Alternative Power 100 Music List 2020

We started the Alternative Power 100 Music List as a response to Billboard’s Power 100 List with the aim to challenge conventional music industry standards. Over the past couple of years the #AltList has evolved from a symbolic stance in defiance of its original counterpart to a celebration for traditionally underrepresented communities such as women, people of color, with disabilities, people from emerging markets, LGBTQ and so on.

This year's RESILIENCE & ADAPTABILITY theme is an opportunity to celebrate those who, in facing extreme challenges brought by the 2020 pandemic(s), have not only succeeded in overcoming them but have also brought positivity to their community when they needed it the most.

#ALTLIST2020 HONOREES

Afryea Henry-Fontaine | Marketing Director | Motown Records UK / EMI Records [London]

“ Afryea is a multi talented music executive with an incredible reputation within the music industry. She rose from the ranks of Marketing Assistant, to product manager, Senior marketing manager and now Marketing Director for Motown Records UK within an 8 year span. Afryea has led Marketing campaigns on flagship acts such as Krept & Konan, Lethal Bizzle, Mostack, Migos, Lil Baby and others. In the incredibly challenging year that is 2020 she has been an invaluable executive with her additonal roles that include co-founder of 'The Debrief' (an initiative dedicated to celebrating and connecting Black women & women of colour across the music industry), The Black Music Coalition and also Co-Chair of UMG's Task Force for Meaningful Change. On top of this, she is also a super Mom to a 2 year old daughter too. Afryea's enthusiasm, energy and talent is like no other.
A dear friend, she is my rock and partner in crime in the newly launched Motown Records UK and I truly believe she deserves a firm spot in the Power 100 List.” [words by Rob Pascoe]

Aubrey Whitfield | Music Producer

“Aubrey is one of the rare high profile, successful female music producers in the UK. For the last 3 years she has inspired so many young producers, females in particular, to learn and develop and take the step into the music industry. She has achieved this by showing huge success as a producer working with big name artists (Kelly Clarkson, Little Mix, Simon Webbe, George Shelley) and labels, launching a mentorship scheme for aspiring producers, writing tonnes of free guides and resources for both musicians and producers, writing guides and articles for leading publications and giving away free studio equipment to those who need it the most. She uses her Instagram profile in particular to educate and inspire with a large loyal following who turn to her for advice and guidance on music and producing. Three years ago she had a full time working for the UK Government as a civil servant. She has managed to transition into producing full time and inspired a huge amount of other producers along the way. That's amazing in such a short space of time - it shows huge resiliance and adaptability - particularly being in a male dominated field.” [words by Rachel Petersen]

Andrea Cockerton | Founder | DIUO.io / We Are Sound / The Dosoco Foundation / musicmasks.io

”Andrea is one of the most committed, driven, and smart people I know. She combines three qualities which I have never before seen in one person: an astonishing and inspiring musical creativity (as composer, arranger, and musical director), a constant entrepreneurial mindset ("how do I meet people's needs in this moment?", and a non-negotiable commitment to creating social benefit from everything she does.

If you want to recognise exceptional artistic talent, connection to the public, invention and entrepreneurialism, a Weeble-like resilience, a devotion to humanity and a modest, humble personality who makes everything about other people and never about herself, then I'm proud to draw your attention to Andrea.” [words by Matthew Moss]

Bee Adamic | Founder/ Co-Founder | Liberty Music PR and founder of MAMI

“Bee Adamic is the co-founder of Liberty Music PR, a team dedicated to producing exciting creative campaigns for artists of all levels, utilising a synergy of Digital Marketing, Social Media, Influencers and Playlisitng. She also founded MAMI, a collective of mums in the music industry encouraging and empowering the next generation of women in the music industry. Bee is also the artist manager of synth-pop artist ADAL and recently launched Liberty Academy, an online learning experience designed to teach and train young people about all aspects of the music industry. Bee is always moving forward and evolving her business.” [words by Nikki McNeill]

Beverley Whitrick | Strategic Director | Music Venue Trust

“For incredible leadership in the face of a crisis, supporting over 900 grassroots music venues, preventing hundreds of permanent losses of those spaces, for creating and supporting the team that undertook that work, for campaigning tirelessly and relentlessly across many months, without breaks, to provide an astonishing level of support to the live music sector.” [words by Mark Davyd]

BISHI | Musician, Composer, Producer and Founder of WITCiH

As an artist, I have made music from an intersectional point of view, pushed the use of technology in my performances & have spoken up for the experiences of women of colour in the music industry.
As a founder, I have used my experiences as an artist to elevate the voices of women and non-binary genders through WITCiH, the women in technology creative industries Hub.

Black Bandcamp | Organisation

“I am nominating the entire crew behind Black Bandcamp because they have really mobilized the entire music community and fans to support Black artists in an efficient, innovative way that took advantage of the Friday sale offered by Bandcamp on a monthly basis. Bandcamp is also a company that's done the right thing during the pandemic.” [words by Andreea Magdalina]

Black Brown Berlin | Multi-platform organization

”Black Brown Berlin is a credible, reliable, and resourceful platform that connects you, artists, community organizations, event promoters, and businesses. Providing information on quality events and authentic 'safer' spaces for Black and Brown people in Berlin while empowering others to elevate black and brown excellence in the city.

During the peak of the pandemic, I've had the honor of meeting and working in the same tech community as Co-Founders, Rhea Ramjohn, Chanel Ulalee Knight & Femi Oyewole, who have raised awareness and are implementing new systems for large tech ecosystems. Their voices and contribution are so important, they are truly inspiring changemakers that deserve to be celebrated!” [words by Sandira Blas]

Brianna Agyemang and Jamila Thomas | The Show Must Be Paused

“The work these two women have done this year has been vital in transforming the music business in support of the Black community this year.” [words by Andreea Magdalina]

Ceri Dixon | Artist Manager [Dublin]

“Ceri is one of the most helpful, encouraging contacts in the industry I've ever made and has become a very close friend. Over one of the most difficult periods in the music industry's history, I've watched Ceri adapt and grow at a rate of knots, all while retaining incredible loyalty to the artist she represents, as well as her own values. Making a decision to change jobs during a pandemic in an industry on shaky ground is something that takes a lot of guts - and I've seen Ceri make that transition with such integrity. She is a force to be reckoned with and one of the most supportive people in the industry. I'm nominating her because she has not only adapted and shown resilience this year in her own career, but she has been by my side and many others as we've done the same - holding us up an cheering us on. I could speak more about her pedigree and backstory in music - but her CV speaks for itself. I'm happy to have the opportunity to tell you about the Ceri I know - my inspiration and my friend.” [words by Sheena Madden]

Clare Everson | Music Supervisor | Twenty Below Music [London]

“Clare has not only demonstrated personal and professional resilience herself throughout her short, but filled, time in the industry, but she has encouraged others to find their own resiliency too. By being willingly vulnerable writing about her path forward from redundancy, or her work to create better spaces for women of colour in the industry, Clare is consistently and fiercely encouraging in everything she does.
She was chosen to be part of Google’s RARE leadership program to learn more about how to support and hire underrepresented voices in to leadership positions in the creative industry. And furthermore she has worked hard to open up the often shuttered music industry by hosting careers panel for music students and taking on mentees.
Finally, I am confident that Clare would utilise her inclusion on this list to reflect the successes of others and to continue her great work.” [words by Beth Carter]

Cora Novoa | Artist/Label Manager

“Brave. Strong. Self-made. An example..” [words by Georgia Taglietti]

Dani Deahl | DJ/ Journalist/ VP Chicago chapter, Recording Academy

Dani Deahl used the pandemic to double down on her content offerings to support, nurture and educate the music industry and young professionals worldwide. Her weekly demo drops have attracted hundreds of young artists from all walks of life and territories to submit their work and receive constructive feedback, and her weekly live twitch streams have been both educational, fun and incredibly well created. As well as taking the time to host for Spotify and interview H.E.R as part of their educational platform, her work alongside other brands and outlets is stellar and shows where a young, female professional is using her platform to educate and inspire across multiple vertices.
We need more women like Dani Deahl in this industry.[words by Dan Carter]

DJ Paulette | DJ / Presenter / Writer

“Because she has been successfully dj'ing / presenting radio shows / writing for magazines and working as a consultant in the music industry at an international level for nearly 30 years and is a tireless advocate for diversity, inclusion, women's and LGBTQi rights.”

Donna Ross Jones | Founder and CEO | Transition Music Corporation

“Donna embodies everything that shesaid.so represents. She has dedicated her entire professional life to helping music creatives earn a living doing what they love, as well as mentoring others and breaking down barriers to access in the music industry. She understood early on as a female and minority in the biz that her best path would be the one she charted for herself, and her music publishing company Transition Music has thrived through multiple major industry shifts over the last 20+ years. Donna has consistently emphasized the importance of adaptability as a cornerstone of her success as an indie in music.” [words by Taylor Gray]

Eric Mackay | EVP, Global Digital Strategy | Warner Chappell Music [London]

Eric is an upstanding vocal advocate for minority groups and is a robust advocate for social justice. As an executive,he ensure that his team is diverse and representative of various minority groups. Eric has been ahead of the curve at Warners', empowering his team to be accountable and giving them the flexibility to choose how/where they work as well as making sure that they’ve all been able to take time off to vote and, since the BLM struggle came back to the forefront, join any protests that they wanted to and have been personally involved himself in the fight for equal rights and justice.Eric is exemplary as ab advocate.” [words by Heather Elliott-Whitehead]

Erika Elliott | Executive Artistic Director | City Parks Foundation / Summerstage Festival

“This has been one of the most difficult years of my career, and the theme of resilience and adaptability has been at the core of my life for 2020 personally and professionally. I will focus on the professional for brevity here.

In the most unpredictable and unprecedented of times, the necessity of art to transcend is more important than ever. SummerStage the festival I have curated for over 15 years was built on the idea that the arts should be accessible to all, that public spaces can be transformed through the power of art and culture, and that art can connect communities and people in ways few other things can. As we moved into the digital space I knew that to be authentic, we would need to continue to champion the same art forms, local and global communities that we present in person in the parks, and I am proud and truly grateful to say that I adapted all I knew and had done, and that I with the support and contributions of many, brought the world SummerStage Anywhere.”

Eve Louise Horne | PEAKMusicUK [London]

“Eve has released her debut single, a cover of Kate bush’s legendary song “Running Up That Hill” that reflects the tragedies of today’s world. She has continued to train people and be a positive online presence. She, built a website and composed 8 pieces of music with co-founder Malo entire over zoom for her production agency. She landed a job at Fitzrovia post as a music producer and engineer at a time when people are in uncertainty. As well as this she has been creating content for her YouTube channel which provides walkthroughs on software and hardware for Native Instruments and Ableton.” [words by Samantha Barnes]

Faiza Abdulkadir | Artist Manager

“Faiza (she/her) has been an incredible support to her artist BLUESFORTHEHORN, she has shown to stay positive, resilient and adaptable during this time. As a project manager at a local charity she has been dedicated in supporting her local community in London with assisting families with COVID-19 support – this includes financial, mental and medical support.

As a Black Muslim woman, she truly is a super woman, a woman who loves music and her community. She continues to work to tackle social inequalities and aims to ensure that she is always empowering women and men from her community whether it be through, music, engagement and activism” [words by Dee Shire]

Fiona Ross | Artist, Journalist

“Since the COVID lockdown, Fiona has been fiercely supporting people in the Jazz industry. As a journalist, she immediately created a 'Lunchtime Lockdown' interview series, talking to musicians around the world seeking advice, guidance and inspiration for others, which proved hugely successful. This include ideas to keep working for artists but also mental health awareness and support for those struggling. She has also been supporting the Black Lives Matter movement with key articles and promotion of artists. through her various platforms.Fiona has also been promoting and supporting artist all over social media, encouraging the world to support the arts. As an artist, she completed a live in lockdown visual album which has been highly acclaimed. Her journalism work also sees her with her own 'Women in Jazz' column which promotes and supports inspiring women, promoting role models across the world - this has included Ruby Turner OBE, Cyrille Aimee, Lori Williams, Camilla George and more. She is a true advocate to the Jazz industry and for women and deserves to be recognised.” [words by Catarina Andrade]

Fleetmac Wood DJs | Collective

“They throw the best dance parties every Friday night on Twitch playing remixes of Fleetwood Mac songs. They have given me life during the pandemic and I look forward to fridays eagerly. There’s a sense of community and everyone having a good time from home. I’ve done a bunch of things like this and Fleetmac Wood is heads and tails above everything else that has tried to pivot from a live event to online.” [words by Sosia Bert]

Fuzz Chaudhrey | Producer | Listen (Wise Buddah)/BBC Radio 1

“Fuzz is a true champion of great music and true artists. She has been a pioneer of diversity within the indie/alt/rock music sector, ensuring that Jack Saunders' Radio 1 shows feature music from females/LGBTQ+/POC front and centre, not just as a token box-ticking exercise. She has fully developed the show to be inclusive, exciting and a true breath of fresh air from the moment it started in 2018. This year, she has overseen producing the show remotely during lockdown, created numerous exciting, informative and original new features to replace cancelled sessions and in-person interviews that otherwise would have left a void in the show. She also pushed for and lead of the overhaul of the Indie Show as it morphed into the Future Artists shows Mon-Wed, widening their remit to showcase genres and acts far beyond the indie/rock world. Her ideas, enthusiasm and knowledge floors me on a daily basis. She helps to make careers and is not just giving a platform to those that may have struggled to find it elsewhere, but is fully kicking down the doors to mainstream success for them.” [words by Melissa Meadows]

Gemma Lacey | Journalist | Puss Puss

“Gemma is passionate about telling artists stories through their lens. She's always a champion of talent at any level and makes a conscious effort to include a diverse range of minority voices in her work. Most of her work to do this she subsidized through her marketing work so it's a true labour of love and resilience, even with the hardship fo this year she's continued to do this.” [words by Storme Whitby-Grubb]

Hannah Fiddy | Co-Founder & Director | Alternative Classical

“Hannah Fiddy is the Co-Founder and Director of Alternative Classical, the only classical music site with a majority audience of under 35. Alternative Classical really flourished during 2020, not only becoming the newest artist management agency on the classical music scene, but also publishing a series of articles on important topics such as black contemporary composers, organisations supporting black people in the arts, and mental health resources for arts workers. Hannah Fiddy also created Concert Roulette during the first lockdown, described by Culture Whisper as “the most fun since lockdown began”. Concert Roulette is a new, fun way of discovering classical music that has been played by thousands of people in over 60 countries. Alternative Classical also created a COVID-19th century music playlist, introducing people to an evolving playlist of music written during the 19th century. We could go on but this is at least a short introduction to the world of Alternative Classical! The team comprises three women, all of whom went to state school.”

Harriet Jordan-Wrench | Founder | Secret Sessions and GIRLS TO THE FRONT

“Harriet Jordan-Wrench is about the most determined person I know. She is also incredibly hard working. Harriet will not let adversity stand in her way. We began to know the extent of this when she survived a near fatal accident in her late teens. Her massive injuries led to a change of direction in her life's ambitions; she attended art college and ran a marathon. Harriet founded Secret Sessions in 2014, which began online and ended up before the pandemic as a platform for live events, to showcase emerging and unsigned artists. It was extemely popular, always having full houses, often with queues around the corner. Once the pandemic struck, undeterred, Harriet set her sights on finding new ways to connect. Noticing that girls and women were underrepresented she founded GIRLS TO THE FRONT a creative community for female identifying artists in isolation. This resulted in hundreds of artists signing up, with twice weekly Zoom meetings to combat the isolation of lockdown on a vulnerable community.” [words by Pauline Jordan]

Helena Gardiner | UK Sales Manager | Beggars

“Helena has been unstinting in her work to support independent stores in this most difficult of years. She has instigated several sales campaigns which have helped stores. She is an ardent supporter of the independent sector and is always looking for ways to promote independent labels and independent retailers.”

