback on their work after they’d penned away at some cracking lyrics.
The sessions were accompanied by a youth leadership consultation & social media session with young people sharing their thoughts on racism, led by the Rio Ferdinand Foundation.
Words: Kat Friar
