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Power Up Initiative Launched to Support Black Music Creators

Power Up is a new ambitious, long-term initiative which will support Black music creators and industry professionals and executives, as well addressing anti-Black racism and racial disparities in the music sector.

Published: 17 February 2021 | 1:25 PM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:32 PM
Photograph of a drummer playing in silhouette against smoke and bright golden light.
The MU are proud to offer our full support and look forward to working together with Power Up to drive change and create a fairer, more representative music industry for Black musicians.

Set up and managed by PRS Foundation in partnership with YouTube Music, Beggars Group and the Black Music Coalition, the initiative brings together several music industry partners and goes beyond solidarity, with new approaches which foster meaningful change.

Through a holistic Power Up Participant Programme and the Power Up Movement, the initiative will break down barriers to create:

  • A fairer, more equitable music industry for Black creators and industry professionals
  • Better representation in all sectors of the UK music industry
  • To support innovative and exciting Black talent to create exceptional new music in all genres and at all career levels
  • To amplify the work of Black creators and industry professionals to accelerate change

Horace Trubridge, MU General Secretary, assured the MU’s full support for the plan:

“Power Up is a real opportunity for the music industry to work together to break down the structural barriers that limit the careers of Black professionals. The MU are proud to offer our full support and look forward to working together with Power Up to drive change and create a fairer, more representative music industry for Black musicians.”

Power Up is now open for applications. Find out more and apply online on the PRS Foundation website. The deadline for applications is 10 March 2021.

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Large up close 'Brighton' sign from Brighton Pier against a blue sky.

The MU Returns to Great Escape Festival 2024

As part of our work with the Council of Music Makers, the MU will be taking part in various panel events during the festival’s industry conference, which is being held 15 - 18 May in Brighton. Some of our Officers will also be available for one-to-ones for any members attending.

Published: 23 April 2024

Read more about The MU Returns to Great Escape Festival 2024
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