Federica Tombini | Senior Digital and Product Marketing Manager | AEG Presents

”Federica has not only managed to continue her marketing role to full capacity during one of the toughest years the music industry has ever had to face, but she has also taken on mentorship roles and most recently band management in order to continue advancing and expanding upon her already extensive expertise. In the face of adversity, she has flourished and is beyond deserving of recognition for her work, drive and positivity.” [words by Kendra Frost]

Jamie Coletta | Publicist, Founder | No Earbuds

“Jamie is one of the most admirable self-starters in the music industry because she’s devoted to her artists, transparent about her process, always willing to help someone who wants to learn the ropes, and is the most passionate person about music and the people she cares about that I know. I love working with her, and she’s been an inspiration to me as a tastemaker, a publicist, and even a CEO for years because she just doesn’t quit. She saw a flaw in the music industry and she had the guts to do something about it. I’m so proud to know her!” [words by Emily Herbein]

Jasmine Bodkin | Director, Label Management | The Orchard

“In just her first month at The Orchard, Jasmine was a leader in the integration efforts during Red Essential’s merge into The Orchard. As Director, Label Management at The Orchard, Jasmine works to plan and execute album releases with many of The Orchard’s largest UK labels and artists such as Cooking Vinyl (City and Colour, Counting Crows, Goldie, Lissie, John Wheeler, Nina Nesbitt, Noah Gundersen, The Dillinger Escape Plan, TLC and more), New State (Kinobe, Tough Love, Nathan Dawe, Tony De Vit, Perfecto Allstarz X Freejak), and more.

Jasmine has had a large role in the release of BABYMETAL’s third album “Metal Galaxy” and Nina Nesbitt’s second album “The Sun Will Come Up, The Seasons Will Change”, both via Cooking Vinyl. “Metal Galaxy” would garner international acclaim, nominated for the United States’ A2IM Libera Awards and first Asian Rock act to rule the Billboard Top Rock Chart. Nina’s eagerly awaited album would see success globally, with both Spotify and Apple promoting her music in New York’s Time Square. “ [words by Jarred Hopkins]

Jasmine Dotiwala | Head of Youth Engagement | Mediatrust [London]

“Throughout her career Jasmine has championed and provided opportunities to fresh young talent in music, comedy and the arts in general. From magazine columnist to running MTV base or presenting a radio show on BBC London or creating news packages for Channel 4. Her work rate is prolific and her energy and drive are unrivalled. In her role at Mediatrust in addition to the above she has unreservedly shared her knowledge, experience and contacts with so many newcomers to the music and TV industries from all backgrounds. The invaluable training Jasmine has given numerous newcomers to a sometime seemingly impenetrable industry has undoubtedly helped them gain access to otherwise elusive jobs and experiences in highly competitive fields.” [words by Paul Hampartsoumian]

Jasmine infiniti | Producer / DJ / Label Manager

“Jasmine lnfiniti is a New York / Bay aera iconic producer and dj and , co founder of New World Dysorder, an international label and community for QTBIPOC . She managed to released a new acclaimed Ep “ BXTCH SLAP” in march in the midst of the pandemic but also officially launched her label with a debut compilation gathering 20 different artists from around the world” [words by Laura Clock]

Jasmine Kok | Founder/CEO | She Knows Tech

“Jasmine Kok has been a source of inspiration to me since the day we met. In a male-dominated industry where women are often faced with a large barrier to entry, Jasmine has made it her mission to inspire, empower and connect with womxn (both aspiring and established) in Music Technology, Production, Audio Engineering and beyond through founding and running She Knows Tech. She Knows Tech is an organisation dedicated to closing the gender gap in the Music Technology industry. SKT strives to create a community built around education, empowerment, networking and continued learning for female-identifying technologists of all levels.

When Covid-19 took hold of our lives, Jasmine worked with our team to create innovative solutions to these challenging problems. When faced with social restrictions, She Knows Tech expanded to a Global Network that would not have been possible without the migration to Zoom masterclasses and speed production sessions. Through She Knows Tech, Jasmine has hosted a plethora of masterclasses with top female music industry professionals, hosted a phenomenally successful speed mentoring session, and hosted She Knows Tech's biggest Speed Production competition yet, in collaboration with Genelec, Output, Vochlea, Klevgrand and more!” [words by Lisa Murray]

Jayne Stynes | General Manager | MMF [London]

“Jayne is an incredible GM who motivates the entire MMF team, she is passionate about transparency, equality and a better music industry. The MMF is a very small team who constantly punches above their weight and Jayne is the glue that ensures that everyone involved in the MMF, wether it's members, associates, partners, guests and team members feel welcomed and appreciated. Speaking as a team member in her team, Jayne's ability to make team members feel empowered and appreciated is amazing. Jayne is amazing! She's also incredibly smart. An inspiration.” [words by Lovisa Attebrant]

Jen Lyon | Independent Promoter | MeanRed/ Brooklyn Electronic Music Festival

“The theme of resilience and adaptability are at the center of EVERYTHING she does as an independent promoter. She is always forward thinking and nimble, as that's what owning her own business requires. She is one of the the few people who forged ahead and presented live music in Detroit this summer, in a series of intimate and safe shows featuring legendary artists including Kevin Saunderson, Juan Atkins and more. Her willingness to TRY even during covid, is a testament to her resilience and adaptability, and to do that in the face of so much unknown and an ever changing landscape is commendable.

