Huge news from the EQ50 camp today as they launch their most ambitious project to date: A 12-month mentorship programme for 5 womxn (cisgender, trans, femmes, non-binary people) producers.
Undoubtedly the first mentorship of its kind within the D&B industry, it’s a crucial step towards equality and proper representation within the scene, with each producer in the mentorship programme placed with one of their inaugural partner record labels – Critical Music, Function Records, RAM Records, Shogun Audio and V Recordings.
Each label will be providing regular A&R sessions, production masterclasses with label-affiliated artists, valuable sessions on navigating the industry through publishing, digital, contracts and legal, opportunities to progress with the label, along with ongoing mentoring and industry representation.
EQ50 will also be providing invaluable support as an affiliated mentor for the duration of the scheme; offering practice DJ sessions in world-renowned UK clubs, space for peer-to-peer support and music sharing, booking agency masterclasses through ESP International, along with a range of additional masterclasses with established artists, managers and industry professionals.
Truly the stuff of dreams for any aspiring producer, and an incredible opportunity for the industry, too – setting a real benchmark in what it means to proactively facilitate positive change and inclusivity in a scene still built around a predominantly patriarchal structure.
Launching in 2018 as a response to gender inequality within drum & bass, EQ50 founders Mantra & DJ Flight – alongside organising members Sweetpea, MC Chickaboo & Alley Cat – have worked tirelessly in addressing the lack of diversity in the music industry, providing support through quality panel discussions, workshops, masterclasses and events. The mentorship programme sees them taking this crucial work to the next level, and we’re looking forward to meeting the talent they, along with their partner labels, will be nurturing.
Watch this space… (and of course apply via the link below if you have a passion for D&B, with a good level of production skills)
Applications are now open to UK-based womxn producers until Friday 7th August 2020 (23.59 BST) – APPLY HERE