Check out some of the resources available to help your career or business grow. From business tips, social masterclasses, mental health support and more.
Check out some of the resources available to help your career or business grow. From business tips, social masterclasses, mental health support and more.
Support Act – the heart and hand of Australian Music
Support Act is Australia’s only charity delivering crisis relief services to artists, crew and music workers as a result of ill health, injury, a mental health problem, or some other crisis that impacts on their ability to work in music
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FUND RECIPIENTS
$1 MILLION AMERICAN EXPRESS
MUSIC BACKERS FUND
FUND RECIPIENTS
$1 MILLION
AMERICAN EXPRESS
MUSIC BACKERS FUND
MUSIC BACKERS GRANT RECIPIENTS
The $1Million American Express Music Backers Fund is here to support the Aussie music industry.
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Our judging panel has been inundated with thousands of incredible applications from all corners of Australia, and one thing is certain…we’re an extremely talented bunch. This made it exceptionally challenging to select our first round of grant winners...and the results are finally in!
Check out which artists and music businesses we’ve awarded grants to, as well as how we’ll be helping to bring their epic initiatives to life.
If you applied but haven’t been selected, don’t forget we still have another round of winners to be announced – so keep an eye on your inbox!
HANDSOME
Hailing from Sydney, Handsome crafts a mix of Tomboy Pop and Brooding Electronica. Her bold sound is a celebration of self-expression & carefree creativity. The name is a nod to her queer identity and is inspired by strong friendships, falling in love and defying people's expectations of who they want you to be, and celebrating who you want to be!
Handsome's grant will be used to research, produce and finance a short film that will become a visual experience of their highly-anticipated sophomore EP, due to be released in 2021.
PILERATS
Pilerats, a music and culture platform based out of Perth, aims to spotlight emerging and renowned musicians through journalism, events and more. In 2021, they plan to explore new opportunities to showcase top-tier talent, in the hope of discovering the next best thing...and making sure everyone knows who they are, too!
Their grant will be used for a much-needed revitalization of their platform, as well as to launch a new podcast series that will further promote Australian music and culture.
BAKER BOY
Born in Darwin and raised in the remote Northern Territory communities of Milingimbi and Maningrida, Danzal Baker, known professionally as Baker Boy, is the freshest new hip-hop talent to emerge out of Australia. A Yolngu man, Baker Boy is renowned for performing his original hip-hop tunes that incorporate both English and Yolnu Matha.
Baker Boy will use his grant funding to build a seriously impressive live rig and playback system, so that he can continue to put on world-class shows for his fans.
POOF DOOF
For almost 10 years, POOF DOOF has been Australia's leading queer nightlife brand, producing weekly events in both Melbourne and Sydney and pop-up stages around the Australian music festival scene. Traditionally, their events range from small scale cabaret-style showcases to high energy nightclubbing experiences. POOF DOOF is looking forward to being involved in more outdoor music festivals in 2021, connecting the community and creating a 'dance space for all'.
POOF DOOF will use their grant to build a multi-purpose 'Pride vehicle' that will tour mainstream festivals, showcasing queer talent and promoting inclusivity and diversity across Australia.
IN HEARTS WAKE
A melodic metalcore band from Byron Bay, In Heart’s Wake create conscious heavy music for these times. Their last four albums debuted in the Top 5 of the ARIA charts, and the power and purpose behind their fifth album KALIYUGA is evident in every facet of its making. This album is entirely carbon offset and is being pressed on recycled materials without the use of disposable plastics. With this, they hope to incite widespread positive action and break new ground in tackling the most pressing crises on the planet today.
With their funding, In Hearts Wake will be able to develop and share the story of how they created a first-ever carbon offset album, during Australia’s worst ever bushfires.
DULCIE
Hailing from Western Australia, Dulcie is a 4-piece indie-pop girl band. After tirelessly trying to define their indie
pop-inspired style, they decided that they would defy normality in both genre and group composition, with three interchangeable vocalists and a sound that makes you feel as if you are in a 70’s time loop. Dulcie's effortlessly cool energy and quirkiness is only amplified at their gigs, and whether it’s supporting G-Flip, playing Groovin’ the Moo, or touring with Polish Club,
Dulcie’s electric presence cannot be denied.
Dulcie will use their
funding to record with Eskimo Joe pianist Joel Quartermain and to complete final tracks for their upcoming EP, slated for release in 2021.
THE NIGHT CAT
First established as a live music venue in 1996, The Night Cat has become a long-standing institution. Widely regarded as the home of multicultural music in Melbourne, it regularly features a diverse range of artists across many genres including jazz, funk, soul, Latin, disco and hip-hop on its iconic 360-degree stage seven days a week.
The Night Cat will use their funding to install accessible, gender-neutral toilets to be both more inclusive and to elevate the experiences of patrons using mobility aides.
TAKA PERRY
Sydney based Australian-Japanese
Producer Taka Perry has been making waves on the global music scene. The former Canberra native has been collaborating with likes of Ruel, Sycco, Denzel Curry, A.GIRL, Max Frost and JP The Wavy to name a few.
At only 22 he has been dubbed by
Pilerats as one of Australia’s most exciting songwriters and producers.
His creative contributions have amassed over 130 million plays on
Spotify, with past credits including Money Problems by Max Frost and the 2x platinum certified ‘Younger' by Ruel.
