To celebrate our 11th birthday we are treating you to a number of exclusive sets that were recorded at our party with ShinDigger last September at the Yard. Expect to hear the likes of Mr Scruff & MC Kwasi,Cooper T,Andrea Trout b2b Lena C, Obeka, Murder He Wrote b2b DR MYSTERY, Soundcamp 2023 alumni and many more. Tune in today from 4PM.
This year has also brought us another round of our Soundcampprogramme, funded by Youth Music, in partnership with Thirty Pound Gentleman. This time we welcomed over thirty aspiring artists to Reform Radio for a 2-week bootcamp and since then, we selected eight finalists to continue with six months of mentorship from industry professionals LayFullstop and Jack Kong.
This May we were back at one of our favourite festivals, Sounds From The Other City alongside Band On The Wall, curating a stage full of incredible talent at Peel Hall. We’ve also travelled to London to attend the prestigious UK ARIAS and won Silver in the The John Myers Station of the Year category.
We want to say massive thanks to our amazing team at Reform, our DJs, artists, Advisory Board, young people and audience for making Reform what it is today. Here’s to many more years.
It’s Mental Health Awareness Week 2024 – a 7-day initiative to help prevent mental health problems in the UK. In alignment with this, we thought it would be a good time to share with you our new audio-video project, ‘Am I Living Right?’.
Brought to fruition by our own Aisha Williams, ‘Am I Living Right?’ is a self-presented audio-video series. It records Aisha’s freeing journey informed by an overwhelming influence of social media. Our host takes the audience along with her through experiences of dating, ice baths, and more, to seek out the answer to her question.
‘Nowadays, those of us in our twenties are bombarded on social media with content which tells us how to live our best lives, how to to make the most of our twenties, and how to become the best version of ourselves… The information overload leaves you asking ‘am I living right?’.‘
Aisha Williams, ‘Am I Living Right?’ Presenter
We are proud to kickstart the series with our pilot episode out today. Join Aisha to look into cold water therapy and how the internet boasts it can change people’s lives. In the episode, Aisha is joined by her friend come TikTok content creator, HUMZ. The duo took to the banks of Chorlton Water Park for an ice bath. Meanwhile, they discussed how daily baths have positively impacted HUMZ’s mental health, alongside building an online cold water therapy community. Following this, more guests join Aisha for a fresh cold water dip, alongside chatting about modern-day self-care practices such as yoga, and meditation.
‘I would definitely do something like [a cold water dip] again. It felt like I was having an out of body experience and all I could think about was focusing on what I was doing. I needed to ground myself and be present in that moment to get through it.’
Ebony, guest on the ‘Am I Living Right?’ pilot episode
Intertwining our values of youth culture and well-being, this episode delves straight into the pressures of how young people are told to live their lives. However, Aisha brings a realistic approach to such conversations, welcoming audience to turn inwards and explore their own well-being practices. On Mental Health Awareness Week, we invite you to do the same. Now is the perfect time to think about what makes you feel good. If you don’t know where to start, maybe Aisha will inspire you with some of her discussions in this episode.
Check out the full pilot episode of ‘Am I Living Right?’ above.
Although we didn’t have the funds to complete the full series, we have hopes of doing so one day. If you think you can help make this happen, please get in touch with us on our social media or join us as a paying member of Reform Radio to support our work here.
Last night, we attended The Radio Academy ARIAS 2024. This year, we were lucky enough to be nominated for The John Myers Station of the Year Award alongside an incredible array of nominees. We are delighted to share we won silver in the category, with BBC Radio Manchester winning gold and Clyde 1 bronze. It was amazing to have some strong Northern representation for such an acclaimed award.
We’d like to take this moment to congratulate our unmatched team, and our community of DJs, creatives and young people. It is all of you that make Reform Radio one of the UK’s finest – it’s a true team effort. Huge congratulations to our fellow Mancunian station, ALL FM, for bagging Community Station of the Year too.
What an evening it was. Now, it’s time for some celebrations.
It’s time to meet the last two finalists of our Soundcamp 2024 cohort. After taking part in our Soundcamp bootcamp back in February, this duo were selected alongside six of their peers to join us for a further six months of artist development sessions. The eight participants have received direct mentorship with industry pros including Layfullstop, Jack Kong and Werkha, alongside honing in on their craft in a series of creative workshops. All attendees are working towards an evening of exclusive performances at The Blues Kitchen on the 15th of May. Grab your free tickets here.
Meet Alpha Twang and HAZZU below.
Alpha Twang
Hey I am Alpha Twang. I am a producer, I make electronic music and I also DJ as Summer’s Groove. You can find me on Instagram at @alpha_twang and you can find my music on all streaming platforms.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
I would say it’s storytelling with sound. I want to evoke feelings and take listeners on a journey.
What prompted you to get involved in Soundcamp and what are you hoping to achieve from it?
For me, I have spent the last few years as a bedroom producer. I saw Soundcamp as an opportunity to transition into live performance and to find ways to get my music out to larger audiences. The showcase on the 15th of May will be the perfect way to express my journey since starting to produce in 2019.
Where did your journey with music begin?
I started to produce within Ableton in 2019. Before that, I always knew I wanted to do something with music but I never felt like I could because I didn’t have any training in it. Between 2019 and 2020, I started teaching myself a lot through music forums, YouTube and Reddit. I started to notice myself really improving so I began working with other artists. Since then, I have done some residencies, some sound design commissions and now I am here at Reform doing Soundcamp.
Describe your creative process from starting to finishing a track.
One thing that I love about electronic music is that there isn’t a right way to go about it. I usually go into a project with it as a complete blank slate. I will watch a tutorial video first to see what area of production I want to explore through this specific track. I start experimenting and then hours of chaos begin. About halfway through the process, everything starts to coalesce into something and I hone in on that until I have a finished track.
Who are the main inspirations/influences for your sound and aesthetic?
My biggest influence in terms of music production is Arca. She showed me new portals of what you can do with electronic music, like using textures and creating three dimensional sounds. Flying Lotus is another one, and composers like Philip Glass, Hans Zimmer, Mica Levi, John Hassell and more.
If you could collaborate with anyone on a track, who would it be and why?
I think at this point in my career, I would love to work with a lot of the queer and upcoming electronic artists I know. For example, blood of aza, or Andras 2020. It would be a joy to work with these friends of mine from all of over the world. We all found each other through Arca’s Discord server in 2020 and we created multiple mixtapes together for charities with Arca herself. It’s called MUTANTS MIXTAPE; I recommend checking it out. But yes, I truly see these friends of mine as the future of electronic music.
What are your biggest goals/plans for your music in the future?
I would love to lean into sound production for movies and video games. However, I would also love to work with live instrumentalists. I am a huge classical music fan so it would be amazing to hear my work played by an orchestra. I also hope to continue honing in on the themes I’ve started exploring through my music, like identity, Manchester, and existing in the city as a Black person.
HAZZU
My name is HAZZU and you can find me on all streaming platforms. I was raised in Spain, I’m originally from Senegal, and now I’m in Manchester.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
People always describe my music as ‘a vibe’. I would also describe it as short and intense at the same time.
What prompted you to get involved in Soundcamp and what are you hoping to achieve from it?
I just want to grow as an artist. Music is my way of coping with both the good and bad in life. As an artist, I hope to personify all of these feelings and my journey. From Soundcamp, I think I will just go higher and higher on the road to being the best I can be.
Where did your journey with music begin?
My dad used to play Akon in the car, anywhere we’d go. I was instantly drawn to it as a kid. From then on, I fell in love with music. When I was about 10, I started writing short poems and four bars of words. I just kept going until I was able to write a full song. The first time I stepped into a studio was 2021 to record my first ever track.
Describe your creative process from starting to finishing a track.
It depends on how my day goes really. To create the beat itself, I will usually buy one thats already made, or I’ll head to YouTube and work from there. My writing process is very mixed. I usually start with the hook and build up from there.
Who are the main inspirations/influences for your sound and aesthetic?
