A breakthrough for regional arts is underway as Playback Creates launches a bold, not-for-profit push to discover and develop South Asian music talent in Wolverhampton and the Black Country. The Homegrown scheme is specifically designed to address a long-standing gap in tailored, culturally-informed development opportunities for South Asian creatives. Free access and a carefully curated six-week program place real opportunities within reach of aspiring artists who might otherwise be overlooked.
Up to 10 musicians, singers, rappers and producers aged 16-30 will take part, with the chance to create and record their own music from start to finish. Over six weeks, participants will gain professional studio time, hands-on mentoring from industry figures, and the experience of performing at a final showcase. The scheme runs from January to February 2026, culminating in a March finale at Vaal & Vaal, where participants present work to industry guests and receive feedback.
Two full days of professional recording will take place at the APS Studios in Wolverhampton Arts Centre, enabling participants to produce a mixed and mastered track. The project is supported by Arts Council England funding, with Punch Records as the industry partner. Dr Harpreet Singh Jandu, known as Panjabi By Nature (PBN), explains the mission: “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.” He adds that 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.
The initiative is open to anyone from South Asian communities living in Wolverhampton and the Black Country, welcoming applicants who are musicians, singer-songwriters, rappers, producers, beatmakers, or other music creatives at an entry level. Applications are submitted via the Playback Creates website, with the broader aim of building lasting spaces for young voices to shape the future of UK music.
Playback Creates emphasises that Homegrown is more than a short-term opportunity; it is a deliberate step toward widening access to career-building experiences and visibility for South Asian artists in the region. If successful, the program could pave the way for additional initiatives that nurture talent, mentorship, and industry connections beyond the initial cohort.