The funding will be used to create a trilogy of music videos. Each with its own narrative, the videos will be intended to be seen as a whole, further demonstrating Taka’s
creative flair and ability.
THE GOV
Since 1993, The Gov has
established itself as Adelaide’s home of live music and is highly regarded by
musicians and music-lovers alike. The venue features world-class,
international, national and local musicians, and is the only venue in Adelaide
where audiences can watch the on-stage action from the open-air beer garden. In
the front bars, there's a regular roster of local bands playing blues, ukulele,
jazz, open-mic, folk and more.
The venue has been widely recognised for its huge contribution to live music, receiving a number of AHA Awards, an APRA AMCOS Award, an SA Music Award and induction into the AMC Hall of Fame in 2017.
The Gov will use its funding to extend the hotel’s Beer Garden to increase capacity in the venue, which will help it to attract more ticket buyers and bands.
NINAJIRACHI
With a sound that embodies a rich, opulent atmosphere and a flawless touch in the studio, Ninajirachi is a triple-threat
producer, songwriter and DJ who has built a career that encompasses the
spectrum of electronic music, garnering praise from critics and notable artists
alike. Since her breakout single “Pure Luck”, Nina has gone from strength to
strength, collaborating with renowned artists and remixing for Flight
Facilities, deadmau5 & The Neptunes, Hermitude and more. She has also been
a resident DJ for triple j, co-wrote and produced the official anthem for
Australia’s Matildas in the FIFA World Cup and most recently crafted the demo
track included with Ableton Live 11. Standing tall as an immovable force
within electronic music, the only way for Ninajirachi is up.
Ninajirachi will use
her funding to curate an interactive and expansive video series with Kota
Banks, based on their True North EP, encompassing live performances of EP
tracks with interactive video mapping and production tutorials, created in
collaboration with Powerhouse and EMC.
EMMA DONOVAN & THE PUTBACKS
Acclaimed Indigenous vocalist Emma Donovan and Melbourne rhythm combo The Putbacks burst onto the scene with Dawn (2014), announcing a new voice in Australian soul music. They reunited in 2020 with the critically acclaimed album Crossover. Emma’s first gigs were singing in the family band, The Donovans and then went on to tour and record with many mainstays of Indigenous music, including Archie Roach and the Black Arm Band. It was in this group that Emma’s journey with The Putbacks began. As a band, they are one of the tightest, sharpest, slickest and most dynamic music units to ever exist.
Emma Donovan & The Putbacks will use their funding to tour regionally, taking their music to new communities and sharing various songs in the traditional language. On each tour stop, they will also endeavour to run music workshops to further integrate their music into each community that they visit.
LA LA LA’S
La La Las is Wollongong’s youngest and most tenacious live music venue. Spread across three levels, the venue offers functional spaces for any event. The perfect place to blow the froth off a few, catch a few scorchin’ bands and to see your favourite obscure late-night DJ. La La La’s rose from the ashes of the 2020 NSW lockdown to close out the year with 5+ events a week, with no signs of slowing that momentum in 2021.
La La Las will use their grant to purchase their own DJ equipment, allowing them to diversify the acts and events that they can host at the venue. La La Las prides themselves on being inclusive and hopes to reach a broader range of music communities with the help of this initiative.
RVG
In April 2020 Melbourne’s RVG shared their highly anticipated second album, Feral unto the world. Following their beloved 2017 debut ‘A Quality of Mercy’, RVG perform the tricky alchemy of combining rock’s urgency, punk’s anarchy, and pop’s empathy to create a record that feels vital. Feral is a catharsis, a call to arms, and a forthright indictment of contemporary complacency.
Ahead of the recording of their third album, and shows returning in full force, RVG will use their funding to purchase equipment and hone their
live set up. It will allow them access to gear they can use both at rehearsal
and on stage.
STUDIO WEEK
We selected 50 awesome Aussie artists and bands to spend a day each in some of Australia’s most iconic recording studios. These artists have also been paired with some of our most renowned producers, and had the opportunity to meet with industry leaders Emily Nichol, Nina Las Vegas and Nick Yates for a Virtual Mentoring Workshop prior to their studio session.
Once they've completed their day in-studio, this talented group will have the opportunity to submit their recorded track to the Music Backers Judging Panel, who will then select one artist to receive a AU$5,000 grant to go towards releasing and promoting their music.