I really like R&B music so some artists that inspire me include AKON, Ne-Yo, and Danny Brown.
If you could collaborate with anyone on a track, who would it be and why?
Currently, I would say Nemzzz. He’s originally from Manchester and we actually went to the same high school. I think my artistry can fit into any project so I definitely think it would work. Nemzzz’s music is something you can instantly vibe to, like mine.
What are your biggest goals/plans for your music in the future?
I just want to make an impact on people, no matter how small. I guess, when I’m not here anymore, I want to be able to reflect and know I have helped people.
Grab your free ticket to see Alpha Twang & HAZZU alongside the rest of the Soundcamp cohort live at The Blues Kitchen on the 15th of May here.
On the most recent Jorgy and Cheech’s Show, our pair of hosts welcomed Northern soul sisters Dischi to the airwaves. The Manchester duo have been making moves in the city’s underground scene, drawing inspiration from hip hop, disco, electronic and soul music. We were buzzing to have their infectious energy in the Reform Radio space, joining us for a chat and an exclusive live session.
Get a taste of the duo’s unique sound below and watch the full live session.
You can listen to the full episode of Jordy and Cheech’s show below.
Over the course of two weeks, participants for our acclaimed Music Course hopped into our series of workshops to create and collaborate. Funded by MAES, the programme walks attendees through the likes of musicproduction, social media and creative writing. Throughout the project, our participants worked on their own tracks to be debuted on Reform Radio in a one hour radio show.
Listen back to the show below.
We chatted with Jack and Yorusa who took part in the course about what they got up to, their musical influences, and where they’re heading from here.
Introduce your name, pronouns, and what you get up to in your free time.
Y: I’m Yorusha, my pronouns are she/they, and in my free time I really enjoy spending time with my friends and family, writing and reading, and watching films.
J: My name is Jack. My pronouns are he/him. I love music in all forms, whether it’s listening, creating or producing. I also love watching art-house movies and exploring Manchester.
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Y: Curious, conversational and humorous.
J: I would say determined, aloof and open-minded.
If you were stuck on a desert island and could only listen to one record, what record would you want to have with you and why?
Y: NAO’s ‘For All We Know’.
J: It would have to be Lady Gaga’s ‘Born This Way’. It’s the best pop album of all time.
Did you have much musical experience before the course? What’s your favourite thing about making music?
Y: I had a bit of experience with music and performing live. I really love performing and I spend a lot of time around artists too. Sometimes, I’m not creating music, I’m just having conversations about it with other creatives. It’s nice to have an idea and losing yourself in the creation. There’s so much chaos, and boundless possibilities in making music. You never know what is going to come out of you.
J: I’ve been involved in music for the past 12/13 years. I started producing when I was in secondary school when I should have been doing my homework. Since then, I have released some compilations and worked with some labels. I’ve mostly produced dance music, but I have also started to explore songwriting more recently. My favourite part of creating music would have to be getting the idea in your head down securely. Music is another language. It’s so freeing to be able to express an idea through it.
What prompted you to get involved with the Music Course?
Y: I really wanted to learn how to produce. I feel like you’re expected to know how to do so much as a musician these days. I was eager to learn about production more thoroughly, and also get to grips with technical terminology to be able to communicate more effectively with other creatives.
J: I wanted to get more experience in areas out of my comfort zone, like songwriting and lyricism. But, more specifically, I wanted to return to Reform. I recently did the Classical Connections project here and it was the most nurturing environment. I was ready to come back and embrace all of that again.
Let’s throw it back to your first day at Reform versus now, tell us a bit about your first impressions/feelings/emotions in comparison to how you feel now. What has changed?
Y: My skill set has definitely increased. I was experienced in music making, but I have learnt so much about the work that surrounds releasing music, such as promotion and marketing. I have the know- how now if I wish to take music further.
J: I think the main thing that has developed through my time on the project is my connection with others on the course. You start off knowing nobody, and now I have built such strong bonds with everyone. We all have a special connection now; we bonded over something we love.
Do you have any musical role models that inspire your practice and why?
Y: My friends. Even those around me in the room on the project. It’s been inspiring seeing how everyone has created music differently and noticing their differing approaches.
J: I really admire SOPHIE as a trans producer and DJ. Her music is so beyond anything my brain can comprehend and I’ll never forget her legacy. Daft Punk also inspire me with their clever use of sampling and their ability to build such a futuristic sound. We still don’t hear music like theirs now. Prince’s general artistry is also phenomenal.
When writing new music, where do you begin with the process and what inspires you to make a new track?
Y: It often happens for me when I’m just humming to myself. Either this, or I’ll be reflecting on a conversation I had and considering what I would’ve said. Once I’ve secured the words, I will start forming verses and rhymes here to build a bigger feeling and emotion in a track.
J: I tend to just get sporadic ideas coming to my head and I will quickly record them as voice recordings. When an idea comes to me, I see it as a gift and I know it’s fleeting so it’s important I get this down to log it. However, when I am producing dance music, going to the club is so inspiring to me. Being surround by that sound and space allows me to receive creative energy to then transfer into my own work.
What will you take from the Music Course moving forward & what are your plans from here onwards?
Y: I think it’s given me a lot of confidence. It’s made me feel like music is realistic for me to pursue in my journey. I am ready to push boundaries and make music of my own. I’d also love to do my own live shows and use movement in these sets.
J: An encouraging environment is priceless; that’s what I will take with me. I’ve learnt that being surrounded by positivity and support is vital to my progression. I’m really grateful to have been able to attend this project. Now, I’m keen to collaborate with other songwriters and producers to help them flesh out their ideas as well as my own.
We’re back to introduce you to two more of our Soundcamp finalists, funded by Youth Music, in partnership with Thirty Pound Gentleman. In case you missed it, we kickstarted our 2024 Soundcamp programme back in February, inviting thirty participants into Reform to take part in a two week bootcamp. To support them with their music creation, we had industry pros Layfullstop, Jack Kong and Werkha in the space. From production support to providing their musical ears, the trio gave our attendees an array of great advice to take with them.
Eight of our participants were chosen to continue their journey on Soundcamp, through our six month mentorship initiative. These finalists are joining us every week for focused artist development, musical workshops, and a dedicated space for their creative practice. Meet Ishola & Sarah, two of our artists, below.
Known Konopka
I’m Sarah Konopka, also known as Known Konopka. My pronouns are she/her. I produce techno-house music and I’m also a DJ. You can find me on SoundCloud and on all social media.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
My music is a journey. It starts off emotional and then you’re on a high by the end of it. It’s my job to change your emotions through listening to my tracks.
What prompted you to get involved in Soundcamp and what are you hoping to achieve from it?
I came to Reform’s other courses, like Music and DJing. I had never received so much acknowledgement for my music and creations before. It was only then that I realised I could actually do Soundcamp. I was ready to receive more feedback and get input from professional mentors. All of my music prior to this, I had done completely on my own. I taught myself through YouTube tutorials and videos online. Already, I am noticing the difference from the 1-2-1 support I am receiving, learning about what equipment is actually out there, and what opportunities are out there. From the project, I hope to achieve getting my music in the right places and hands to make progression happen. I also just want to perform; it’s my favourite thing to do.
Where did your journey with music begin?
My need to create music has come from my need to express and shift my own personal difficulties. I like to think that people can hear this through my work and relate to it and feel heard. Music helped me and I hope my music can help others too. I’ve been listening to house since I came out of the womb. However, I couldn’t sing at all. I could dance, but I never knew I could translate this into actually making music myself. After buying my first DJ decks at the age of 18, I started mixing tracks that I hadn’t heard anyone mixing together before. I delved into DAW and downloaded some free softwares and I soon realised the beat and rhythm I had from dancing, could then be translated into mixing. This is where it all began.
Describe your creative process from starting to finishing a track.
It’s always different depending on the track. I don’t put pressure on myself to create because I trust it’ll come to me. For example, this Soundcamp track came to me at 4am. I couldn’t sleep and I kept hearing this specific noise in my head. So I tried to mimic this on my keyboard and then started building the track from there. It’s a really natural process, which keeps me up at night.
