'When people couldn't find us, GRM Daily was there'

Fifteen years ago, finding new music, especially for grime fans, was quite a challenge. However, one YouTube channel, GRM Daily, emerged to change that landscape. Wretch 32, a prominent figure in the grime scene, recalls how vital GRM Daily was for artists like him. He stated, 'When people didn't know where to find us, GRM Daily was a hub for everyone to find us. ' This channel has been a cornerstone for celebrating black excellence in the UK, and Wretch 32 was among the first artists to be featured on it. He has appeared on the channel numerous times since its inception, and he appreciates the unwavering support from both the channel and its founder, Posty. Wretch has achieved significant recognition in his career, including a nomination for his album, Growing Over Life, at the Mobo Awards. The GRM Gala, an annual event, serves as a celebration of black excellence in the music industry. This year, the event took place in London and featured some of the biggest names in music, such as Giggs, Ghetts, and Ms Banks. Posty expressed his joy at being part of this celebration, saying, 'It feels amazing. ' He founded GRM Daily in 2009, and since then, it has evolved into what he describes as the 'epicentre of black British music in the UK. ' Posty acknowledged that grime music was already thriving before he started the channel, but he aimed to provide a larger platform for these artists. Today, GRM Daily boasts nearly seven million subscribers and has played a crucial role in launching the careers of many successful artists, including Central Cee. Ms Banks, another talented artist, highlighted the challenges that women face in the music industry. She pointed out, 'There's more barriers for female rappers. First off, we're a minority. ' She believes that societal expectations often limit how female artists are perceived and accepted in the industry. Alesha Dixon, a well-known artist, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of representation and authenticity in music. She praised artists like Little Simz for breaking stereotypes and being true to themselves. Alesha remarked, 'Isn't it beautiful to see a woman rapping that doesn't have to be overly sexualised when she's doing it? ' This conversation underscores the ongoing need for promoting female talent in grime and the music industry as a whole. The GRM Gala was not just a celebration of music but also a reflection of the progress made in the industry. Posty shared his vision for GRM Daily, stating that it was created to serve the community and provide opportunities for artists and creators. He expressed pride in the platform's ability to help people support their families and build a thriving ecosystem of talent. As the night unfolded, it became clear that the GRM Gala was a testament to the resilience and creativity of black artists in the UK, and it served as a reminder of the importance of continuing to uplift diverse voices in the music scene.