| ARIST/GROUP | LOCATION | STUDIO | PRODUCER |
|---|---|---|---|
| Darling Brando |
NSW | Forbes St | Michael Zuvela
|
| Exile S.C. | NSW | Forbes St | Laura Parker
|
| Double Touch | NSW | Forbes St | Lewis Mitchell
|
| SMALLS | NSW | Forbes St | Lewis Mitchell
|
| Oscar Thorburn | NSW | Forbes St | Dan Frizza
|
| Human Movement | NSW | Forbes St |
Anthony Garvin
|
| Daniel Rhys | NSW | Forbes St | Anthony Garvin
|
| jitwam | NSW | Studio 301 | Antonia Gauci
|
| Pirra | NSW | Studio 301 |
Antonia Gauci |
| Goodnight Japan | NSW | Studio 301 | Antonia Gauci |
Andy Garvey
|
NSW | Studio 301 | Simon Cohen
|
| Tylah Winyard | NSW | Studio 301 | Simon Cohen
|
| ATHANASIA | NSW | Tommirock Studios |
Mitta Norath
|
| Columbus | NSW | Tommirock Studios | Mitta Norath |
| Before the King | NSW |
Tommirock Studios | Mitta Norath |
| Renwick | NSW | Tommirock Studios | Mitta Norath |
Georgia Maq
|
VIC | Head Gap Studios | Anna Laverty
|
| Wurli | VIC | Head Gap Studios | Finn Keane
|
| The Mean Times | VIC | Head Gap Studios | Anna Laverty
|
| Benjamin Trillado | VIC |
Head Gap Studios | Rohan Sforcina
|
| Brittany Jacinto-Garcia | VIC | Head Gap Studios |
Anna Laverty
|
| Fools | VIC | Sing Sing Studios | Adam Rhodes
|
| Close Counters | VIC | Sing Sing Studios | Eileen Sparks
|
| AM Reruns | VIC | Sing Sing Studios | Aaron Dobos
|
| Arsniv | VIC | Sing Sing Studios |
Aaron Dobos |
| Speakeasy | VIC | Sing Sing Studios | Adam Rhodes
|
| Rachel Caddy | VIC | Sing Sing Studios |
Adam Rhodes |
| Mizuki | VIC | Sing Sing Studios | Eileen Sparks
|
| Shaun Kirk | VIC | Sing Sing Studios | Adam Rhodes |
| Rosalind | VIC | Sing Sing Studios |
Adam Rhodes |
| Barefoot Bowls Club | VIC |
Sing Sing Studios |
Aaron Dobos
|
Young Vincent
|
VIC | Sing Sing Studios | Aaron Dobos |
| Daniel Elia | VIC | Sing Sing Studios | Aaron Dobos |
| Asha Jefferies | QLD | Airlock Studios | Ian Haug |
| Blaq Carrie | QLD | Airlock Studios | Yanto Browning
|
| Chevron | QLD | Airlock Studios | Yanto Browning
|
| Georgia Dutton | QLD | Airlock Studios | Yanto Browning |
| Oskar Campbell | QLD | Airlock Studios | Yanto Browning |
| Ella Fence | QLD | Studio Circuit | Brock Weston
|
| ELSKA | QLD | Studio Circuit | Brock Weston |
| Beddy Rays | QLD | Studio Circuit | Brock Weston |
| Alt Fiction | QLD | Airlock Studios | Brock Weston |
KMAY
|
QLD | Airlock Studios | Eddie Jacobsen
|
| LOS LEO | SA | Mixmasters | Michael Carver
|
| Teenage Joans | SA | Mixmasters | Mick Wordley
|
| Frank Henry | SA | Mixmasters | Kiah Gossner
|
| SEABASS | SA |
Mixmasters | Mick Wordley
|
| Zack Linton | WA | Fremantle | David Jones
|
| COTERIE | WA | Fremantle | David Jones
|
| Marsvilla | NT | Studio G | James Mangohig
|
NOMINATE A MATE
American Express and Support Act were overwhelmed with the stories of some seriously inspiring Aussies who have been doing their bit to keep the music playing. Our judges had the enormous task of selecting 100 recipients, who each received a AU$1,500 cash boost. Plus, 20 nominators received a AU$250 TicketMaster Gift Card to get back out to live music when the time is right!
A huge congratulations to our recipients – we love what you’ve been doing to keep the music playing!
| Adam | VIC | Tradie by day, muso by night - Adam is the definition of someone who lives and breathes music. From volunteer gigs to paid performances, Adam is now live streaming his tunes and also working on a festival for local artists affected by the pandemic. |
| Adam | NSW | Adam is a production manager at Heaps Decent. He's driven to provide an opportunity for young people to make music, breaking down cultural barriers and building an entrepreneurial spirit amongst minority communities across Australia. |
| Alan | VIC | A performer in the children's entertainment group The Mik Maks, Al's group has pivoted to digital streaming every Saturday morning to engage and connect with children and families stuck at home. The performances are educational and engaging, with his YouTube channel growing to over 1.5M subscribers and millions of streams in Australia and worldwide. |
| Alexander | VIC | In light of the pandemic, Alex has produced and mixed music for emerging bands for free. Despite a number of tours being cancelled, the Columbus band member has kept his chin up and performed live streams including Isolaid, provided music writing sessions over zoom and genuinely helps out his fellow muso's wherever he can. |
| Allara | VIC | Allara was one of the driving forces behind First Nations Women In Music. The program provides a culturally safe place for First Nations artists to express their concerns and seek guidance through the music industry. As an artist, Allara's music is centred around environmental preservation, resilience and today's struggles of First Nation people today. |
| Antonio | NSW | A professional pianist and accompanist, Antonio recently joined the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Choir and his passion for music and generosity in sharing his knowledge, often pro-bono or at mate's rates, hasn't gone unnoticed. Antonio has recently presented a Facebook series on Copyright Law and General Finance for Musicians; offering his expertise on a pay-what-you-can model. |
| Benny | VIC | Benny is a First Nations Australian singer songwriter with a killer blues and rock sound. Having performed at Folk Festivals, he's spent lock down in Victoria performing at virtual events to support small businesses, communities and music lovers and recently produced his third album. Above all, he's a genuinely caring and talented performer. |
| Billy | VIC | Billy is a producer, songwriter and saxophonist based in Melbourne. He plays in and creatively contributes to a number of musical projects helps bring the unique creative vision of artists to life through the thoughtful use of electronic production techniques, unconventional sounds and his background which straddles the worlds of jazz, classical, folk and electronica. He's also gearing up to manage an online webinar series celebrating the skill of women and non-binary songwriters and producers. |
