London’s Southbank Centre announces return free events series futuretense aimed at emerging artists
It will take place fortnightly, with Tay Jordan, Monét and SHEIVA among those currently slated to perform
Today (March 30), London’s Southbank Centre has announced the return of futuretense, its free entry gig series aimed at providing a platform for the city’s underground and emerging artists.
The first edition will be on April 13 and will be headlined by UK rap artist Tay Jordan (pictured above), with events taking place fortnightly on Thursdays from 6:PM in the Queen Elizabeth Hall foyer, where two artists will play at each gig.
For subsequent events, performances from the likes of South East London rapper Monét (pictured), Iranian alt-pop musician SHEIVA, North London’s Natty Wylah, t l k and And is Phi (pictured) have been scheduled.
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Previous artists who performed at the event in the early stages of their careers include Erika De Casier, Wu-Lu, Lex Amor, Ego Ella-May, Kai Whiston, Sinead O’Brien and Afronaught Zu.
A statement from the Southbank Centre announcing the news read: “The re-launch of futuretense is part of the Southbank Centre’s ongoing commitment to support and nurture new talent working in contemporary music whilst providing a space for music lovers to come together and celebrate creativity at zero cost.
“The initiative is a catalyst for further visibility; giving creatives the opportunity to reach new audiences as well as build industry connections,” it continued.
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Commenting on futuretense’s return, Adam Holness, the Head of Contemporary Music at Southbank Centre said: “Supporting artists at every stage of their career, particularly those in their early days, is essential for a healthy, diverse music ecosystem and we are incredibly excited for the return of futuretense and its role in that.
“Bringing together artists who are pushing creative boundaries and eager audiences looking for the next new sound, futuretense will be home to some amazing future stars,” he continued.
***Isaac Muk is Mixmag's Digital Intern, *follow him on Twitter****