Pilot scheme to develop South Asian music talent

The scheme will support up to 10 emerging musicians, singers, rappers and producers, aged 16-30

A new not-for-profit firm has launched a drive to discover, develop and celebrate the next wave of South Asian music talent in Wolverhampton and the Black Country.

Playback Creates says it was set up to address "the long-standing gap in tailored, culturally-informed development opportunities for South Asian creatives".

Their Homegrown scheme, offered free, will support up to 10 musicians, singers, rappers and producers aged 16-30 to create and record their own music, says creator Dr Harpreet Singh Jandu, better known as PBN (Panjabi By Nature).

Over six weeks, participants will access professional studios, hands-on mentoring from industry figures, and a chance to perform at a final showcase.

The scheme will run from January-February 2026 with a final showcase in March at at Vaal & Vaal, where participants will present work to industry guests and receive feedback.

They will have had two full days of professional recording at the APS Studios in Wolverhampton Arts Centre to produce a mixed and mastered track.

'Talent is everywhere'

The project is supported by Arts Council England funding, with Punch records as the industry partner.

Dr Jandu said: "Homegrown is about changing the story for South Asian creatives.

"Talent is everywhere in Wolverhampton and the Black Country, but opportunity isn't- and that's what we're here to change.

"Playback Creates exists to give artists the tools, support, and visibility they need to take real steps into the music industry.

"This is the first programme of its kind in the region, and it's only the beginning.

"We're investing in our community because we believe in its potential, and because South Asian artists deserve spaces to explore their voice and shape the future of UK music. We cannot wait to hear what this first cohort creates."

The opportunity is open to any individuals from South Asian communities living in Wolverhampton and the Black Country and applicants may be musicians, singer-songwriters, rappers, producers, beatmakers or other music creatives at an entry level stage.

People can apply via the Playback Creates website.