Who are your main inspiration/influences for your sound and aesthetic?
Fred Again is definitely a huge inspiration for the sound I am trying to achieve and wanting to take people on an emotional journey. He also taught me that there’s no rules in music and you can produce however feels right for you. I also like Dom Dolla and, of course, Peggy Gou. However, I’d also say Harry Styles is a huge inspiration for me. Not genre-wise, but he inspires me in knowing I can be whoever I want to be. He empowers me to be myself and be the unique person I am.
If you could collaborate with anyone on a track, who would it be and why?
I have two artists in mind. The first one I’d say is Cat Burns. Her music is so emotional and moving so it makes a good fit with the sort of stuff I create. But then also Aitch. He would bang on a house tune, we’re both from Manchester and it would be amazing to produce a song for him.
What are your biggest goals/plans for your music in the future?
I want to be at Parklife, and I want to be at the Warehouse Project. That’s where my music would be best suited and received. One day, I will be there.
Ishola
My name’s Ishola, my pronouns are he/him, and you can find me on Instagram and TikTok at @isho1a.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
I would describe my music as a fusion of past and future hip-hop. I draw heavy inspiration from both the UK and the US scenes. My music is something you can vibe to as you’re walking through the city, but also blast out of your speakers on a late night drive down the motorway. I like to think my music can fit any kind of scenario or environment.
What prompted you to get involved in Soundcamp and what are you hoping to achieve from it?
I was looking for more opportunities to grow my network in the music industry after leaving university, where I studied music production. I’m an engineer and a producer, but this comes from me being an artist myself. When I found out about Soundcamp, I thought it would be the perfect chance to meet new creatives, meet like-minded people who I can grow with, and meet individuals who can guide me and keep me on the right path. I have confidence in my own abilities, but it’s also nice to gain the approval and validation of professionals in the industry. Working with the mentors has really helped me tackle imposter syndrome. It has also offered me useful insights, nuggets of knowledge, and has allowed me to absorb their experiences.
Where did your journey with music begin?
I’ve been doing music since I could walk. I vividly remember coming home from school one day and my parents saying I needed to learn an instrument. So I decided to take up the piano, and progressed through graded exams. As I got older, I felt restricted by classical training and I was exposed to more methods of expression through music. For example, I discovered music production and technology. My mind was blown and I fell back in love with music. I’m really grateful that learning the piano laid the foundations for me to grow musically and really explore it. The journey is only just beginning now.
Describe your creative process from starting to finishing a track.
This question is a bit too linear for me. There’s no start and no end in the creative energy. A song can start from me walking around town listening to bossa nova, subconsciously listening out for samples. It could also start on the bus, writing random lyrics. I feel like I’m constantly drawing inspiration from things around me to influence different areas of my creative practice. Then I can piece these little creations together. Some lyrics I wrote last week could fit a beat I made today; a song comes out of the universe. There’s no start and end; it’s the cycle of music.
Who are your main inspiration/influences for your sound and aesthetic?
One of my biggest inspirations is my father. He was an old school man and grew up through the golden ages of mankind from the 60s to the 80s. He was really into fashion and I was brought up around that so it naturally rubbed off on me. The music from those eras, like Marvin Gaye, Prince, and Luther Vandross, combined with the greats of the early 2000s impacted me. The music I create today takes from these times, as well as the new wave of hip-hop, like Lancey Foux and Skepta. On the other side of the ocean, we have A$AP Rocky, Lil Yachty, and more. There’s a plethora of people within Black music that I am constantly motivated by.
If you could collaborate with anyone on a track, who would it be and why?
In the UK, it would have to be Skepta. This is simply because of his notoriety, the work he has done, and the respect I have for him. What he represents as an individual – fearlessness, complete and utter confidence in his craft – is hugely inspiring to me. I’m also loving what Lil Yachty is doing. He is the perfect bridge between underground and mainstream hip-hop. It would be a blessing to be introduced to these two individuals’ audiences.
What are your biggest goals/plans for your music in the future?
Besides the obvious goal of touring internationally, I would love to get into scoring. It would be magical to compose music for fashion shows. Being respected as a composer as well as a hip-hop artist would be incredible. I have massive respect for Tyler, the Creator and the way he has made the crossover between being an artist, to being a reputable composer. It would be beautiful to move listeners’ emotions and manipulate individuals into feeling certain things with my music.
Grab your free ticket to see Known Konopka & Ishola alongside the rest of the Soundcamp cohort live at The Blues Kitchen on the 15th of May here.
Recently on the HYPE THEM show with kaoti and sheri, we welcomed North West artist Jenni Orlopp to the studio. Jenni joined them for an exclusive live session alongside a chat about her journey and experiences as a female in the industry.
Listen to the full show below.
With her soft vocals, soothing melodies, and catchy pop beats, we have had Jenni’s tunes on repeat ever since. We caught up with the musician come producer to find out more about her creative practice and inspiration. Read the full interview below and check out her full live session.
What’s your name, pronouns and your star sign?
My name is Jenni Orlopp (she/her), and I’m a 21 year old singer, songwriter and producer based in Manchester. I’m originally from the North East. My star sign is Leo, but I’m actually not sure what that means – I’ve been told that I don’t fit the description that well.
If you had to describe your music in three words to someone who had never heard it before, how would you describe it?
“Bit of everything”.
Where did your journey with music begin?
I started getting really into music through my parents and sister. They had this huge CD collection and I was just obsessed with listening to it over and over. Eventually I started learning instruments at school, and found songwriting and producing through that. I used to record myself playing the clarinet and then play the drums over it on Garageband. I’d also play around with the novation launchpad app and make beats using loops and random sounds.
Have there been any important figures or role models in your musical journey or any that have inspired your sound and aesthetic?
When I was younger, I got really into hip hop and rap and I think that definitely started my love for fashion, especially streetwear. I have a picture of me from when I was really little. I have on the baggiest jeans possible and this sideways pink cap because I wouldn’t let anyone else dress me. Music-wise, I’m definitely inspired by jazz. It’s the foundation of so many genres and artists. I think there are very few musicians that haven’t been inspired by it in some way.
Where do you find inspiration for your creativity?
I go through phases of being inspired by absolutely everything for a while, and then nothing.I definitely find inspiration in different things when it comes to lyrics versus production – I have so many half finished songs with no backing tracks, and drum loops with no instrumentals. I’m most creative when things are happening in my life though. Emotions are definitely the best source of inspiration for me.
How does your writing process look?
Back in 2022, I wanted to get better at songwriting, so I challenged myself to write 5 songs a week for the whole year. My routine became playing a backing track on repeat and writing down whatever came into my head, and then repeating the process again, but only picking out the good bits of my previous attempt. Sometimes writing songs is hard because you don’t want to write down a bad lyric, but that process made me realise that perfection isn’t realistic. Writing down a bunch of terrible ideas helps to bring the good ones out. I either write my songs based on an idea from doing that, or they write themselves in less than an hour – I don’t really have an in between.
What do you see for the future of your music? Do you have any particular goals you’d like to achieve with your creative journey?
Last year, I performed at the Eurovision Fan Village and the whole experience was just amazing. Since then I’ve decided that I’d love to perform at a festival. Other than that I’m just seeing what happens. Most of the best moments in my career so far have been opportunities that I didn’t even know existed a year before, so I don’t really like to plan too far ahead.
Where’s the best place for people to find you on social media and to find your music?
I’m the most active on Instagram – @jenniorlopp. My handle is pretty much the same everywhere. You can find my music on all major platforms.
You can catch HYPE THEM bi-monthly on Thursdays on the airwaves of Reform Radio, tune in via website or on DAB in Greater Manchester region.
Soundcamp 2024 is well on its way, funded by Youth Musicand in partnership with Thirty Pound Gentleman. We held a two week bootcamp in February, with over thirty aspiring musicians in the Reform Radio space collaborating and working on their crafts. Throughout the bootcamp, they received support from our exclusive mentors, Layfullstop and Jack Kong.
