The Midlands are home to some of the most creative people in the UK. However, when based outside of the capital, it can be hard to come by the opportunities and connections that are needed to succeed.
Leicester-born RnB singer, Mahalia, has teamed up with the hot and emerging soul singer hailing from Birmingham, Madi Saskia, to launch their new artist development programme. The programme will provide artists with a range of industry workshops tailored for those based outside of London, as part of Dr Martens’ Tough As You initiative.
The I AM ME Development Programme was created by singer songwriter, Mahalia, alongside her mentee, Madi Saskia, who have both experienced the struggles that have come with being a creative based outside of London.
The pair wanted to provide support for these often overlooked artists, which inspired them to create a platform where local musicians would have access to the knowledge and skills essential to making it in the industry.
Through a range of workshops led by industry professionals, eight chosen artists will learn about the promotional skills, self confidence, and the media know-hows important for the world of music. There will be a press and media workshop hosted by BABMAG with Mahalia leading her own personal workshop on how to deal with your mental health as a successful musician.
The workshops will be taking place on the 3rd May at Illimitable Spaces, Birmingham, with the artists then performing at a live showcase on the 5th May, headlined by Sisters in Sounds at The Rainbow in Digbeth.
The programme has been made possible with the help of Dr. Martens and their Tough As You initiative, where the brand shows their dedication to creating opportunities for under-represented talent. They have provided I AM ME with the venues, industry professionals, and the funding each of the workshops, as well as the final showcase.
Through this programme, Mahalia and Madi want each of the artists to feel encouraged to create, promote, and perform their music, strapped with the empowerment and resilience to take on the music industry with full confidence.
👊🏼👊🏾 Go get’em we say!