What is remarkable is her willingness to be generous with her time, and ideas in support of the entire ecosystem of live music to help try and ensure their survival. Her fearless and creative thinking has helped the group continue to move forward and gain momentum, and try to find solutions collectively.” [words by Erika Elliott]

Jess Kangalee | Director | Good Energy PR

“I launched my business a couple of months before Covid 19 restrictions hit. Despite lockdown and the immense effects it has had industry wide I have managed to build a thriving business without compromising my ideals of having a majority roster promoting female identifying/queer/poc artists, its something you do not see from any other plugger. Though lockdown brought its challenges, as I was finally running my own company and had less time constraints I was able to dig into some really important diversity work across the independent sector of music working with labels, distributors, managers, artists, PR's, pluggers, live promoters & agents and more to consult on diversity. Ive assisted AIM, formed the Black Music Coalition Independent arm, contributed to the Seat At The Table report and to diversity articles for Music Week & Vice. I have done all this whilst managing longstanding severe depression and anxiety as well as a serious chronic illness, which has meant that I have been in my own personal lockdown for 9 months.”

Jordan Danielle Frazes | Publicity | Frazes Creative

“After over a decade of running PR at Atlantic's Big Beat (with artists like Charlie XCX & David Guetta), Jordan has made an incredible leap by starting her own, women-led PR consultancy. Being an entrepreneur during 2020 is an incredibly difficult feat, and not only has Jordan successfully grown her business, but she's done so in a diverse, intentional, resilient, and adaptable way.

Throughout the pandemic, Jordan has helped artists adapt, and innovated to find new ways to promote her clients in meaningful (and safe!) ways. Two of her roster artists, Nicki Nicole and Nathy Peluso, also secured Latin Grammy nominations including “Best New Artist” for both and “Best Alternative Song” for the latter. Her other client Aminé’s album landed in the Billboard Top 20, his highest chart debut, and she coordinated a trailblazing late-night television performance from 2,000 feet above ground in a hot air balloon on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Jordan is a connector, a supporter, and someone I truly believe belongs on this list. I hope after reviewing this nomination you agree!” [words by Sophie Everhard]

Julia Killer | Head of Label Partnerships, EMEA | Facebook

“Julia is an incredible leader both internally and externally for Facebook across EMEA. She leads relationships with all of the record labels in EMEA markets with her teams. Julia has shown such resilience this year in her time and commitment that she gives in her role. Always going above and beyond for partners. She manages many moving parts across the business and still has time for all members of her teams and collaborators at Facebook to mentor, give direction and guide. Julia creates such a positive culture. She is hugely empathetic and always thinking about the bigger picture.

She has shown such resilience and strength this year and leading an incredible team team an creating the vision and direction to pivot and scale to provide education for the global music industry. Since we launched our FB <3 Music education series in H1 2019, Julia and her team have educated over 6,000 music industry professionals from all over the world across labels, distributors, publishers, management companies and more. These events help educate our partners and the music industry on topics such as our music products and how best to use them to maximise their marketing campaigns, how to build their own AR filters to use in our music products, the Live and Social Good tools we provide (especially important during Covid times!), as well as new feature launches such as Reels and e-Commerce opportunities such as IG Shopping.
Huge impact! So proud to have Julia be a colleague and friend. An inspiration always.” [words by Vanessa Bakewell]

Kathleen Alder | Founding Director

“Kathleen Alder has, for years, displayed admirable resilience: Upon founding WildKat - a creative PR agency for music and the arts - Kathleen encountered age and gender discrimination. She was just 24, and the male-dominated, traditional classical music industry did not welcome Kathleen and her determination to re-energise the industry by adapting and evolving it alongside changes in modernity and technology. Kathleen was never discouraged by those that displayed scepticism towards her efforts, and WildKat is now the most fluid PR agency of its kind, providing a myriad of services for those within the cultural sector, with clients including RADA, the City of Nice, Bamberg Symphony and VOCES8. Last year, the company even received a 7-figure investment to take its offerings global. The pandemic hit WildKat at a crucial juncture - in a time where offices had only just opened in New York and Paris - yet Kathleen has responded to the immense challenge this posed in a way that showcases her innate resilience, and her inspirational aptitude for adaptability.” [words by Anna Read]

Katrina Lopes | KL Management

“Katrina was selected by Reeperbahn Festival as a Keychange participant in December 2019 as an innovative and forward-thinking manager, consultant and festival board-member. She immediately approached the network in a proactive way and has collabortated with at least 5 participants from different countries in Europe, including booking artists to perform in a livestream series. She creates projects that are entirely staffed by Black women and she is constantly pushing for better representation and understanding - in all meetings. Following the Black lives matter resurgence, she has been working closely with Keychange to advise on our communication and support of our Black participants, leading a focus group and extra monitoring questions. She genuinely cares about supportive environments and creative collaboration and has worked hard to make that happen internationally in a tough year, both within the Keychange network and in her own work. She calls discrimination out in a way that is both powerful and inclusive, and also safe! She is a role model for independent and dignified leadership, with a focus on meaningful support and B2B connections.” [words by Maxie Gedge]

Kay Wrate | Head of A&R | Warp Publishing

“In a challenging year for artists and musicians, Kay went above and beyond to keep artists and their teams positive and helped everyone find out how to make the most of the circumstances and turn them into creative opportunities.

Kay has also continued to offer support and advice as a mentor within the Future Bubblers initiative by Giles Peterson and Brownswood Music, and continued as a publisher member of the PRS For Music Operational group. She is also keeping a keen interest in working with a number of organisations (e.g Livity) on diversity and social issues within the industry, and has played an active role not only within Warp Publishing but also within the wider Warp group of companies to look at establishing close and lasting partnerships.” [words by Theo Seffusatti]

Kelly Duroncelet | Digital Marketing Director | Geffen Records

“Kelly is an outstanding colleague, and an amazing example of "how to be" in the music industry. Kelly was furloughed by Paradigm in March 2020, which was viewed as a shock and wildly foolish by most. Included on Billboard's Digital Power Players more than once, the pandemic may have delayed her continued rise, but she landed at Geffen Records, who is very blessed to have her.

