STUDIO MONKEY SHOULDER RETURNS TO BOOST UK GRASSROOTS MUSIC SCENE FOR A SECOND YEAR

From today, Studio Monkey Shoulder will once again invite grassroots music communities from the UK to apply for a £10,000 grant which will supercharge a growing music project, spotlighting their scene on a global scale.

The initiative, created by Monkey Shoulder whisky and Worldwide FM, is back to empower more ambitious, homegrown grassroots music communities who are innovating in their scenes. From independent record stores to DIY music venues, online radio stations, and beyond. The initiative protects the spaces where people connect, create and discover music – which are critical to a thriving music ecosystem.

Now in its second year, Studio Monkey Shoulder is re-joining forces with iconic founder, DJ and broadcaster, Gilles Peterson, as well as online radio station, Worldwide FM, to award one UK community the fund and resources to bring their big, original project to life this summer.

As well as funding, the winner will tell their story through a series of films and radio broadcasts produced by Worldwide FM.

Broadcaster, DJ and founder of Worldwide FM, Gilles Peterson, said 

“I’m thrilled to see Studio Monkey Shoulder grow in its second year in partnership with Worldwide FM. It’s been a privilege to work with the communities we supported in 2024, seeing their projects thrive and come to life. I’m excited to uncover more amazing community-driven projects in the UK and witness the talent that comes with it as the project evolves in year two.”

Last year, Studio Monkey Shoulder selected winner: Gut Level, a Sheffield-based event series which supports a newly opened DIY venue, aiming to create an affordable and inclusive nightlife space prioritising women, queer and marginalised groups.

“Studio Monkey Shoulder came to us at a crucial time. In all honesty, the Chapel Walk space would not have survived the summer without it, so we owe a huge debt of gratitude to Gilles and the team for seeing something special in the Gut Level project and backing us”

Last year’s UK fund recipients, Gut Level.

Due to the immense response last year, the initiative is committed to platforming worthy, shortlisted applicants throughout the year. Peckham-based Orii Community were invited to headline opposite DaMetalMessiah at the ‘Studio Monkey Shoulder’ stage at We Out Here festival 2024 in Dorset, alongside Bristolian nightlife staples: Noods Radio and Saffron Records.

The project offers grants to grassroots groups across the world, as this year the team will select five winners from the UK, India, Nigeria, Taiwan and Germany.