| Brandon | NSW | Brandon is an industrious musician with a helping hand and kind heart. He began 2020 with the independent release of his debut album What a Way To Die, which landed him a supporting spot on American singer-songwriter Patty Griffin's Australian tour. And then the pandemic hit and everything was canned. Adapting in this difficult time, Brandon launched a new recording studio, released a debut album and starting teaching guitar. He's also created a platform for fellow muso's to create and share original music; providing financial support to local businesses and free entertainment to residences of the Copacabana community. |
| Charles | NSW | A guitarist, pianist, singer song-writer and overall good guy - Charles volunteers at Midnight Feast Theatre that enables artists with physical, intellectual and emotional challenges to participate in performing arts. He's a 'yes man' constantly helping others out and has taken to composing music for their new series Liberty St. |
| Chris | VIC | Chris is the Sub Editor at Acid Stag - an Australian music news website. In every piece that he writes, Chris showcases his love and admiration for the work that each Australian artist produces, and gives readers a compelling case to make sure they don't miss out on the next big thing! |
| Christina | VIC | Christina has used her time in lockdown to assemble a diverse group of local musicians to contribute to A Long Time Alone (ALTA) a new mixtape of tracks composed by members of Australia's underground in isolation. The mix tape showcases the depth of Australia's outsider music community across 30 tracks and has given local musicians something to be excited for and work towards. She's keeping the music playing. |
| Dallas | VIC | Dallas is a fiercely independent musician and advocate for emerging female artists. Having clocked over 1000 shows home and around the globe, Dallas has recently mentored hundreds of women within the local music and First Nations communities and so much more. Her end game is to continue empowering more women in music leadership roles. |
| Daria | NSW | Known as a 'quintessential social media butterfly' by friends, Darcy (aka Daria) is a well known and loved member of the Orange Hospital ICU and Recovery ward. With a strong love for country music, Darcy is constantly praising local artists and sharing new music amongst her community. |
| David | SA | David is a great encourager of emerging local talent. He utilises his home recording studio, often pro-bono, to work with young artists to develop their song writing, singing and general music skills. Most of the people he works with wouldn't normally have the contacts or resources to access and record an original song. Yet, he does it no questions asked. |
| Elise | QLD | After a rough couple of years personally, Elise has kept her head high and inspires everyone around her. She's recently started a business focused on teaching songwriting and music production to younger female audiences, often providing free lessons to young muso's during the pandemic. An incredible musician, Elise puts others first. |
| Elizabeth | NSW | Liz and Rich teach music lessons for Cobargo Public School kids. Despite losing all of their income (we're talking 100%),they've persevered to do whatever they can to continue music classes despite the events of 2020. They coordinated a community donation of unused instruments for kids in the Cobargo and surrounding districts to play from home, have taken to online lessons and so much more. They're selfless but local heroes nonetheless. |
| Elle | VIC | Elle aka Woodes is an Aussie musician, singer-songwriter and producer from Melbourne. Recently, Elle faced the pandemic restrictions face on and created an innovative Minecraft World for her Woodling followers to launch her upcoming album; and even a music video for one of the songs. This is the definition of an independent muso #pivoting to the new normal. |
| Emily | VIC | As the programmer of Brunswick Music Festival, Emily was half way through the festival in mid March the pandemic hit and everything was cancelled. Knowing how this would affect artists, Emily worked with Moreland City Council to ensure all artists booked for the festival were paid their full fee. She went on to help create Isolaid which has done so much for our music community. Emily's also a mentor, has a monthly ABC Radio segment and writes music. |
| Georgia | VIC | With exceptionally strong vocals and lyrical integrity, Georgia is a voice for women's rights and the LGBTIQ community. The lead singer of punk act Camp Cope, Georgia recently branched out for her own solo debut . When Georgia sings or speaks - people listen. |
| Heather | NSW | Dedicating over 60 years to the music industry, Heather started out as music teacher and long-time coordinator of the Camden Community Carols Festival. A piano teacher, mentor and educator, Heather went on to establish Agape Music - a non-profit music tuition academy of performing excellence; and Amazing Grace Singers. |
| Jackson | NSW | Jackson has spent his increased time at home writing more music. A collaborator with local artists, teacher and community radio DJ; his passion for music inspires many and keeps the community feeling connected. |
| Jacqui | NSW | Dubbed by her friends as the 'Queen of Arts Marketing', Jacqui's enthusiasm and non-stop energy has seen her captivate audiences for her many artist clients. She recently won a tender to curate the arts for a part of the 2020 Dubai Expo which was cancelled due to the pandemic. |
| Jane | NSW | Jane has a reputation as a hard working advocate for live electronic music in Australia. Her work is behind many well known initiatives like Electronic Music Conference, Global Cities After Dark and more recently, a steering committee member on the establishment of the Austrian Live Music Business Council and part of the EMC Connect Session on Live Streaming. An artist manager, board member and activist - Jane is passionate about the industry succeeding despite whatever challenges are thrown its way. |