Even while searching for a new job, she has posted on social media offering contacts, advice, and help to others who also became unemployed. On a personal note, I visited the Paradigm Beverly Hills office in January, and I was very nervous to be meeting a lot of people in person for the first time. I had been in touch with Kelly prior to my trip, to make sure I would get to see her. She came to say hello as soon as she got in, and had even brought me a pastry from her favorite coffee shop. I wish we were still able to work together, but I'm happy to be able to call her a friend.” [words by Angela Moore]

Kimani Moore | Founder / CEO | Kimani Moore Entertainment

“Kimani is the visionary behind Kimani Moore Entertainment (KME), a newly formed talent management firm and platform dedicated to empowering the next generation of African talent across the music, fashion and culture spectrum. It is 100% African owned and operated with locations in the UK, US and Nigeria. KME’s first signings include a trio of premier Nigerian-born talent: Lagos-born R&B singer Odunsi (recently signed to a global deal with Sony/RCA), British-based fashion designer Mowalola (newly named the creative director of Kanye West’s upcoming Yeezy Gap collection), Deto Black, Tay Iwar and singer/songwriter/producer Larry Gaaga (who inked a publishing deal with Peermusic UK in July).” [words by Temi Adeniji]

Latashá | Artist, Producer

“I am nominating Latasha because she is the utmost example of resilience. She developed herself as an artist in Brooklyn before uprooting herself and moving to LA. She was able to score a publishing deal and wrote some amazing, empowering songs that really infused a sense of pride in her community. She then developed a platform called Lytewrk.club that focuses on spiritual and creative development with a focus of black women creatives. She uplifts black women in a variety of spiritual and wellness practices and brings them together with creatives to offer insights and help them develop. Latashá is also super active on Clubhouse where she recently hosted a room called “Let Black Women Artists Do What They Want.”

I am nominating Latashá because she is a bright light that shines not only on her community, but on all those around her. She is hardworking, innovative, and just a good human with incredible talent. She’s a ridiculously great songwriter, rapper, and artists and I’m so excited to share her with you. Latashá has worked her ass off this year, not just for herself, but also for others, even in the midst of a really intense (to say the least) year for society at large, but especially the Black community. She really deserves it.” [words by Blaire Michael]

Lily Moayeri | Music Journalist /TV critic

“Lily has been a pioneer in music journalism and particularly championing new genres and black music and electronic as well as generous mentor to young people entering the music business” [words by Sally Gross]

Lindi Delight | Founder / CEO | De Light Management / Masks for Music

“Lindi is one of the most innovative and charismatic entrepreneurs I have met. She was elected to our (Association For Electronic Music) Executive Board to represent the Live Sector (along with a rep from Defected Records) because of her proven track record, abilities, and knowledge in the live side of the music industry. Her innovative nature was epitomised by her pivoting her company during the pandemic to launch Masks for Music, an initiative that benefits not just the live side but the whole industry. I nominate Lindi unreservedly.” [words by Tristan Hunt]

Lu Ghebremariam | Senior Campaign Strategist & Activist | Change.org

“Lewamm “Lu” Ghebremariam is a Senior Campaign Strategist for the petition platform Change.org in Germany. Since 2018, she has been supporting and advising activists with her marketing and strategy expertise making national and international headlines. She has accompanied numerous campaigns and initiatives - with a particular focus on elevating “marginalized” voices or helping “niche” issues become mainstream, including #RKellyStummschalten (#MuteRkelly Germany), #TrueDiskriminierung or the recently passed law against Upskirting.

As a black German she is confronted with racism on the daily and during the day uses her platforms for the greater good to storytell and create awarenness. She's an inspiration working behind the scenes, transforming systems, changing perspectives, empowering communities and the youth culture that absorbs information to reflect and positively act upon. On top of that she mentors over a dozen artists (from 7 different cities around the world). One persons efforts really does matter!” [words by Sandira Blas]

Maja Starcevic | Head of International Booking | EXIT Festival

“Maja is an amazing coworker who even in these unprecedented times found time to care about coworkers, associates, artists and to leave everyone with a smile. Although the festivals didn’t take place this year she gave all the efforts to make Life Stream that EXIT festival presented and to bring artists to play socially distanced show for a very limited amount of live audience and to be broadcasted over several millions online in partnership with UN’s World Food Programme, who recently got awarded with Nobel Price.” [words by Sanja Njegovan]

Marie Clausen | Head of Ninja Tune North America & Head of Global Streaming | Ninja Tune

“She just knows how to move in a pandemic world thanks to her strategies behind streams. She lives the future and the present in constant relation. She's just the best!”[words by Silvia Nocentini]

Maxie Gedge | Project Manager | PRS Foundation / Keychange

“Maxie and the whole Keychange team has made tremendous efforts in keeping the programme going during these complicated times. Keychange capacity building programme has not only provided continuous learning and development programme since early spring but has been a great community support network and been also checking in on the participants regularly. Great work and wonderful people!” [words by Martiina Putnik]

Maya Jane Coles | Artist/DJ

“Maya Jane Coles is an incredible award-winning artist who writes, produces, mixes, performs all her own music as well as doing the artwork and releasing with much success on her own label I/AM/ME using BMG label services. Maya's just completed her huge third album that is going to hit, has been producing and remixing big international artists. As a queer British-east Asian female - she is shattering glass ceilings for British women, queer women, Japanese women and queer woman all at the same time and providing a role model where she didn't have them herself.” [words by Steven Braines]

