Hiphop Canvas
Kampala, Uganda
April-August 2010
The Hip Hop Canvas project was initiated in 2005 by the organisation PLATINIUM ENTERTAINMENT, aiming to provide a platform and direction for the Hip Hop artists in Uganda. The project transcended boundaries of cultural and language barriers, and resulted in 2 albums, 2 concerts, 2 PAM awards (Pearl of Africa Music Awards), 2 music videos and new talents like Qute Kaye, GNL, Emma Katya, Nick Nola, Lethal, Yung Nick.
Today Hip Hop is a culture that both the young and old are beginning to indentify with.
The project addresses a need among upcoming artists for training, opportunities to develop their talent, introduction to important contacts within the music sector and career guidance.
Selam sponsored the 2nd phase of Hip Hop Canvas the “Care/Of” project during 2007- now it’s time for the 3d edition!
The project Hip Hop Canvas takes its participants and partners through a “check-list-process” from audition and talent development to live performances and album release through a series of workshops and practical hands on activities.
Auditions and talent development
Hip Hop Canvas kicks off with an audition - out of over 100 applicants 30 artists are selected by a jury consisting of producers and established musicians. After eliminations, 10 artists are chosen and paired up to record a number of songs together. After this, another 2 are eliminated, then the remaining 8 are given a task to write a verse with a positive message or issues that relate to society, followed by a recording of a joint song. 5 participants are then chosen to move on within the project.
Workshops - manufacturing and distribution leading up to liveshow
Several workshops are organised, focusing on topics like music promotion and getting the music out there, jam sessions with established musicians, studio visits and rehearsals, which results in a recording of a joint song and collaborations with established artists. A CD will be produced, where the artists are actively involved in the marketing and circulation through workshops and network meetings.
There will be a videoshooting of the joint song, along with workshops on music video production, seminars on marketing, contract writing in the music industry etc, involving both artists, producers and promoters.
Workshops on preparing and rehearsing will lead up to a Grand Finale with performances of the 5 winning artists!
The project – “Hip Hop Canvas” – is a cooperation between SELAM and PLATINIUM ENTERTAINMENT.
Hiphop canvas
Kampala, Uganda