Stars including TV and radio presenter Vick Hope, BRIT nominated DJ’s Bicep and award-winning artist Pa Salieu were out in force to show their support for the next generation of musical talent at the Youth Music Awards held at London’s legendary Troxy this evening. Youth Music, a national charity that’s been championing access to the music industry for 20 years, helps young people from a wide range of backgrounds to earn and learn while gaining invaluable experience with success stories including chart-toppers Rag n’ Bone Man. The annual ceremony celebrates the most forward-thinking music projects and recognises an exciting range of trailblazers across the industry from artists and entrepreneurs to grassroots projects and young leaders.
An incredible line-up of music industry figures including Eve, Bicep, George the Poet and Hot Chip’s Alexis Taylor lent their expertise to judging the Youth Music Awards, with a host of inspiring young people being recognised at the glittering ceremony for their outstanding achievements in music. Those honoured include Jinx Prowse, the Havant resident, who’s innovative ‘Words Not Weapons’ programme – wherein rival gangs are encouraged to address any disputes by collaborating on a track in a creative bid to reduce gang violence – was announced the winner of the Social Action award.
Jinx’s program aims to channel young people’s misdirected energy by offering courses in rapping, singing and music production and to help him celebrate in style, Youth Music arranged for rapper and best-selling ‘Natives’ author Akala to pay a visit to his workshop and attend the next Words Not Weapons program.
Other winners include Tee Peters, who picked up the Lyricist Award for his powerful song Wings. It’s a raw and emotive expression of a young man struggling to process the murder of a black man in police custody, inspired by the killing of George Floyd.
While Sans Souci, a London-based songwriter with Italian and Congolese heritage claimed the Original Track award for her genre-fluid song, Air. The artist, who only moved to the UK aged 20, believes music was key in helping to understand British culture with her award-winning track a homage to the blurring of cultures. Hundreds of guests attended the festivities and watched a number of electrifying live musical acts, including Pa Salieu, the BBC Sound of 2021 winner, who closed the ceremony with an exclusive performance. Youth Music CEO, Matt Griffiths, said: “The awards celebrate the diverse and inclusive music-making that we invest in across the country. “They shine a light on young people changing their lives as they make, learn and earn in music.
“The awards also recognise the music leaders, teachers and organisations helping young people to overcome barriers. This evening showcases an amazing workforce, consistently going the extra mile so young people feel supported, inspired and seen.” Speaking at the event, Vick Hope, who is a supporter for the charity, said: “I feel so galvanised, motivated and excited by these artists at the Youth Music Awards and what they are producing and creating and it feels amazing to be here in person.”
“To be in a venue full of people who are feeling that joy and feeling that creativity together, because music is togetherness.”
“It feels so special to see all these artists who I connected with virtually in person and I’m really honoured to be here.”
For a full list of winners, and for more information head to https://youthmusic.org.uk/awards