Meenal Odedra | Founder | The Music Assistant

“Meenal continues to amaze me with her resilience, determination and commitment to seeing projects through, making change and bringing people together. Her authenticity means she stays true to herself even when others present a challenge. She has made so much happen for shesaid.so this year through all the hurdles and has been determined to provide a platform for diverse voices.” [words by Clare Everson]

Melissa Meadows | Head Of TV & Content | Caroline International

“2020 has been a hugely challenging year for us all, but particularly in Mel's sector. With TV Promo opportunities reduced hugely over the years already, the impact of COVID made it near impossible to promote artists through the medium. Mel has worked incredibly hard to create new opportunities and expand her role to help give artists opportunities to promote their music during this period. Thinking creatively and with a huge drive, she's completely diversified her own role in order to help the artists. She now over sees podcast creation and visual content direction. She was also the driving force behind an amazing virtual showcase that she put together from scratch off her own back, which again, gave our artists a huge platform they were otherwise missing out on due to the lack of gigs. Many would have sat back and conceded the current situation we're in, but through resilience and adaptability, Mel has driven the label forward and given the artists a platform destroyed by COVID.
She's a hero.” [words by Richard Ashton]

Mira Silvers | Head of Artist Development & Marketing | FORT Entertainment

“Mira Silvers is an absolute powerhouse and one of the most inspiring leaders I have come across in the music industry. Her work is rooted in carving new paths in the music industry, not just for herself, but for artists and other music industry professionals, especially those from the BIPOC communities. She is a sheer force and not at all subverted by adversity. Her dedication to bringing ethical business practices and transparency in the industry is incredibly important. This is why MMF (Music Manager Forum) elected her as a Director on the Board of Directors in October 2020.

Mira is passionately driven by innovation and is keen to bring new and diverse perspectives to the table. One of her many missions is to use the skills she has developed to develop a new generation of artist managers. Mira absolutely believes in investing in innovative platforms and opportunities; she is open to collaborating with partners to help champion BIPOC artists and music professionals (both emerging + established) and unleash that potential.” [words by Ruby Black]

Morenike Ariyibi | Senior Global Commercial Partnerships Manager | AWAL

“Morenike is an inspiring colleague and deserves to be recognised for her work. She covers a multitude of DSPs for AWAL spanning 3 continents (Europe, Asia and Africa) and manages to achieve results consistently, despite facing the adversity of a very heavy workload. She's pioneered a D&I opportunity for AWAL artists, sits on the A&R Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committe and hosted an impressive panel featuring Paulette Long OBE, Mykaell Riley and Eve Fairley-Chickwe. She shows strength and leadership every day in her work and I'm proud to be working alongside her.” [words by Hannah Beeching]

Morin Yousif | Media & Communications | Paxahau

“Morin plays an integral role in Paxahau and Movement Detroit. In 2020, with the cancellation of festivals and live events, Paxahau has done an incredible job of pivoting over to the digital sphere while still supporting underrepresented communities that have been essential for electronic music, which Movement and Paxahau have done from the beginning. Morin works on programming to feature Black, womxn, and POC artists on their well-received Twitch partner channel and programs thoughtful “Paxachats”, the industry-facing panel style conversations. In addition, she also serves as the main and sole external-facing contact for all things related to media and communications around Paxahau, and does so with authentic humility and grace. She’s a champ!” [words by Valerie Lee]

Jaguar | DJ/ Artist

“I have felt immense personal and professional growth this year. I have shown resilience in times of hardship - by overstepping initial horror and creating change; and adapted how I go about my daily tasks in my career. With Covid shutting down our clubs, I’ve focussed more on building this community of artists and creatives via my Radio 1 shows and WhatsApp group. I hosted my first virtual conference in October, UTOPIA Talks, where I invited industry experts such as Dipesh Parmar (CEO of Ministry of Sound), Meike Nolte from Beatport, and Hannah Shogbola (agent at Echo Location) to share their knowledge with new artists. The attendees said they found this really interesting and useful, and I got so much pleasure out of being able to help people out, in a year where we are not able to host gigs and physically be together. Helping artists progress in other ways, virually, has been one of my highlights of this year, and we will certainly do more UTOPIA Talks conferences in 2021.

This year I have been able to rise from the ashes of horrific events, and find my purpose. I feel like what I’m doing is more important than ever, and I want to bring my celebration of diversity, community and representation to the next stages of my career and beyond.”

Indy Vidyalankara | PR and Comms Consultant | Indypendent PR

“Indy is an accomplished Communications executive with a diverse career spanning over two decades across music, media and third sector in high profile organisations such as Sony Music UK, Saatchi & Saatchi, with 11 years at the BBC in publicity across BBC Radio 1, Radio 1Xtra and BBC TV working on some of the country’s most popular TV entertainment formats.

Indy is actively contributing to change in Diversity and Eqaulity in the music industry, in her role on two very high profile diversity boards. She is a member of the BPI Equality and Justice Advisory Group, she is a member of the UK Music Diversity Taskforce, a trustee of Parents In Performing Arts, a trustee of media charity One World Media and on the BRITS voting academy. She is a passionate advocate for diversity, social responsibility and engaging audiences through purpose-driven and cause related, compelling storytelling and content.”