Following our bootcamp, eight participants were selected to take part in Soundcamp’s six month artist development programme. Each week, in the lead up to our Soundcamp Showcase on the 15th of May, we will be introducing you to two of our selected finalists. This week, get to know kaoti and DREIXSS below.
kaoti
My name is kaoti, my pronouns are they/them. You can find me on all streaming platforms and on Instagram as @kaotiiii.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
You’re in for a ride and you’re about to have your ears blown off by this beautiful chaos. My music is like popping candy, or a pinball machine in your head. It’s full of heavy bass that you can screw your face at and lots of break-beats and drums to move to. There’s lots of high flute and twinkly sounds to balance out the low frequencies too. In the lyrics, you can expect anything from heavy rap to soft poetry. We have it all in the kaoti-sphere.
What prompted you to get involved in Soundcamp and what are you hoping to achieve from it?
I got involved in Soundcamp because, simply, I love making music. It was an amazing opportunity to even get to attend the Bootcamp. I’m hoping to understand the industry better, get myself out there more, find people that vibe with my sound, and make new musical friends. I’m a big believer in trade. I want to trade energy and creativity with new creatives and see where it takes me.
Where did your journey with music begin?
Like any small pop punk kid, I wanted to be Avril Lavigne. I wrote some very angsty and angry lyrics. Then, I started to mash up songs together and make videos singing them when I was as young as 10. It all started there.
Describe your creative process from starting to finishing a track.
Sometimes it starts with me freestyling over a beat; other times I will have a funny phrase and shape a whole song around it. I’m also a big fan of concept pieces. For example, I wrote a song about my pink car last week. My creativity comes from so many different places, but it always ends up going through the motions of trial and error to create a full song. Currently, I start with a beat and then go on a spiritual process of acknowledging what sounds and, then, words feel right. This process has really improved my freestyling abilities too. After this, I will go back and fine tune the track. I’m really enjoying the journey of seeing what comes out of me, working independently, and listening to myself before sharing my work for feedback.
Who are the main inspirations and influences for your sound and aesthetic?
It’s hard to put my sound in a box and it has qualities of a huge range of music I listened to growing up. My attitude is inspired by punk and rock music heavily. My rap is actively inspired by Eminem and Tyler, the Creator. However, I also love drum and bass and higher BPM music to get moving to, alongside hyper pop and glitch-core artists like Grimes. There’s a huge fusion of sounds and inspirations within my music.
If you could collaborate with anyone on a track, who would it be and why?
I would have to collaborate with Tyler, the Creator and experience working with him. Ashniko and I could also smash a track together, or even Cookie Monsta.
What are your biggest goals/plans for your music in the future?
I know I’ve mentioned Tyler a lot, but I would love to follow in his footsteps of combining fashion, art, film and more. It would be a dream for my music to expand to form a whole world of creativity – the ‘kaoti-sphere’.
DREIXSS
My name is Idreiss, also known as DREIXSS. My pronouns are he/him and you can hit me up on any streaming platforms out there to hear my music.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
I would just describe it as ‘DREIXSS’. I’ve picked up influences from music I listen to and the music my parents brought me up on. I like to think of my music as a collection of timeless classics.
What prompted you to get involved in Soundcamp and what are you hoping to achieve from it?
I heard about Soundcamp through Kong, one of the mentors on the project. He was really encouraging and it filled me with confidence to get involved. When I looked further into Reform Radio and what they did for the community, I was even more keen to be part of Soundcamp and share the room with such talented people. I am really hoping to use this time and involvement with Reform to build a strong foundation to move onto big things.
Where did your journey with music begin?
When I was a kid, my parents used to play the classics – my mum was a massive George Michael fan, and my dad was a proper Ministry of Sound raver. They shaped my ideas of music. It all started out with me singing in choirs as a kid, but it never felt like the real me. I liked singing, but I didn’t like what I was singing. I started listening to garage and DJ music and then I discovered R&B, rap and trap. It’s been a journey so far, and it doesn’t look like it’ll be slowing down any time soon. I’m excited to see where it ends up going.
Describe your creative process from starting to finishing a track.
As a creative process, it all starts off in a similar way – I have to connect with the music. It might start with a line in my head and then I’ll start building it from there. Or I will find a beat I love and start writing lyrics to this. It simply just has to start with something I connect with and I’m feeling.
Who are the main inspirations and influences for your sound and aesthetic?
Obviously I have inspirations, but I like to think I am an individual and I am true to my own unique sound. I’ve been very influenced by Ne-Yo and Usher, but I also love the UK scene. Bugzy Malone is another great example of someone I appreciate. I love what he addresses through his music and the messages he shares. I hope I can form a community of people that resonate with my work like he has.
If you could collaborate with anyone on a track, who would it be and why?
I’d have to go with D-Block Europe. What they’ve built all by themselves and by being their unique selves is hugely inspiring to me. I love their music and I love the community they’ve made so organically.
What are your biggest goals/plans for your music in the future?
My biggest goal is getting as many people to hear my music as possible, building a solid fanbase and foundation for my future in the industry. I want to walk down the street and hear people playing my music out their cars. I want DREIXSS to be heard by as many people as possible.
Grab your free ticket to see kaoti & DREIXSS alongside the rest of the Soundcamp cohort live at The Blues Kitchen on the 15th of May here.
Back in February, we kickstarted Soundcamp 2024, funded by Youth Music and in partnership with Thirty Pound Gentleman. Soundcamp is our in-house artist development programme. To start this year’s project, we welcomed over thirty young people aspiring careers in music to create and collaborate on their own musical projects for our Soundcamp Bootcamp. Through the process, they received 1-2-1 support from industry professionals Layfullstop, Jack Kong, and Werkha. Meanwhile, they got led through sessions on production, music business, and more.
Eight of our attendees were selected to join the full Soundcamp programme at Reform. The finalists are receiving 6 months of music mentorship from industry pros, performance opportunities, and direct support with their unique crafts. Now, they are taking to the stage on the 15th of May at the Blues Kitchen to share all they’ve been working on at our exclusive Soundcamp Showcase, and YOU can join us.
Get a taste of what you can expect from the lineup below, as we introduce you to our first finalists of this year’s Soundcamp.
Jennifer Dala
My name is Jennifer Dala, my pronouns are she/her and I am a singer and songwriter. I’m planning to release some music later this year so you’ll finally be able to hear what I’ve got in the works.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
My music is a mixture of Joni Mitchell and Tracey Chapman with its combination of acoustic and synth. My sound has been shaped by soul, indie, alternative and jazz music.
What prompted you to get involved in Soundcamp and what are you hoping to achieve from it?
I was taking part in any music courses I could to challenge myself and meet other like-minded creatives. What I’m hoping to achieve from the programme is to collaborate with other musicians to push my craft further. Soundcamp looked like a welcoming and supportive space to explore my musicality thoroughly. It’s been really useful to me so far and I’ve already learnt so much more than I expected to.
Where did your journey with music begin?
I’ve always loved music and, as a child, I had piano and guitar lessons. I knew for a long time that I really wanted to be an artist, but it was only in my 20s that I properly started exploring this. Since lockdown, I’ve been playing the guitar a lot more and really shaping my sound to get to where I am today.
Describe your creative process from starting to finishing a track.
It’s mainly improvisation to me. When I first listen to an instrumental, I will improvise over this by humming and creating melodies. From there, I can write my lyrics. I don’t really write with intent; I like to just see what comes up for me. When I first started writing music, I would write a lot about heartbreak, but now I write about existentialism and my shadow self. I think this development is only possible when you truly allow yourself to be open with your songwriting.
Who are your main inspiration/influences for your sound and aesthetic?
