The Music Works, Warner Chappell, YouTube & BRIT Awards address underrepresentation in music industry

Malaki Patterson, the new CEO of Gloucester-based charity The Music Works teamed up with Warner Chappell Music, YouTube and the BRIT Awards over the BRITS weekend to host a transformative three day ‘industry experience’ for a group of young people.

This unique collaboration focussed on equipping them with the skills they need to break into the music industry through hands-on learning, mentorship, and access to key industry players, whilst aiming to drive diversity and inclusion in the sector.

The Music Works is an award-winning charity who work with 4,000 young people aged eight to 30. Specialists in working with those from underrepresented backgrounds and in challenging circumstances, they understand the power of music to transform young lives.

The collaboration was driven by Patterson, who took up his new position at the beginning of year, having spent nearly 10 years at the organisation in senior roles, most recently as artistic director.

Patterson, CEO, The Music Works commented, “The collaboration with Warner Chappell Music, YouTube and the BRIT Awards represents exactly what we strive to achieve at The Music Works. 

"The music industry thrives on diverse voices and perspectives, yet the routes for those living outside of London can be unclear and inaccessible for many talented young people. Seeing them immerse themselves in these environments, connecting with industry professionals and gaining practical insights, reinforces our belief that exposure and opportunity are powerful catalysts for change.”

Over the course of three days, the eight young people had the opportunity to visit Warner Chappell Music’s head office to gain insight into the workings of one of the world’s leading music publishers and learnt how to optimise their content on YouTube, with a behind-the-scenes look at digital strategies for music creators, as well as crucial insights to demystify the industry and the roles within it.

The experience culminated with a visit to the BRIT Awards, networking with industry influencers and a chance for the group to immerse themselves in the UK’s most coveted music event.

Mason Rendell, artist name MX2, said, “The whole trip was life changing. Even just being in the city for a prolonged amount of time and networking with people high up in the industry was an opportunity I am so grateful to be given. It made me realise how achievable and in-reach a successful career in the music and entertainment industry is, which has completely shifted my mindset to pursuing what I want and has boosted my drive to make it happen.

“It was also amazing to be surrounded by like-minded creatives through the duration of the trip. I’m feeling very inspired and can’t thank The Music Works enough for the opportunity they have provided.”

Guy Moot, Co-Chair and CEO, Warner Chappell Music, said, “Over the last few years, we have worked closely with The Music Works as we aim to make the industry more accessible to people from across the country and from all walks of life. We’ve seen first-hand some of the incredible talent that has come through The Music Works, and by welcoming the group into our office and studios to meet with our teams, we hope we are able to further help in their journeys.

“I’d like to congratulate Malaki on his new position as CEO - he has been invaluable in growing and developing our partnership and I'm looking forward to working with him in his new role.”

Corbyn Asbury, Label Relations Manager, YouTube, concluded, “YouTube is committed to educating and inspiring the next generation of talent, ensuring they have the knowledge and tools to thrive on the platform. We're committed to reaching out of the London bubble, and connecting with talented young people that represent our diverse platform, and The Music Works is an incredible organization to partner with for this.”

More on The Music Works:

Malaki Patterson, a musician, music producer and artistic director of The Music Works Charity talks about working with young people in challenging circumstances to help them reach their full potential in music.

Mikel Medley, award-winning dance vocalist and Bristol-based ‘mic man’, Dread MC - and youth support manager for The Music Works - discusses his important work with young people, including the organisation’s efforts to tackle knife crime in the UK.

Warner Chappell co-chair and CEO, Guy Moot discusses the publisher’s work with The Music Works, what needs to be done to break down music industry barriers, and his own personal journey from working as a welder to becoming one of the most influential executives in the business.