South Asian Music Stars: New Scheme Tunes Up Fresh Talent in Wolverhampton!

Playback Creates, a new not-for-profit organization, has launched an exciting initiative called Homegrown to support emerging South Asian music talent in Wolverhampton and the Black Country. The scheme is designed to help up to 10 young musicians, singers, rappers, and producers between the ages of 16 and 30. The main goal is to provide these artists with opportunities that are tailored to their cultural backgrounds, something that has been missing for a long time in the region.

The Homegrown program will run for six weeks, starting in January and ending in February 2026. During this time, participants will have access to professional recording studios and receive hands-on mentoring from experienced figures in the music industry. They will also get the chance to perform at a final showcase event in March at Vaal & Vaal, where they can present their work to industry guests and receive valuable feedback. Each participant will spend two full days at APS Studios in Wolverhampton Arts Centre, where they will record, mix, and master a track to professional standards.

Dr Harpreet Singh Jandu, the creator of Playback Creates, believes that there is plenty of talent in Wolverhampton and the Black Country, but not enough opportunities for young South Asian creatives to develop their skills and gain visibility. He says that Homegrown is about changing the story for these artists and giving them the tools and support they need to succeed in the music industry. The project is funded by Arts Council England and has Punch Records as its industry partner. The opportunity is open to anyone from South Asian communities living in the area, whether they are musicians, singer-songwriters, rappers, producers, or beatmakers at an entry level. Applications can be submitted through the Playback Creates website. Dr Jandu hopes that this program will be the first of many and that it will help shape the future of UK music by giving South Asian artists a space to explore their voices and creativity.