| Jeremy | VIC | Jeremy is a musical mentor, confidante and teacher of Gamelan Indonesian percussive music. His talent, energy, enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the cultural artform has not only taught but inspired many. Jeremy provides exceptionally affordable classes and welcomes everyone with open arms and a smile. |
| Jeremy | VIC | Music mentor and co-owner of live music venue The Bridge Hotel, Jeremy has worked tirelessly to keep the business afloat. He also has rolled up his sleeve to help others out including organising the Thornbury Theatre Bushfire Appeal which raised over $49K donated to the Red Cross, First Nations Fire Relief Fund and Wildlife Victoria. His ambition and innovative thinking has inspired many. |
| Jim (Dave) | SA | Jim aka DJ Dave Collins started his career as a Royal Navy Chef in the UK. Even from the ship's kitchen his love for music was apparent; where he later became a radio pirate playing underground music in London that the BBC frowned upon. Fast forward a couple of decades, and a different hemisphere, Dave is a well-known and passionate volunteer radio host on Adelaide's Fresh FM92.7. |
| JJ | VIC | JJ is part of the online music support group Oz Music Hustlers, designing online initiatives and meetups for their hundreds of members. Music festival guru and former Director of Sofar Sounds Melbourne, he's used this time in lockdown to design and grow the new social enterprise HideOut Music. The platform encourages the growth, practice and collaboration of local artists by providing intimate and unconventional performances spaces and hands-on educational programs. What a legend. |
| Jono | VIC | Often a quiet achiever, Jono is a well-known sound engineer and tour manager working with some of Australia's household names and emerging talent. He's the brain power behind many successful fundraising efforts for the industry and despite a loss in income, created a remote recording facility for Aussie artists. |
| Kerry | NSW | A driving force in the Aussie dance music scene, standout DJ Kerry is the brainchild of internationally renowned S.A.S.H house and dance music events. S.A.S.H has brought over some of the best international and local underground talent. He's toured countless artists and is dedicated to providing an epic, inclusive and safe space for dance and house lovers. |
| Kurt | VIC | Kurt runs a record label Psychic Hysteria that supports underrepresented musicians and musical styles. He often puts the artists over his own finances and champions for female and gender diverse voices in the industry. A community radio DJ, he is also part of the booking team at music venue The Old Bar, curating a First Nations fundraiser. |
| Lachlan | VIC | Lachlan has been supporting our First Nations Community through music education for kids in remote communities. He (quietly) donated his favourite guitar, a black Fender mustang, and other accessories to the Mutitjulu Community in the NT and plans to teach guitar and rock music when things eventually get back to normal. He's selfless and driven to keep the music playing - wherever you live. |
| Leah | VIC | The lead songwriter, singer and rhythm guitarist for Melbourne garage band Psychobabel, Leah's group, like so many others, had lined-up gigs cancelled including a support slot at BluesFest with Eagles of Death Metal, and delays for the launch of their latest single. Leah kept spirits high and paid for recording, mixing, marketing and more out of her own pocket. She does so much for others and expects nothing in return. |
| Leigh | TAS | Through his live streaming and fundraising initiatives, Leigh raised $15K that was donated to support musicians and their families who have lost their income due to the pandemic. He's hustled musicians to share their music and interviewed several local businesses to help promote their brands. |
| Louise | NSW | Lou is an artist manager and promoter who cares deeply about her artists and the wider music community. After the recent devastating bushfires, Lou helped raise thousands of dollars for Lawson Music School; and drove 6 hours each way to deliver drum kits off her own back. That's just one of her selfless stories. |
| Marcel | VIC | Marcel is a sonic experience designer and has designed numerous prototypes of musical interfaces for autistic children, helping them to communicate through sound. He's working on creating a fabric which responds to touch, allowing people with limited mobility, either because of physical or mental disability, to be able to communicate with each other by using touch and gesture. |
| Mason | QLD | Mason kicked off 2020 creating a music video about Men's mental health and helped facilitate important dialogue and connection between many health and community providers. A volunteer with Headspace, he is using his time to showcase an online showcase event for artists and songwriting workshops. He's the real deal, one of the good guys. |
| Matthew | VIC | A touring engineer for Tame Impala for a few years now, Matt has also written and helped to master award-winning soundtracks for critically- acclaimed video games. COVID has devastated his business, but he is keeping on with upskilling and writing killer music, with his head held high. |
| Patrick | VIC | Through their work as a writer and DJ, Pat has championed and showcased queer artists, bringing them to the forefront in everything they do. DJ'ing as Tilda Swagton, Pat has played many queer parties and at each of these, Pat pushes queer pop, dance and house artists to the forefront of their set, igniting others love of music and feeling connected. |
