Rhythm Section presents Future Proof: 

A career-building opportunity for emerging electronic music talent


Future Proof is a new opportunity for emerging electronic music talent from across England. Over 6 months, we support 6 DJs and producers to develop their skills ready to become future leaders in the electronic music scene.

Each person receives masterclasses from world-class artists, DJ opportunities, mentoring, audio equipment, software and training to prepare them for the future of the music industry.

 

The full package includes:

  • 5 masterclasses from world-leading artists including Jamz Supernova, Charlie Dark MBE, I. Jordan and Bradley Zero. They will cover topics including radio, DJing, music production, wellbeing and managing your career

  • Opportunity to DJ at one of 5 Future Proof parties around the country 

  • 1 to 1 mentoring from an industry leader matched to your needs

  • Training in music industry skills e.g. building a portfolio career, developing your artistic identity, awareness of environmental impact, diversity and inclusion

  • A copy of Ableton Live 12 

  • Audio Technica artist pack: ATH-M50x headphones, AT2040 microphone and ATXP5/H DJ cartridges

  • A selection of Cradle Audio plugins

  • Press photos

  • Peer support through Action Learning sessions

  • Travel costs and financial support

The masterclasses are also broadcast on Youtube, you’ll find a playlist below. 

Watch the Future Proof masterclass playlist

“It’s so rare and humbling to spend extended time talking to such established artists and it really felt like a safe space. To have this kind of support at this stage of my career has been unbelievable.”
— Zar (previous participant)

Who it’s for

Future Proof is for DJs and electronic music producers focussed on the sounds and genres which have influenced Rhythm Section Intl as a label and dance (including electronic music with jazz and soul influences, deep house, house, techno). You can apply as a DJ or producer, or both.

  • DJs: a good understanding of DJing and how to beatmatch on club-standard digital equipment, with some experience playing in a club, festival or radio setting 

  • Producers: have released at least 1 track, through a label or self-released

  • Currently unsigned, with no booking agent or manager

  • An interest in hosting radio, starting a label, running events, or another music-related side hustle

  • Enthusiasm for music, club culture, social justice and community

  • Passionate about building a sustainable and forward thinking music industry

  • You must be over 18 and based in England throughout the programme

We are not interested in how many social media followers you have.

We want to help address the imbalances in our scene and honour the heritage of electronic music as a Black, queer artform.
We want to make sure this opportunity is available to everyone, no matter what their background or the challenges they have faced. Please let us know if there is anything else you need to help you apply.

If you have any questions about Future Proof or the application process, please check the FAQs first then email Emily on patreon@wearerhythmsection.com

How do I get involved?

Applications are currently closed. Sign up to the Rhythm Section mailing list to find out when the programme launches again.

“I’ve learnt so much it’s hard to put it into words. My confidence as a DJ has grown so I feel I can take up more space in those situations. I’m gradually feeling like I belong more… It has really broken down the barriers and made the industry feel more accessible. I know what my next steps are now, whereas I didn’t before.”
— L Daze (previous participant)

Thanks to our partners for making this possible: