CPWM Records announce Next Up North, the first artist development programme specifically supporting emerging artists of marginalised genders and sexualities from the North of England. 

With support from Arts Council, Breed Media, Crowdable, Eiger Studios, GLOW Artists, Tileyard North and un:hurd music, CPWM will help six artists to reach the next stage of their musical careers. Successful applicants will receive recording opportunities, PR and radio plugging support, a vinyl compilation release, a live performance opportunity, workshops and mentoring.

The six successful artists will be chosen from a shortlist by a blind selection panel of industry professionals, hosted at CPWM’s annual conference I Know A Place in Leeds, on January 31st 2025.

Artist taking part in Next Up North will receive a variety of support across numerous areas, namely:

Release Campaign

Wide-ranging support for a run of singles/short EP will be provided, including access to Universal Music’s infrastructure via the CPWM/EMI North partnership, studio time at creative hub Tileyard North, a tailored single PR campaign and radio plugging, as well as six months of a PRO membership with un:hurd’s data-driven music marketing platform.  

Live

A multitude of live opportunities are additionally available, specifically a session at Eiger Studios in Leeds, which will feature on the Next Up North Class of 2025 Compilation. The vinyl, manufactured by Breed Media, will be unveiled at the accompanying compilation launch event, complete with a performance showcase.

Artist Development

With key workshops surrounding branding, building your team as an artist, as well as sync and publishing, educational opportunities will also be offered. Delivered alongside mentoring from an industry professional and Crowdable sessions, artists will receive multi-faceted developmental support as part of the programme.

For full details on the programme, including eligibility requirements, please see here.