| Phillip | VIC | Phil is a DJ and music producer who constantly shares his skills and finds ways to bring others up with him. This year he's spearheaded two projects that engage and connect local music lovers, and raised significant funds for the First Nation community in direct response to Black Lives Matter. |
| Roderick (Wally) | VIC | Wally and his crew created The Roadie Show - Live At the Café. The youtube series provided an opportunity to keep musicians, roadies and entertainers engaged and an outlet to do what they love during the lockdown. |
| Samuel | NSW | Sam lives and breathes music. His band The Holy Soul has toured the globe playing with international and Aussie acts. More recently, he facilitates Club Weld - a studio for musicians on the Autism spectrum, coordinating weekly studio sessions and co-producing performances. |
| Sarah | VIC | Sarah graciously self-manages her bands and does whatever she can to help them succeed, even self-teaching editing using free software and tutorials on how to digitally release music. She's done all of this for free, while holding down a full-time job and working from home. |
| Sebastian | VIC | Sebastian is a graphic designer and drummer with a profound knack, knowledge and proactivity in discovering new Aussies artists. He is the Creative Director and Co-founder of the Isolaid Festival which has done an epic job of showcasing independent and upcoming artists. |
| Stuart | NSW | A career spanning 3 decades, Stuart has played drums for Jimmy Barnes, Tim Freedman and Arrabato Ensemble. His nuance in understanding what rhythm brings to music is something many others have benefited from through his Trash Drums private lessons. Unfortunately, times have been tough business wise for Stuart but he's still determined to share his knowledge and skills with school kids and adults alike. |
| Sue | VIC | Sue is a songwriter, singer, workshop leader and choir director. Her catalogue of original music has been performed around Australia and the world. As the first lockdown in Melbourne swamped the city - Sue hit the ground running - keeping her choirs afloat via online platforms and supported other choir leaders who were also suffering. By sharing original scores and arrangements, Sue offered a life line to her colleagues and singers. All this, while facing her own gig losses, tours being cancelled and an uncertain future in music. |
| Troy | VIC | A radio volunteer and music events specialist, Troy has supported our First Nations musicians (often out of his own pocket) to put on epic music events including: x3 Naidoc events, x4 music nights at The Night Cat and a plethora of other safe, inclusive performance spaces and events. He's working on producing his own radio show and hopes to bring good vibes, good news and good content to Australia and beyond. |
| Vicki | NSW | Local Nambucca Valley Radio (2NVR 105.9FM) veteran and volunteer; Vicki has brought smiles and music to listeners for over 11 years. Her show and efforts to promote and support independent country music artists has been widely recognised, including a nomination at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. In recent times, Vicki has continued to advocate and share music online including the Hats Off To Country online concert. |
| William | VIC | William is a live sound engineer and lighting operator; and fierce guitarist. A student at the Australian College of the Arts, he was named Mixing Engineer of 2019 and is working on an EP for a musician within his local muso community and so much more. |
| Ying | NSW | Ying is a performer and teacher of erhu - a Chinese two-stringed viol. Ying has taught at Western Sydney University and online, sharing her spirit and skills with students across the country and as far as Russia! Her positive spirit and commitment to building cross-cultural connections through music hasn't gone unnoticed. |
| Alessandro | VIC | One of Australia's top guitar technicians, Alessandro has been using his experience to help the Melbourne music community with repairs and instrument servicing while times are tough. |
| Alex | VIC | Alex, known for his musical talent and generosity, studies classical and jazz piano at the VCA. He regularly shares his experience to help others, at no cost to them. |
| Andy | SA | Andy runs one of South Australia's top independent recording and production studios. Despite the challenges of 2020, he's continued to provide cost-effective recording and support for many local artists. |
| Anna | VIC | An advocate for women in Australian music production, Anna regularly works with up-and-coming producers and artists, helping to develop their confidence and business acumen. |
| Benjamin | VIC | Ben has booked gigs for bands in the Melbourne music scene for over a decade. When the pandemic hit, he was integral in creating Save Our Scene in support of small to medium venues, which campaigns for government relief for small to medium venues. |
| Benny | VIC | Benny manages bands, local music festivals and his own live venue. Recently things have been tough, but that hasn't stop Benny creating his own record label to provide support and exposure to local musos. |
| Beth | NSW | Beth has played in numerous orchestras including the Sydney Symphony and Opera. Through Zoom and the ACO schools program, Beth teaches young children from varied locations and socioeconomic backgrounds. |
| Bradley | VIC | Brad created the Instagram account roadies_who_cook, providing a place for road crews around the globe to showcase their culinary skills during lockdown. |
| Brent | TAS | Brent is a musical and visual artist/collective force in the Aussie music industry. He's created videos and album covers for a number of Aussie music legends and continues to work remotely with artists across the country. |
| Brett | NSW | Brett is a Music Director at Sydney Philharmonic Choirs, and has ensured all Choristers have access to music in various formats so they can continue learning while in isolation. |
