Open call: Studio Monkey Shoulder

The initiative, running in collaboration with celebrated DJ, broadcaster and record collector Gilles Peterson and his online radio station Worldwide FM, forms part of a vision to empower communities that challenge norms and share their stories with the world. 

Anyone over the age of 25 representing a grassroots music community from India, the US, UK, Nigeria and Taiwan can apply.

Studio Monkey Shoulder will allocate a £10 000 ($12 000) fund to five music collectives for project implementation. Their stories will also be told through a series of films, events and radio broadcasts on Worldwide FM, which seeks to “amplify marginalised voices and alternative perspectives through music and culture.”

The organisers say the initiative, which targets spaces like independent record stores, live venues, and radio stations, will prioritise projects that “drive community connection and deliver unique creative output and convey passion for the project.”

Note: Projects must challenge norms and share unique stories within the local music community.

Submissions are open here until 9 May.

Selection process

• Applications will be reviewed by Worldwide FM and Gilles Peterson.
• Priority will be given to projects that foster community connection and showcase creativity and passion.

Monkey Shoulder global manager Ieuan Morgan said: “By partnering with Gilles and Worldwide FM, we look forward to unravelling new talents and telling their stories.”

Peterson, whose Brownswood Recordings is credited with breaking artists and groups like Kokoroko, Yussef Dayes, Swindle, Joe-Armon Jones, Shabaka and The Ancestors, Zara McFarlane and Ghostpoet, said: “This is exactly why I started Worldwide FM radio and there are so many other incredible community-driven projects out there I want to uncover, which is what excites us about Studio Monkey Shoulder. We have no idea where this is going to take us but can’t wait to see and hear it.”

View the original call here.