Since the beginning of 2023, UD’s Incubator programme has been in full swing. The aim of UD’s Incubator programme is to develop the creative and business skills for talented, independent musicians emerging in the music industry. A six-month talent and career development opportunity for up to 10 exceptional independent artists, making music of Black origin, we’ve enjoyed the company – and sounds – of David GotSound, Arinola, Emiko, Dan Dannah, AE, Mar!k, Chrissy Day & Saiming.
As the Incubator class of 2023 come to the end of their extensive mentoring at Talent House, we revisit some of the programme highlights, kicking off with a look back at their February bootcamp…
Running over a week, many bases were covered. Monday kicked off with music sharing and an afternoon session courtesy of Chris Cooke (CMU), who gave a music industry oversight with Tia Johnson, Atlantic Records following with an introduction to marketing & PR.
On the Tuesday morning, we got into the legal side of things with Nick Eziefula, an entertainment lawyer with Simkins while the afternoon allowed for creative expression as Dionne Howell led a songwriting masterclass.
Chris Cooke had the group spend Wednesday morning looking at their live game. Joined by Milly Allen Management (Lava La Rue, A&R Def Jam), Mori Abdul (management for Fekky / live events company) & Whitney Boateng (Live Agent at WME), participants had the opportunity to ask the questions that really matter.
In the afternoon we welcomed a masterclass from Rxwntree, a multi-platinum producer and classically trained musician with a diverse, multi-genre approach who’s worked with Skepta, JHus, MoStack, Stefflon Don and more.
We’re also super happy that Rxwntree has recently joined UD as one of our Level 4 Course leaders (you can still apply via UCAS EXTRA until July 4th).
Thursday was all about distribution and navigating the route to market with Callum Hay, Head of Label Services, Ditto, sharing his knowledge bombs.
Mauro Borges, Creative Lead at EMI handled the brand development and creative direction side of things.
Finishing the week, Chris Cooke took us on a journey with SK & TK, Finesse Foreva, looking at artist management, strategy and business planning. The Friday afternoon saw ShezAr delivering a top tier creative performance workshop – the perfect way to let loose and close the week with performances from the 2023 Incubator co-hort.
Thanks to everyone who took part and shared their experiences with us.
Words: Team UD
Photos & videos: Saadiq T
