PRS Foundation is hoping to follow the success of its Keychange initiative, which supports underrepresented genders in the music industry, with a new movement tackling anti-Black racism. It’s called ‘Power Up’, and is launching as a partnership with YouTube Music, Beggars Group and the Black Music Coalition, with the backing of a number of industry bodies.
The organisation says that more than 80 Black music executives and musicians are involved across its steering committee and focus groups covering various aspects of the business, and its work is kicking off with two programs.
First, a scheme for 40 people a year – 20 executives and 20 musicians – offering grants, mentorship and other support. Second, a movement arm to “set targets and apply industry pressure to increase Black representation, empower and advocate for Black talent and industry professionals”.
“Rather than finger point and fight the industry, I wanted to be able to work with, help, encourage and guide the industry into a more inclusive, representative and equitable music industry. This is why industry participation in Power Up is so important,” said co-founder Ben Wynter in a statement.
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