Amidst a pandemic that has seen a third of British Musicians seriously consider quitting music (Musicians Union, 2020), and at a time where almost all paid work has dried up, there has been little in the way of Governmental support and arts organisations across the country have had to step in.
In response to this, award-winning online radio station, Reform Radio, has devised a forward-thinking project that is providing seven paid opportunities at their record label, Rhythm Lab Records.
Reform Radio Director Jemma Tanswell offers – “at an unprecedented time like the one we find ourselves in, it is vital that organisations like ours are doing what they can do ensure the next generation of those wishing to work in the creative industries are able to continue to develop new skills and gain industry experience, despite the ongoing pandemic.”
The label has worked with artists as varied and prolific as Manchester-based Swing Ting, Mr Scruff and Iora, as well as a host of international artists working together via Zoom. Rhythm Lab Records has established a collaborative and artist-friendly tone in its short tenure as a label.
Seven young creatives have been chosen to learn, plan and execute the release cycle of ten tracks over four releases, between now and June 2021. The team will be led and supported by Mike Burgess who, since 2010, has supported over 900 creatives in navigating the music industry through his music industry advisory service, Sound With Mike.
Mike Burgess // Sounds With Mike
He says; “I’m really excited to be involved in supporting Reform Radio in delivering this opportunity to creatives across Greater Manchester at a time where many young people are really struggling to find valuable paid learning opportunities in the creative industries in the North of England.”
The pandemic has presented a challenge to the wider music industry that requires it to innovate and Reform Radio has committed to facing that challenge head on. Rhythm Lab Records’ newest chapter is a reflection of that commitment and true to form, the label will continue to align with the experimental and collaborative spirit of their previous projects and releases.
An announcement relating to these releases will be coming soon.
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