A new cohort of talented music makers from across Liverpool City Region has been enrolled in one of the country’s leading talent development programmes.
Celebrating its tenth year, LIMF Academy has proudly unveiled its class of 2023/24 – with the seven recruits now joining an elite initiative, as they are guided and supported in to the music industry.
In-keeping with the past programmes, this year’s cohort offers an eclectic music mix, covering the genres of R&B, folk, pop and rap, each with bags of creativity that are waiting to be unleashed.
Aimed at emerging talent aged 16-25 years old, the Academy gives exclusive access to workshops, seminars, networks and specialist inside know-how, as well as the chance to perform at events across the country.
The seven unsigned artists will also benefit from a year-long initiative including a bursary, monthly masterclasses, showcases, bursaries, paid membership to the Musicians Union and PRS For Music, life-coaching, advice and an industry network. They’ll also benefit from performance opportunities.
The three ‘most ready’ artists, will receive extras such as additional financial support, year-round mentoring, the creation of professional assets and they will perform at LIMF Academy Orchestrated, the annual collaboration with the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company. The outstanding three are:
- DAYZY – A witty rap artist with ambitions to “build a bridge to the Liverpool rap scene” from his raw and open-eyed perspective.
- Hannah Morgan – Blending pop, R&B, and an adventurous style, Hannah delves into the concept of “suburban imperfection,” following in the footsteps of notable black female producers like Griff and Rachel Chinouriri.
- Superlate – Radiating positivity and infectious vibes, multi-instrumentalist, DJ, and producer Superlate infuses beachside melodies and spirited dancefloor anthems that epitomise the essence of summer.
Joining these three are introspective folk and pop singer-songwriter Euan Blackman, self-described “sad R&B” singer Faye Donna Francis, contemporary R&B artist Immi Dash and prolific rapper ssj.
For full biographies and videos of the most ready artists, please visit the LIMF Academy website.
Over the past decade 50 music creators have been lucky enough to be enrolled on the programme, with the Academy itself working with more than 5,000 youngsters to hone their skills and arm them with everything they need to be a success.
Playing a key role in why Liverpool was named UNESCO City of Music in 2015, dozens of artists who made it on to the programme have gone on to work with pre-eminent producers, get signed to major labels and publishers and tour with global superstars. One of those graduates is 21 year old Michael Aldag who was enrolled on the Academy between 2019 and 2021. Since then, he’s been signed to the 3 Beat/Universal record label, has supported Bastille and George Ezra on tour and has taken to the stage at this year’s Glastonbury and BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend, and will perform at Latitude this weekend.
Creative Consultant and the Academy Programme Director Yaw Owusu said:
“Since 2013 we have seen the Academy go from a peripheral element of the Liverpool International Music Festival to an essential offering for new talent in our region’s music ecology. It is now considered one of the best talent development initiatives in the whole country.
“I think it’s something the city, our music sector and our partners should be proud of, but we should be even more proud of the array of varied and amazing music creators who have come through the programme and who have used the Academy to reach higher heights in their burgeoning careers.
“As we move forward, we hope we can continue to do more to supercharge the creativity, careers and ambitions of all those who pass through the various Academy programmes.”
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:
“LIMF Academy holds a special place in Liverpool’s vibrant music ecosystem and is a crucial catalyst for emerging artists in our city.
“What’s on offer at the Academy really is extraordinary and offers unparalleled opportunities, expert guidance, and a supportive network that is invaluable when trying to make it in one of the most competitive industries in the world.
“The Academy team should rightly be proud of what they have delivered over the past decade – the programme has played an instrumental role in shaping Liverpool’s diverse music scene and has propelled local talent onto the national and international stage, contributing to the already rich musical heritage of our fantastic city.”
About LIMF Academy
LIMF Academy is a nationally recognised programme, and boasts support from and partnerships with the likes of BBC Music Introducing, BBC Radio 1Xtra, PRS For Music Foundation, UK Music, Musician’s Union and Help Musician’s UK. The Academy has grown to become one of the main platforms for developing and showcasing young artists and emerging talent across the UK.
In addition, recognition for the LIMF Academy has spread to the top of the music industry, with Liverpool International Music Festival being awarded the coveted Best Festival For Emerging Talent at the UK Festival Awards.
The LIMF Academy is one of PRS Foundation’s Talent Development Partners and is funded by Liverpool City Council and PRS Foundation.
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