Amy Winehouse and Joni Mitchell are two of my main influences. I love Joni Mitchell’s vocal melodies and her incredible songwriting capabilities. Amy Winehouse was definitely one of my earlier influences. I loved her voice and dug so much into her lyricism. In terms of my aesthetic, I just like being comfortable and expressing myself authentically. I would say Lauryn Hill is my main inspiration for this.
If you could collaborate with anyone on a track, who would it be and why?
I think it would have to be Sampha. I would love to write songs for artists and I think Sampha has the perfect distinct sound I’d want to create for.
What are your biggest goals/plans for your music in the future?
My biggest goal is to release my own EP, but also to write songs for bigger names.
FREEQUENCY3
Hey, my name is FREEQUENCY3 and my pronouns are she/her. People can find my music everywhere, on all streaming sites, in places I probably don’t even know about.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?
My music takes listeners on a journey through the ripples of life and all of its nuances. From experiences of relationships with others and yourself, to helping people deal with the shifts in life, my music encourages people to tap into feelings they have been avoiding. However, at the same time, you can bust a little two-step and get on a vibe to my tunes too. I’ve got a nice eclectic range of sounds, songs, hooks and melodies and lyrics to enjoy. You can make new meanings of these tracks each time.
What prompted you to get involved in Soundcamp and what are you hoping to achieve from it?
I first joined Soundcamp in 2021 when a lot of changes were happening in my life. Much of the time, I was in pain and I had no idea why. I joined the project initially to challenge myself and be in a room with different people to create and collaborate with them. I found it quite overwhelming and I didn’t get through to the final eight artists. So I decided to come back and try it again now I have a full diagnosis regarding my health and can manage my body better. This time, I have been selected as a finalist. The biggest blessing so far has been being able to work with Layfullstop, Jack Kong, Werkha, and other mentors. They are all people I have looked up to for many years. So, for me, it feels like a real honour to even be able to share the room with these people and have conversations about my art with them. I am learning from their experiences every week. I hope to achieve more dynamics in my art from these new perspectives.
Where did your journey with music begin?
My journey began when I was very young; I’ve always loved music. My mum would always be playing music in the house and my uncle was in a band so I used to do raps with him. It all stemmed from there. My journey to being an artist began in 2021 after I DJed at Parklife Festival. The morning after playing, I woke up with severe nerve pain and it took me two years to get a diagnosis. During that time, my whole life changed and I was in severe pain every single day. I lost all the things I was making a name for myself doing. I realised the one thing that ran through all the things I had been doing was music, so I decided to tap back into my inner child and start making beats and raps again. People responded to it well so I thought I’d keep writing and explore these difficult feelings through music.
Describe your creative process from starting to finishing a track.
If I’ve got a beat that’s already there then I will freestyle over it continuously and find a flow I like. Then I will either write the lyrics over the freestyle, or if I am struggling with finding lyrics, I will choose five random words and write around these. There’s a lot of back and forth in my process, correcting and perfecting things. Since starting Soundcamp, I have been more open to approaching tracks in different ways. I feel like I now consider the structure of songs more thoroughly and specifically.
Who are your main inspiration/influences for your sound and aesthetic?
For my sound I’d say J. Cole, Noname, WESTSIDE BOOGIE, Mick Jenkins, Big Sean, but also many of my friends are so talented musically and inspire me. I love artists that can really paint a picture.
If you could collaborate with anyone on a track, who would it be and why?
Right now, I’d love to make a song with Layfullstop. Internationally, I think Smino, Chance the Rapper or Noname.
What are your biggest goals/plans for your music in the future?
One of my biggest goals is to be consistent. It’s really hard to do this when you have a health condition that varies. I’d also love to perform more and do another headline show. I want to show people I am more than just a one-dimensional rapper. I want to show I can make hooks, I can make songs that are going to stick in my head, I can put on a beat, and I can say things that are important. Also, I want to make sure I connect with those that support me a create a solid community.
Grab your free ticket to our Soundcamp Showcase here to witness the pair above live, alongside the rest of the programmes cohort.
Get yourselves ready to hear some of Manchester’s emerging talent as we bring you this year’s Soundcamp Showcase. Taking place on the 15th of May at Manchester’s Blues Kitchen, come along and submerge yourself in some of the city’s freshest sounds.
Since February, we have hosted an array of upcoming music artists at Reform Radio, in partnership with Thirty Pound Gentleman and funded by Youth Music. From over 30 participants at our Soundcamp Bootcamp, to our eight finalists consistently working every week, some incredible collaborations and creations have been born in our space over the course of the programme. Attendees on the project have had the chance to work with industry professionals including Layfullstop,Jack Kong and Werkha. Meanwhile, they have been led through workshops on the likes of production, songwriting and more.
On the line-up, you will be treated to the house-infused sounds of Known Konopka, the cool, calm and collected energy of Ishola, alongside the effortless bars of FREEQUENCY3, and the intimate story-telling qualities of Alpha Twang. Meanwhile, meet the multi-dimensional boundless creations of kaoti, the R&B fusions of Hazzu, DREIXSS and the soothing and soulful tones of Jennifer Dala.
Now, we welcome you to join us in hearing the tracks they have been perfecting for their live debuts on this exclusive night oozing with talent.
Check out the flyer below for the full details and come join us in seeing these Manchester names before they get big.
From radio broadcasting and podcast production, to creative course facilitation and talent development programmes, we are certainly busy bees here at Reform Radio. Whilst you may have seen us operating in numerous areas, we wanted to give you a rundown of what we do and introduce you to our amazing Engagement Team, who you will definitely come into contact with when joining one of our creative courses.
About Us
Reform Radio is an award-winning radio station and arts organisation based in Manchester’s Bonded Warehouse. We use our station to engage young people of all walks of life and support them into employment. We work with a lot of local and international DJs as well as creatives to showcase their work via our platforms. Not only does this give individuals valuable experience working with a radio station, but it also allows us to share and broadcast a diverse range of voices and some of the best emerging talent on our airwaves. Since our formation in 2013, we are proud to have created an invaluable community of individuals, driving collaboration to create all of our content with people right on our doorstep, to across the globe. You can find out more about our journey throughout the past decade here.
Our Courses
Throughout the year, we also hold a rotation of fully-funded creative courses for young people. With the support of some incredible funders, and as a National Portfolio Organisation of Arts Council England, we are proud to deliver programmes in a variety of areas, utilising our industry-standard facilities. Our rotation of courses and development programmes include: Podcasting, Music, DJ Sessions, Soundcamp, Radio, Creative Leadership, Well-beingand Creative Writing. However, we also hold a number of sessions throughout the year in the likes of content creation,sustainability,money management, and employment skills.
“I’m really impressed that these courses even exist, to be honest. I think as I’ve progressed through the project I’ve been continuously surprised at the quality of its delivery and the amount of care and well-being support you guys offer to participants too. It’s an incredible initiative which encourages young people to really create something they are proud of.”
Joanna (she/her – participant of High Rise course)
Whilst our participants have the opportunity to learn the technical skills associated with their courses’ areas, we also aim to hold a safe place for them to create and work together. Our workshops blend the necessity for attendees to gain practical techniques via softwares and industry equipment, alongside our desire to support their personal growth and development. Many of our community notice an increase in their confidence levels and social skills.
“On the first day of the course, I was in my own head and couldn’t even speak out loud to the group. However, I have come out of my shell so much and really pushed myself to chat to everybody and get to know them. I feel sad that the course is nearly over now after growing in confidence with everybody and making some great friends with people I would never usually meet.”
Violet (she/her – participant of Radio Course)
We have a designated Engagement Team to support the young people joining us at Reform, who have a wide array of experience to contribute towards teaching and leading our programmes. Meet the full team below!
Meet Our Engagement Team
Our Reform Mentors (Adele, Imogen and Lola) are here to support the young adults that we work with. Mentors provide support from the moment someone gets in touch with Reform Radio until 6 months after they finish participating in one of our courses or programmes. Mentors take time to get to know the participants, and to understand the barriers that stand in their way to achieving their goals. They will work with participants to co-create an action plan, and offer support and advice throughout and after the project or training programme. Our mentors aim to introduce participants to a person centred and creative approach to improving confidence, transferable and employment skills.
