As part of the global #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund, YouTube is announcing its second music cohort, the #YouTubeBlack Voices Music Class of 2022, including 54 artists, songwriters, and producers from around the world. Featured in this class is the inaugural “mentor member,” legendary rapper and producer Slick Rick, who will play an additional role, sharing his wisdom and experience with fellow grant recipients within educational and networking programs for the class.
“It’s an honor to partner with YouTube via the #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund initiative to utilize my platform and art to share as an example of what endurance, the power of imagination and pure authenticity look like.” – Slick Rick
In the coming months, YouTube will work closely with the Class of 2022 to provide dedicated partner support, seed funding to help develop their channels, bespoke training, workshops and networking programs.
For details on the 54 artist recipients, please read more below..
FAQ’S
What is the #YouTube Black Voices Fund?
The #YouTube Black Voices Fund was created in 2020 to acquire and produce YouTube Originals programming focused on the Black experience, and to directly support Black creators, artists, and songwriters/producers so they can thrive on YouTube. The Fund’s budget will support this work through H1 2023.
What are #YouTubeBlack Voices Music Grants?
#YouTubeBlack Voices Fund Music Grants is a development initiative to champion Black musicians, with two tracks: BVF Artist Grants for artists, and BVF Songwriter/Producer Grants for songwriters and producers. These Music Grants programs are supported by YouTube’s multi-year #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund. Participating artists and songwriters/producers receive seed funding invested into the development of their content, dedicated partner support, and marketing promotion.
Who is eligible for #YouTubeBlack Voices Artist Grants?
Developing artists who identify as Black, in the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, Canada, Australia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. Ideal candidates will be interested in establishing a long-term channel strategy, and will be releasing music between Q4 2021 and Q2 2022.
Who is eligible for BVF Songwriter/Producer Grants?
songwriters/producers who identify as Black, in the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, Canada, Australia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. You may identify as a songwriter, producer or both to be eligible for Songwriter/Producer grants. Ideal candidates will be interested in establishing a long-term channel strategy, will be contributing to music releasing between Q4 2021-Q2 2022, and will be willing to collaborate with other songwriters & producers involved in the #YouTubeBlack Voices Music Grants program.
When is the deadline to apply?
The application window will be open starting June 21, 2021 and will close on July 9, 2021 at 11:59 PST.
What is the application process ?
Artists, and songwriters/producers can submit their information to be considered for grants here. Information provided will be kept in accordance with the Google Privacy Policy.