| Cameron | NSW | Cam is as selfless as they come. Having worked alongside our biggest musical exports, he's known for his 'mates rates' to help give emerging artists a go. He's working on a big 3D animation project, so keep an eye out! |
| Cath | VIC | Cath has continued to manage and support her artists despite everything 2020 has brought. Cath is a well known leader in the industry lobbying and advising government in the early stages of what how COVID will affect the industry and what support is needed. |
| Charlotte | VIC | A well-respected artist manager and mentor, Charlotte regularly shares her learnings, participating in various panels. Charlotte's main focus has been raising awareness and funds for Indigenous and Mental Health issues, and has helped to raise up to $50,000 for Support Act in recent months. |
| Chris | WA | Chris lives and breathes music. An avid guitar player, he hosts a radio show called Living, Laughing and Learning and writes music. He wrote a theme song for the charity Spectrum Fusion that encourages people on the Spectrum to embrace their creative skills. |
| Christopher | VIC | A young composer, Chris established the online site A Concerto for Isolated Musicians. The forum enables young musos stuck at home to perform as a whole or standalone concerto piece. |
| Daniel | NSW | Daniel is a passionate musician who has spent recent months growing an online music teaching businesses. He offers private drum and songwriting lessons via Zoom and currently has 20 students of various ages and backgrounds. |
| Danniel | VIC | A qualified teacher and bass player extraordinaire, Danniel recently created online music schools Cubby House Rock and High Voltage Rock School that have been adopted by schools and private groups across Melbourne. |
| Deena (aka Jaguar) | QLD | Deena aka Jaguar Jonze is a Brissy-based singer, songwriter and photographer. Her work raises awareness of harassment, and mental health issues within the industry, and she is often spokesperson for other musos. |
| Denise | QLD | Denise is a music industry leader and has dedicated her skills as a social worker and intermediary to the local Brissy music community. |
| Duan | NSW | Duan is a local musician gigging around Manly, and his mate Morgan is a stellar camera man and TV host. When the pandemic hit, the duo set up a stage and live streaming cameras to keep the music playing that's captured over 800 guests a session and the local news! |
| Eileen | VIC | Eileen is a sound engineer and cellist. She's recently stepped up during the pandemic to help other musicians during this time, often free of charge and without recognition. |
| Isabella | VIC | Izzy is an aspiring musician. A singer, songwriter and piano player, she's staying positive and bringing her gigs to fans via live -streaming. |
| Jackie | VIC | Jackie is an artist and was teaching at the VCA until the pandemic hit. A victim of bullying within the industry, the songwriter is a strong advocate against violence towards women and inspires those around her. |
| Jamie | VIC | Making an incredible commitment during a year of crisis, Jamie has been working to provide support to the Aussie music industry. He has organised charity events and recorded music with local and international musos to raise funds for the bushfires and pandemic relief, with a few more on the way! |
| Jez | NSW | Jez founded Acid Stag, one of our leading music news websites. Jez is known for dedicating his time and efforts to help emerging artists, despite not being paid. |
| Joel | ACT | Joel is a band member and enjoys mentoring musicians and teaching the art of songwriting at MusicACTs. He's recently organised a musicians forum in Canberra and inspires the local creative community. |
| Joel | VIC | Joel's been doing his bit for Aussie music for over a decade, is an advocate for diversity in music and has worked with many renowned artists. He's just had his first child and has big plans to move his studio into his spare room at home! |
| Joseph | QLD | Joseph started Merch Desk - an initiative that allows artists to sell their merchant and retain a large share of the profits. For Joseph, it's all about support indie artists. |
| Justine | VIC | Justine teaches the flute, piano and saxophone, as well as composing and playing her own music. She's part of the 17 piece Melba Big Band, playing 1930's and 40's tunes. |
| Kev | NSW | Kev is a community radio superstar with 30 years as a DJ at 2RRR. He is a true champion of the underground music scene and promotes local artists wherever he can. |
| Lakesha | NSW | Lakesha, aka Lil Kootsie, is an emerging Indigenous artist from the Northern Territory. With her gig at Darwin Festival cancelled, Lakeesha has kept her head high and has been performing at Bushfire appeals, as well as Coastchella, and most recently opened for Ripple Effect. |
| Leanne | VIC | Leanne and her partner run The Last Chance Rock and Roll Bar. The venue has cultivated a real sense of community and provides opportunities to small bands to perform and hone their style. |
| Leonie | QLD | Leonie is an artist who had to cancel her booked live shows to help her family through the pandemic. She has thrown herself into writing music, livestreaming performances for the LGBTQIA+ community, and working tirelessly as an Ambassador for Listen Up Music. |
| Leonie | NSW | Leonie is a volunteer radio announcer who has dedicated her life to helping independent artists get radio airplay. When she's not on the air, Leonie is travelling to country festivals and private performances to encourage and support Aussie musicians. |
| Lucie | VIC | Lucie has spent most of her career managing music venues. Despite being stood down, Lucie helped create the Save Our Scene campaign and successfully lodged a petition to the Victorian Government with 15,000+ signatures, calling on support for the creative industry. |