Reform Mentors engage with wider community partners to make sure that we reach and offer our support to those young unemployed adults who will benefit from it, and so that we can signpost people to other opportunities and services in response to their needs, challenges and interests.
Imogen (she/her) – Reform Mentor
Where did your journey with Reform begin?
I found out about Reform Radio through a temporary job I had with a charity in 2021. While I was working there, we collaborated on a project and I really enjoyed the time I spent in the space. I returned to bar work after my contract ended and spent several months looking for work in the creative industries. On a whim, I checked the Reform website and saw there was a vacancy for an Employment Assistant. The rest is history!
What’s your favourite thing about being part of Reform?
My favourite thing about working at Reform is seeing how getting involved with our courses can impact peoples’ lives in a really positive way. It’s so nice to see people gain confidence and go onto do really exciting and creative things after finishing projects here.
What do you get up to outside of your work at Reform?
During the week, I love to read, do a bit of writing and watch films. I’ve recently started DJing, so I also like to practice mixing and work on preparing for my takeover shows on Reform. I’ve been attending Chinese kickboxing classes, which are brutal! On weekends, I spend time with friends and go to electronic music events.
What’s your favourite track to listen to when your mood needs picking up?
‘Waitin’ by Kelela always gives me energy when I need it.
Adele (she/her) – Reform Mentor
Where did your journey with Reform begin?
I had done a takeover show with my collective SHEwillprovide and was then working in radio as a breakfast show host. When I came to do the takeover, I knew that I wanted to work at Reform immediately and applied as soon as I saw a role come up.
What’s your favourite thing about being part of Reform?
Favourite thing about being at Reform is the ability to meet all the amazing talented people that come through the doors in all forms, and being able to be surrounded by a hub of positivity towards creativity. What I love about my job is being able to see the journey of the people I work with and the growth of their time shared at Reform and outside.
What do you get up to outside of your work at Reform?
Outside of Reform, I am a DJ and also a part of a collective called SHEwillprovide. I also partake in social action and change work as a Youth Ambassador for YMCA England and Wales.
What’s your favourite track to listen to when your mood needs picking up?
‘VIVID DREAMS’ by KAYTRANADA and River Tiber.
Dan (he/him) – Well-being Manager
As Reform Radio’s Mental Health and Well-being Manager Dan is responsible for supporting the good mental health and well-being of our staff and the participants. This can include delivering interactive workshops, 1:1 check-ins, counselling, training, creating mental health content and much more. Dan works particularly closely with the Reform Radio Mentors, helping to ensure their mental health needs and the needs of the participants they work with are identified, and thus appropriate support can be offered. All Dan’s sessions are totally confidential and free to attend.
Where did your journey with Reform begin?
When the opportunity came up to apply to work for Reform Radio in 2019, I’d been practicing as a therapist for a number of years in an NHS eating disorder service, and was ready to diversify my work. Reform Radio gave me the opportunity to apply my skills and experience in new ways. I was delivering more workshops, creative projects and working more flexibly with young people to support and expand understandings of good mental health for them and the staff working with them.
What’s your favourite thing about being part of Reform?
My favourite part of being Reform Radio’s Mental Health and Well-being Manager, is that I get to use my training as a psychotherapist in diverse, creative and innovative ways that I wouldn’t be able to in a regular 9-5 job as a therapist.
What do you get up to outside of your work at Reform?
Outside of Reform Radio I enjoy hanging out with my friends or partner, drawing, or making music.
What’s your favourite track to listen to when your mood needs picking up?
‘Romeo’ by Basement Jaxx.
Top left to top right – Autumn & Naomi, bottom left to bottom right – Tito & Alex
During your time at Reform, you are also likely to meet some of our lovely Creative Practitioners who deliver our creative courses and support our participants in sessions. Above, you can see Autumn (they/them), Naomi (she/her), Tito (she/her) and Alex (he/him), all of whom help make our combination of workshops run smoothly.
Employment and Pastoral Support
Alongside our skills development programmes at Reform, we also offer free employment and pastoral advice to all of our participants. From personal CV and job application support from our mentors, to having access to 1-2-1 appointments with our in-house psychotherapist and Well-being Manager, we are proud to assist individuals throughout their journeys with Reform.
For regular job and opportunities updates in the North West, head to our Opportunities page which outlines new paid, voluntary, funding and work experience roles every week. If you’re looking for local support organisations you can reach out to, head over to our Emergency Contacts page.
Get In Touch
If you’d like to find out more about our courses and projects, please reach out to our Engagement Team at projects@reformradio.co.uk.
To keep up to date with what is going on at Reform, you can find us on social media here.
As you might already know, Reform Radio is a non-profit and Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Organisation. Over the past decade of our work, we have been lucky enough to receive support from a brilliant range of funders. It is these funders who have made our growth and development possible to get us where we are today.
Applying for financial support as an organisation remains equally as important now as it was for us in the early days of our journey. From gaining support to facilitate our courses, to allowing us to offer the covering of travel and lunch expenses for our participants, our funding fuels all the work we do. With years of experience working with those aiding our practice, we are able to offer insight and advice to our community who are applying for financial support for both their projects, or as individuals. We are proud to do this through the likes of workshops, online content and 1-2-1 assistance.
Approaching a funding application may feel daunting, especially if you’ve never completed one before. Many application processes can differ. You may apply for grants in different scenarios; as an individual, an organisation, or for a specific project.
Here are some top tips from one of our directors, Jemma, to consider if you’re looking for guidance on applying.
1 – Check the eligibility for the funding before you start the application process. You can usually find this in the grant’s guidance information and may outline demographic, geographical, or turnover requirements. Eligibility is a non-negotiable when it comes to funders allocating their budget, so it’s vital to check this and make sure you aren’t applying for support you aren’t eligible for. If you’re unsure about anything regarding this, reach out to the funder.
2 – Check if you need a personal or a business bank account to receive the grant. Sometimes funders may specifically ask for a business bank account to transfer the money into. If you do not have a business account, organisations may be able to help you by holding your money for you and allow you to apply with their account information.
3 – Check the deadline dates and start working on the application before the submission portal opens. Turnaround can be fast. This will also allow you some contingency time for technical issues, or to reach out to experienced individuals to check over your application and offer feedback.
4 – Work on a separate auto-saving document to the form on the granter’s website. Not only does this prevent you losing your work, but softwares such as Google Drive have grammar-checking and word count devices.
5 – Develop partnerships and utilise them to strengthen your application. Consider who is going to help you with your project and how they benefit you and your application. Who are your recruitment partners, or who is going to help promote your project? Who is going to patch up the gaps in your skillset internally to perform your work to the highest standard? Not only will this help you achieve a high quality project, but funders also value when multiple parties are working together on the same cause.
Application processes and funding requirements are all unique. This is why it’s so important to take your time, read through the grant’s guidelines and ensure you have prepared effectively for submitting your bid. With the tips and resources above, we hope to have helped make the task more approachable. Although the processes may appear intimidating, it is well worth researching and applying for support to help make your ideas become reality. Regardless of the outcomes, applying is brilliant experience and the more applications you make, the sooner you will become a pro on funding bids.
If you are interested in getting involved in our next Creative Leadership course, drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk.
We are delighted to bring you this online open forum, Misogyny In Music: Inspiring Inclusivity, funded by Manchester City Council. Hosted by the incredible Jenna G, attendees are invited to join this discussion, touching on the likes of dynamics and inclusivity to investigate how change can be catalysed in the industry.
Taking place from 1PM til 3PM on the 28th of March, join us online and be part of the conversation. For the full details on how you can get involved, check the flyer below.
Since January, we have been holding weekly digital content sessions as part of our Digital Natives course, funded by Brighter Sound. Over the ten week project, we invited ten people aged 13 to 25 into the Reform Radio space. Our in-house Content and Marketing team delivered sessions on the likes of social media, content creation, interview techniques, and more. Over the course of the project, our participants put the skills they were learning into practice. To draw Digital Natives to a close, they showcased their work to the group and a selection of industry professionals.
