Remap launch L-R Dr Mat Flynn, Mica Sefia, Yaw Owusu, Emy Onuora, Ngunan Adamu, Brodie Arthur, Eunice Obiangha
The University of Liverpool’s Institute of Popular Music has collaborated with the Liverpool City Region Music Board to release ground-breaking new research into the experiences of Black music makers and practitioners across the City Region.
Headed up by Dr Mat Flynn from the University’s Department of Music, research from the ReMap report, conducted between 2021 and 2023, engages individuals from the Black music community through interviews, surveys, and focus groups. The report combines the results of each research component to provide a detailed overview of how Black individuals contribute to and participate in the region’s music sector, along with the challenges they encounter.
Covering topics such as accessibility, representation, equality, and regional dynamics, the report offers valuable insights for stakeholders at both local and national levels.
The report’s recommendations outline actionable steps for fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for Black musicians and industry professionals. These recommendations include the development of a clear Liverpool City Region Black music strategy, targeted funding initiatives, feasibility studies for dedicated Black music venues, and the establishment of professional networks and mentorship programs.
The report was launched at a Black owned music venue, District, in Liverpool City Centre on 10th April, with the findings and recommendations presented and discussed with contributions from esteemed industry figures, including Founder and Director of ENSPIRE Management and UK Music’s Head of Diversity, Eunice Obianagha.
Speaking at the launch of the report Dr Mat Flynn from the University of Liverpool said: “I’m delighted that University of Liverpool research has contributed to important recommendations for Black music makers and practitioners which is step toward the improving the diversity, inclusivity and representativeness of the City Region’s thriving music scene.
“At the Institute of Popular Music we look forward to further collaborating with the Liverpool City Region Music Board to ensure that we continue to progress this important research.”
The Report has received praise from various national organisations, including Black Lives in Music. Dr Charisse Beaumont, Chief Executive of Black Lives in Music, said: “The ReMap Report illuminates the pivotal role of Black music makers and practitioners in the Liverpool City Region, it presents a comprehensive analysis of their contributions, challenges, and the systemic barriers they face. It underscores the urgent need for a coordinated, inclusive approach to foster a more representative music industry. This report not only highlights the importance of recognising and amplifying the voices and talents of Black artists and professionals across all UK regions, but also lays down a roadmap for actionable change towards equality, diversity, and empowerment within the entire music sector. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to commit to the creation of a more equitable music industry that truly reflects the diversity and richness of Black musical heritage.”
The ReMap project was co-created by Liverpool City Region Music Board members Yaw Owusu and Jennifer Jonh and supported by the Board’s Black Music Action Group. Yaw Owusu, Creative Consultant, commented: “This report is so important because for so long our experiences have gone unheard, our contributions unacknowledged and our work and our ambitions under-supported.”
The ReMap research was initially funded through the University of Liverpool’s Early Career Research and Research Development and Innovation Funds, and was extended with contributions from the Institute of Popular Music and the Music Board’s Strategic Investment Fund
To ensure a continuation of this foundational work and further support the research and development of the Liverpool City Region’s Black music community, the Institute of Popular Music and Liverpool City Region Music Board have committed to co-funding a full three-year scholarship for PhD study in the Department of Music at the University of Liverpool. With a September 2024 start date, the studentship will advance and evolve the research and recommendations of the ReMap report. More information will be available soon.
For more information and to download the ReMap report, visit https://lcrmusicboard.co.uk/remap-report-unveiled