| Luke | VIC | Luke has been tirelessly pulling together resources and support for music folks that have been hit hard this year. As part of Support Act, his dedication and commitment to support our industry hasn't gone unnoticed. |
| Mary | NSW | Mary loves music. She's transformed her front porch into her stage and provides entertainment and joy to the street every Friday afternoon. A former vocal coach, Mary invites past students to sing live from her porch. |
| Morgan | VIC | Duan is a local musician gigging around Manly, and his mate Morgan is a stellar cameraman and TV host. When the pandemic hit, the duo set up a stage and live-streaming cameras to keep the music playing. They've captured over 800 guests a session and even been on the local news! |
| Patrick | NSW | Pat runs a small independent record label called Motorik! Records. Despite the pandemic, Pat opened a gallery, recording studios and record store on Oxford Street, and has been working hard to create a space for artists. |
| Rachel | VIC | Rachel runs Little Feet Music - a live music and movement program for babies, toddler and pre-school kids. The pandemic didn't stop her, and she transitioned to online classes so the kids still get their weekly dose of entertainment and music education. |
| Rubi | NSW | Rubi is one half of a dream team paving the way to make the music industry a safer place for all. They're developing a framework for companies that better protects staff, arming them with the tools needed to properly deal with sexual harassment claims. |
| Sharon | QLD | Sharon is a business owner and hard-working muso on the Sunshine Coast. Once restrictions eased, and despite no income, Sharon offered free workshops to musicians to help them navigate the new normal. |
| Siobhan | VIC | Siobhan has a reputation for putting others first, in anyway she can. An audiologist specialising in hearing in the music industry, this muso and Magnets band member, has spent much of her time sewing fashionable and fun scrubs and masks for our nursing staff. |
| Siobhan | VIC | Siobhan is a highly-respected and fierce lover of Aussie music. Despite taking a major cut, her passion for representing the marginalized, supporting new artists and ensuring fair opportunities for women in music hasn't gone unnoticed. |
| Stacey | VIC | Stephen recently formed the Australian Live Music Business Council as a voice for medium and small sized businesses on the road to recovery. The Council represents over 65,000 jobs from booking agents to food vendors, and publicists to road crews. |
| Tonia | VIC | As a music teacher, Tonia has been inspiring children across Melbourne to pick up an instrument. When the pandemic hit, Tonia created Oxygen Music for Kids - free 30-minute online music classes for 3 to 5 years old. The classes now have over 120 families and over 200 children signed up. |
| Toshi | VIC | Toshi is an arranger, composer and a driving force behind Jazz Melbourne, and Studio Youth Big Bands. Often investing time and money without compensation, these initiatives provide an outlet for jazz lovers. |
| Tyrolin | NSW | Tyrolin is a passionate music and performing artist teacher, renowned for her music and community service. In recent times Tyrolin has created and recorded content to keep her students active during lockdown. |
| Zachary |
NSW | Zac and his social justice band Dipare set on changing the world with a powerful message of change. He's been busy creating a music family, by bringing people in off the streets and introducing them to the world of music. |
| Jade Zoe | VIC | Nominated Phillip |
| Kristen | NSW | Nominated Kerry |
| Woodie | NSW | Nominated Brandon |
| Karen | TAS | Nominated Leigh |
| Jessica | QLD | Nominated Elise |
| Simon | VIC | Nominated Isabella |
| Natalie | VIC | Nominated Alessandro |
| Leticia | SA | Nominated Andy |
| Susan | VIC | Nominated Christopher |
| April | VIC | Nominated Alexander |
| Stephanie | NSW | Nominated Duan |
| Tom | QLD | Nominated Joseph |
| Eric | VIC | Nominated Lucie |
| Antony | VIC | Nominated Joel |
| Vienna | QLD | Nominated Leonie |
| Alyse | VIC | Nominated Charlotte |
| Cerisa | NSW | Nominated Lakesha |
| Amy | VIC | Nominated Jeremy |
| Tess | VIC | Nominated Billy |
| Jolene | NSW | Nominated Louise |
2018/19 GRANT RECIPIENTS
| Artists | Music Businesses |
|---|---|
| Adam Harpaz |
Bad Apples Music |
| Angie McMahon | Bakehouse studios |
| Caiti Baker | Bank Records |
| Cub Sport | Bellbird Studios |
| Didirri | Cactus Room |
| Ecca Vandal | Crowbar Sydney |
| Elliot | Don’t Fret Club |
| Gussy | Fat Controller Club |
| Haiku Hands | Fredas |
| Imbi | GRID Series |
| Jack Colwell | Heaps Gay |
| Jordie Ireland | Ricochet Songs KLP |
| Keelan Mak | Lost Ones Basement Bar |
| Kota Banks | Music Industry Inside Out |
| L-Fresh the Lion | Selina’s (Coogee Bay Hotel NSW) |
| Lime Cordiale | Stonecutter Festival |
| Maddy Jane | The Newsagency |
| Mama Kin Spender | The Zoo |
| Mission Songs Project (Jessie Lloyd) | The Polish Club |
| Mo’Ju (FKA Mojo Juju) | |
| Mookhi | |
| MUTO | |
| Rachel Maria Cox | |
| Riley Pearce | |
| St. South | |
| Stella Donnelly | |
| The Money War | |
| Tia Gostelow | |
| Treehouses | |
| Wesley Fuller | |
| Young Franco |
Here’s a sample of how past recipients have used their funding to turn ideas into reality:
Young Franco
We backed Young Franco in creating his own world (literally) with 3D body scanning. Go behind-the-scenes on set of his music clip 'Angel' Ft. Abhi The Nomad.
Music businesses
Struggle is real for many small businesses. Check out how we’re backing Freda's, The Newsagency & Music Industry Inside Out
Cub Sport
From their home studio in Brisbane to playlists around the world. It’s all eyes on Cub Sport and their latest single ‘I Never Cried So Much in My Whole Life’. We’re pumped to have backed them all the way.
Ricochet Songs
More artists, more writing rooms, and more songs. KLP (aka Kristy Peters) has evolved the Ricochet Songs Workshop to empower even more epic artists. See how.
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