We chatted to Essence, one of our attendees, about her love of content creation and what the group got up to throughout the programme.
Introduce your name, pronouns and what you get up to in your free time.
I’m Essence A and my pronouns are she/her. I like to watch film and TV in my spare time. Following this, I love talking about it with my friends and family about its possible themes or meanings.
If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
Bubbly, creative and optimistic.
What prompted you to get involved with Digital Natives?
I was prompted to get involved with Digital Natives through my placement with the Young Film Collective at HOME. Once I read more about the opportunity and what I’d learn, I immediately wanted to be a part of it.
If you could create any piece of content for yourself or an organisation, who would you want to work with and what content would you produce?
If I were to make digital content for myself, other than making film, I’d probably make a YouTube channel to talk about my favourite films or to vlog the process of me making films. I’d probably want to start a magazine of sorts too, to hold as a space for these conversations to continue. If I were to work with someone else, I’d love to work with Dazed magazine. They’re so cool and visually pleasing. Or I’d work with the film magazine Little White Lies for their unique and niche style of producing film reviews.
What’s your favourite thing about making digital content and why?
With making digital content, you’re able to be creative to the fullest extent and be true to your personal style. You can be who you want to be and reach vast audiences that relate to your unique personality or content. Possibilities are endless with digital content and that’s why I love it.
If you could interview anyone on-screen, who would it be and why?
I would love to interview Issa Rae if I could. However, I’d love for this to be less of a journalistic interview and more of a conversation over dinner. She is an artist and industry professional that I look up to a lot in my own journey to creating film and TV. I feel like it would be not only a fun time because she’s a funny person, but I’d learn a lot from her many years of experience.
Let’s throw it back to your first day at Reform on the Digital Natives course versus now. Tell us a bit about your first impressions, feelings and emotions in comparison to how you feel now. What has changed?
I didn’t really know what to expect from the first Digital Natives meeting, but I knew it would surround social media content and developing those skills. I feel like I achieved that assumption and learnt more about shooting content, cameras and editing too. Also, I know more about what works and digital trends, and how to work effectively as a team.
What will you take from Digital Natives moving forward & what are your plans from here onwards?
I’m taking the editing and social media filming tips from this course, using them in future projects and possibly the start of my YouTube channel. I plan on making content, writing film and hopefully directing more in the future.
To find out more about our future projects, reach out to our Engagement team at projects@reformradio.co.uk.
Back for another banging Bank Holiday weekend, Sounds From The Other City have announced this year’s line-up for their annual celebration. Taking place on the 5th of May, SFTOC is a firm underground favourite, delivering a unique yearly event that champions local promoters and celebrates the off-kilter beauty of Salford – the ‘other city’ to Manchester.
We are delighted to announce we will be taking over Salford’s Peel Hall with Manchester arts organisation Band on the Wall to curate an exclusive stage for this year’s festival. Let us introduce you to the artists we have joining us. You can grab your tickets to the multi-venue event here and get a taste of some of the UK’s best upcoming talent.
Manchester-based, Hampshire-grown Lavender Rodriguez explores the sounds between alternative soul and Afro-beat by night, whilst working as a classical composer by day. Their music celebrates the intersectionality of queerness, being mixed race, and the universal life experience.
Lavender previously joined us for a live session on The Takeover w/ Kaoti. Check out the full session below.
Urbi is one of many hobbyists who perfected their craft in lockdown. However, unlike the rest, her seamless blending of different house genres has earned an impressive following and some heavy support from the underground realms in the short space of a year. She’ll be showcasing her infectious style and creativity alongside fellow Reform Radio resident, Juno. Juno works the crowd with an upbeat selection of percussive, afro, deep, soulful house, broken beat and jazz. Come along to watch the duo delve into inspiring sounds from across the globe.
Listen to the most recent Urbi show on Reform below.
You can also check out Juno’s most recent show below.
0161 resident KinKai’s ear was attuned to a wide range of West African music, reggae, jazz, and hip-hop at an early age. Inspired by his mother’s vinyl collection and influenced by his Jamaican and Sierra Leonean roots, his heartfelt discography is a bonafide gem of UK underground hip-hop. We are proud to host KinKai as our Reform Radio artist in residence and offer him the stage to share the vast array of sounds and craft he has explored within his residency. Listen to KinKai’s most recent show on Reform below.
Davina Earth Adeosun-Bright, more popularly known as muva of Earth, is inspired by the act of evolution. Taking cues from innovative sound travellers like Bjork and FKA Twigs, her path has been one of expansion and self-reflection. As a solo act and one-half of DIVINEANGEL, muva of Earth blesses audiences across the UK and Europe with celestial sounds and meditative experiences.
Lashimba isn’t just the host of our breakfast show, she is also an acclaimed artist and producer. Combining a multitude of genres to create an indie R&B sound, we experience infused smooth vocals with rap/spoken word verses. Lashimba as part of a new generation using their art to champion feminism. Check out her morning residency at Reform here.
Stoic and wise, current and fierce. Renee Stormz unapologetically flows innovative lyricism over soulful hip-hop beats, evoking power, nostalgia, and grace. We’ve been lucky to have Renee with us in the Reform space for a while now. She was part of our Soundcamp bootcamp in 2020, she now joins us on the airwaves for some incredible shows. Check out her January mix below.
A vital contributor to the London scene, Ife is one fifth of the band Ezra Collective. He is a purveyour of an authentic sound versatile enough to transition from spiritual jazz to dance fuelled Afrobeat in a heartbeat.
Multi-instrumentalistISHA’s fresh funk beats are characterised by rare groove appeal and strong bass lines. Her influences go back to the funk, hip-hop, and jazz scene of the 70’s and 80’s, as well as modern-day acts like SG Lewis, Jungle and FKJ.
SHEwillprovide ft. Mix-Stress, Shimrise and Andrea Trout (panel discussion presented by Adele Tondu)
Formidable collective SHEwillprovide are hosting a panel of DJs to discuss their individual journeys and the current DJ landscape. Featuring on the panel are some of the best in the business – Mix-Stress, Shimrise and Andrea Trout. The discussion will be hosted by Adele Tondu. Listen to SHEwillprovide’s takeover show on Reform Radio below.
We cannot wait to chat, boogie, and celebrate at this year’s festival. Don’t forget to grab your tickets here now to join in on the antics.
It has been a busy fortnight at Reform, with us having a full house of participants for our Podcasting Course. Funded by MAES, our attendees have been led through the likes of production, scripting and editing. To complete the project, they have each designed, recorded and produced their own podcast to be played on the Reform Radio airwaves.
Listen to the show they created below.
We chatted to two of our participants, Ruby and Dove, to hear about what they got up to on the programme. They also chatted about what they’ve learnt and developed from joining us on the course.
Introduce your name, pronouns and what you get up to in your free time
R: Hi, I’m Ruby. My pronouns are she/her. In my free time I do a lot of media and art. I love spending time with my friends and I also do gig photography.
D: My name is Dove and my pronouns are she/her. My hobbies include gardening, foraging, meditating, yoga and reading.
Describe yourself in 3 words
R: I would say caring, funny and weird.
D: Neurodivergent, intuitive and humanitarian.
If you had to recommend a podcast to someone who’s never listened to a podcast before, what would it be and why?
R: I’ve got to say the ‘My Dad Wrote a Porno’ podcast because it’s hilarious and flows really well. I often find myself listening to it on public transport, laughing to myself and getting some stares.
D: The ‘Living Myth’ podcast with Michael Meade. He is a mythologist and philosopher. He takes ancient myths, tells their stories, and then connects it with our society today.
If you had to produce a podcast on any topic, what would it be about and why?
R: The podcast I’ve been working on on the course is called ‘Wired Differently’. It is all about neurodivergence and my personal experiences of being autistic and having ADHD. I hope to help other people learn about these subjects, but also use this topic to explore myself.
