Over the past decade, YouTube Music’s “Foundry Class” has become a trademark of quality for independent artists, and the 24 artists who make up this year’s class is no exception. The artists range from the U.S. and the U.K. to Poland, Korea, Brazil, Morocco, India and elsewhere, and include Julia Wolf, RaiNao, Kelela and more.
Past honorees have included Dua Lipa, Rosalia, Gunna, Tems, Arlo Parks, Japanese Breakfast, Tems, Arlo Parks and many more.
The support is more than just publicity: YouTube Music is granting money to the artists as well. “Artists receive a direct financial grant to invest in their craft, whethere that’s for cntent creation, production or independent release campaigns,” a spokesperson told Variety.
“Since 2015, YouTube Music’s Foundry program has had one clear mission: to support the diverse and innovative voices of the global independent music community,” the company said in a statement. “We’re proud to have worked with more than 250 artists, helping them build sustainable careers on their own terms. Our goal with Foundry is always to help independent artists take the next major step in their career, whether that’s helping them break on their debut album or stepping in with additional support at a pivotal career moment.”