D: Mental health and the ways we can become better people to improve society. I would do this through sharing my own experiences, how my past self contributed to society and the environment and how I changed myself to help create a better world.
What prompted you to get involved with the Podcasting Course?
R: I’m currently on a gap year right now from my media degree. I wanted to broaden my horizons in this realm.
D: My own desire to create my own podcast. I was really passionate about it but I didn’t know what it actually took to do it. When I saw the course, I was ready to learn.
Did you have much experience in audio/podcasting before? If so, what’s your favourite thing about it?
R: I have some knowledge in radio and editing. However, I didn’t have direct experience in podcasting. It has been a really fun opportunity to delve into this more. My favourite thing about it has been getting into the routine of recording, producing and editing. I love the journey of creating a piece of audio work and exploring each stage of the process.
D: It was quite new; I am more into blogging via YouTube. I listen to some podcasts and some of my friends also do podcasting but I had never done it myself. My favourite thing about trying it for the first time has been the freedom it has given me to speak my truth. It’s really nice to speak freely in this form.
Let’s throw it back to your first day at Reform versus now, tell me a bit about your first impressions/feelings/emotions in comparison to how you feel now. What has changed?
R: I definitely feel a lot more confident in the area of podcasting. To begin with, I was shaking in my boots at working with a new group of people and trying something new. Fast forward to now and I will be sad to finish the course. I have loved meeting such a range of people and collaborating with them.
D: I have definitely become more authentic and genuine over the course of the project and learnt a lot about compromising and working in a team.
What will you take from the podcasting course moving forward & what are your plans from here onwards?
R: To begin with, I was quite apprehensive to do the course, but I am so glad I did it. So I plan to take this attitude with me and be confident in my creative choices, even when I think I am lacking expertise in certain areas. From here, I hope to continue with my podcast series and take part in more creative projects like this one.
D: I will take all the skills and knowledge I have learnt about editing, scripting, ethical consent and the requirements of different platforms.
To find out about our future projects, please reach out to our Engagement team at projects@reformradio.co.uk.
In partnership with size?Radio, powered by Nike Sportswear, we have been hosting a super exciting project in the Reform Radio space. ‘Run The Track‘ is a new exclusive radio series which places female music artists from the North West at the centre of the conversation. From discussing the likes of the representation of female queer identities to the experiences of Black artists in music, and the reality of functioning as a female artist, this series catalyses vital conversations to triggering change in the industry.
In 2023, the UK Parliamentfound that just 1 in 10 major UK festival headliners, less than a third of top-selling artists, and 14% of songwriterswere female. These numbers also lessen in relation to marginalised racial identities. There has been an overall decrease to21% of individuals working in music identifying as Black, Asian or from an ethnically diverse background. As a means of support to underrepresented genders in music, we were proud to take part in the production of ‘Run The Track‘ and hold space for said artists to share their reflections and experiences to alter the narrative of inequality.
Released on the 15th of February, the series kickstarted with its debut episode led by Manchester’s Mix-Stress, also known as Rebecca Swarray. The DJ, producer and curator invited Homobloc resident Gina Breeze, and Liverpool’s Fliss Mayo to the conversation regarding LGBTQIA+ representation in the realm of dance music. From the birth of disco and electronic dance music lying in 70s underground queer clubs, the genre has a lot to thank the queer community for.
“Dance music is queer, and that fact has been erased over time… Most stems of electronic music have come from queer house and techno, which has always pushed the boundaries of music creation.”
Fliss Mayo, ‘Run The Track’, Episode One
The trio discussed the vitality of music communities in providing safety for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Mix-Stressand Gina Breeze made a point to acknowledge Manchester’s grassroots venues, including the Derby Brewery Arms and Partisan Collective, which are consistently creating new queer events to ensure the subculture stays true to its roots. Similarly, larger promoters, such as Warehouse Project, were celebrated for curating exciting lineups of local LGBTQIA+ artists alongside bigger industry names. However, there is still a long way to go. Other North West cities are struggling with diversity within audience demographics. Manchester acts as an example to others in showcasing the vitality of DIY events for the queer community, but funding and supportis needed to ensure this in less established locations.
Amongst discussion, we were also treated to some delicious mixes from the guests throughout the episode to get us moving and to showcase some talent we are lucky enough to have right on our doorstep. Listen to the first episode below.
The second episode welcomed Manchester based artist and founder of six piece group Lovescene, Pops Roberts, to host the conversation. Joining her to explore the contributions of females in the music industry were critically acclaimed singer, songwriter and producer Låpsleyand DJ of the Girls Can’t Sync collectiveHannah Lynch. The trio noted the struggles of gender minorities in the industry and also took time to celebrate the moves said communities are making resiliently.
Watch the full episode below.
Following International Women’s Day, there is no better time than now to tune into ‘Run The Track‘. Check out the vast array of female talent and chat it has to offer. From listening in to some top mixes, to hearing unheard lived experiences, the series is sure to bring something fresh to your ears and leave you more informed on the realities of being a female in the industry.
Listen to the second episode below.
Stay tuned for the full three-part series to be available via Reform Radio or the size?launches app over the coming weeks.
Our most recent Positive Frequencies course, funded by MAES, drew to a close with an inspiring radio show, Hotel Changing Frequencies. Within this, our participants shared stories of human experience, personal reflections and creative writing they worked on over the duration of the workshops.
Listen to the full show below.
Positive Frequencies is our well-being project, centred around self-expression and using creative outlets as a form of self-care. We chatted to one of our participants, Uyama, about her time on the programme and what they’ll be taking from it moving forward.
Introduce your name, pronouns and hobbies.
My name is Uyama and my pronouns are she/her. Currently, I’m studying English and Maths. Outside the course, I like playing netball for fun, and to help me relax and clear my mind.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Patient, caring and supportive.
What’s your favourite thing to do to make you feel good or as a form of self-care?
Playing netball!
Left: Creative Practitioner, Tito, leading one of our sessions. Right: Our Well-being Manager and in-house trained psychotherapist, Dan, leading a group discussion.
Did you have much experience of using writing in your well-being practice already? If so, what’s your favourite element of this or what have you enjoyed about trying it for the first time?
I didn’t have much experience, but I really appreciate that I got the opportunity to write something kind about myself at Positive Frequencies. I learnt that you don’t just have to say nice things to other people, but that you can also say these things to yourself.
What prompted you to get involved in our Positive Frequencies course?
I saw a poster and thought I should sign up. I didn’t want to miss it.
Let’s throw it back to your first day on the course versus now, tell me a bit about your first impressions/feelings/emotions in comparison to how you feel now. What has changed?
Again, I genuinely had never thought about saying kind things to myself. This was totally out of my mind and something I had never considered. It showed me you can value, respect and love yourself, and not just other people. This has helped me a lot already and it’s something I will take away with me.
If you had to give a sentence of advice to your younger self, what would it say?
You’re not too late to start anything. You can always restart at any age.
What will you take from Positive Frequencies moving forward & what are your plans from here onwards?
Aside from a kinder attitude towards myself, I am also looking forward to studying nursing and midwifing in the future. Hopefully, I will be a qualified nurse in two or three years time.
How would you describe the Positive Frequencies course to someone who was thinking of joining us as a participant?
It’s a great course – everybody is patient; there is no pressure and no judgement. I’m not an outspoken person and prefer to listen usually, but Positive Frequencies made me feel welcome and comfortable to share and speak. I would encourage others to take the step to join the course, because it’s a great space where everyone supports each other.
We were buzzing to welcome the formidable force that is BatFunk to last week’sJorgy and Cheech’s Show. The artist is making waves in the UK hip-hop scene with his unmatched bars and rapping abilities. Jorgy and Cheech invited BatFunk onto the airwaves for a chat about the likes of his recent gig at Manchester’s O2 Apollo and his musical journey. Then, we were treated to an exclusive live session from the rapper come producer; you don’t want to miss this one.
Watch the full session and listen back to the show below.