Namywa | Artist Development | Girl Grind UK

“A leading figure in the black musical community of Birmingham as well as being an outstanding artist, Namywa is a voice for many.” [words by Carlo Solazzo]

Nao | Artist

“Nao is a multi-Grammy, Mercury, BRIT and Mobo nominated singer songwriter from London. Through this challenging and exceptional year, Nao has been an advocate for change and a beacon of hope for the future of the music industry. As Nao was navigating the covid-19 lockdown, she was also deep in Black Lives Matter and she realised that black people and people of colour were going through not just one but two pandemics - and for black women there was a third one. In a time when it would have been easy to withdraw, Nao not only released an empowerment song for women of colour but she also formulated and launched the 3T Course.

The 3T (Tour Tech Training) Programme provides black women with the opportunity, knowledge and skills to join the live industry, so that when live music returns it comes back better than before. In October, the first cohort of women graduated from the course.Nao's commitment to bridge the gap for women in spaces where they have not been visible is inspiring to see. She has used her position to empower others and her desire to provide opportunity creates hope for a brighter future, for so many women who want to work in the business.” [words by Jamila Nabukeera]

Natalie Wade | Founder and Director | Small Green Shoots

“I would like to nominate Natalie as she has shown her strong resilience and adaptability throughout this year especially in regards to the covid crises. As a member of her team at Small Green Shoots I have witnessed first hand her determination and her will to ensure that no one from our team were let go and she bucked the trend in such difficult circumstances and recruited more young people to support them when others would not. Natalie puts her teams needs before her own and she ALWAYS adapts under pressure and comes up with solutions. I know no one better to nominate. Her strive and resilience inspires us all as an organisation to be as determined as she is to overcome and succeed” [words by Makeda McMillan]

Natasha Ryan | Music Settlement Coordinator | Paradigm Talent Agency

“Natasha reached out to former BIPOC co-workers to provide a safe space for their stories and then relayed their concerns to our C Suite executives as well as HR in order to start hard conversations about inclusion and diversity within our organization.
Natasha is the co-founder of the Inclusive Music Coalition here in Chicago and uses social media to amplify voices, educate and provide resources.
Natasha's drive and passion to raise awareness, shine light during dark times and act as a beacon of hope is admirable.

Natasha has personally inspired me to be a better version of myself, to be more aware of my unconscious bias and to push to become the best ally/advocate that I can be.” [words by Jennifer Leibhart]

Nicole McKenzie | A&R | Mic Records/ Atlas Music Agency

“Nicole has been working in independent music for over 20 years - specifically with artists, emerging record labels and charities for young people. As a black woman who identifies as queer, I am in awe of her resilience!” [words by Christine Pont]

Nicole St.Jean | Head of Content | Wave XR

“Nicole has been an active and positive force in music and tech for years and has been an advocate for musicians and artist teams in her role at Wave XR, which has become an essential business in the wake of covid-19. When shows disappeared, the world turned to virtual opportunities. At Wave, Nicole balances the difficult task of teaching all swaths of artists about how the technology works while strategically building an A&R plan for the company during a pivotal time. There is no company that is a better fit for this year’s theme than Wave, and Nicole is the unsung hero of the company. She is one of those leaders that does the job of 10 people in not one, but two male dominated industries, and she does it with a smile the entire time. She’s also a champion mom of two young boys.” [words by Valerie Lee]

Nina Kehagia | Radio producer & Music Curator

“Nina is a humble professional that's been an active figure in London's scene for years. Nina has discreetly supported the LGBTQ community - always ensuring a balance of speakers in her talks and music events - and via their long time on the airwaves, they supported numerous emerging artists. Since the lockdown, Nina has dedicated most of their free time offering their services for free to musicians and music industry professionals - mentoring and coaching them effortlessly on a weekly basis. They also created a comforting online community, sharing stories of music and culture in a delightful way.” [words by Mark Forshaw]

Nina Las Vegas | Radio Host, DJ and Music Producer | NLV Records

”Nina is a touring DJ & Artist Manager and had just moved to the UK to extend her personal/professional life for her and her artists (through NLV Records) and so 2020 - like many of us - has hit extremely close to home.. she's returned BACK to her hometown of Wagga Wagga in the 'outback' of Australia and I saw the amazing pictures of her DJ set on the beautiful countryside raising funds for Heaps Decent. She's worked with & inspires so many great people around the world and just keeps coming up with innovative ways to promote Australian music constantly from a female perspective and FOR women. She lifts everyone up and often works around the clock and timezones!” [words by Amelia Chappelow]

NO SHADE | Collective

”No Shade is a collective and creative company consisting of 12 multidisciplinary artists, technicians, and producers from all over the world, based in Berlin. Originally founded as a training program for female, trans- and non-binary DJs, growing out of a need to address the lack of diversity at the time existing in Berlin’s clubbing and music scene, the collective has in the years since its founding expanded into working with sound, lights, visuals, 3D-scanning, merch and event production in addition to the original DJ training program. During the pandemic turmoil, they continue to do so with No Shade TV.

As a responsibility of those who provide opportunities, use their platforms for awareness, book artists, educate or provide jobs, each of the members in No Shade has been doing admirable work injecting much-needed diversity for the underrepresented & marginalized communities.” [words by Sandira Blas]

Paul Pacifico | Chief Executive | AIM (Association of Independent Music)

”As an industry body, AIM’s response to COVID-19 this year has been head and shoulders above the rest. Led by Paul Pacifico, the organisation has been pivotal in providing support to its thousands of members and, more recently, expanding its membership to independent distributors so that they too can benefit from the services, support and advice offered by AIM.

Since the start of lockdown, Paul has been a beacon of light for the independent sector, championing their needs and never giving up in the face of challenges. His vision has created opportunities and much-needed resources for his membership and his ability to be creative, think on his feet and to see things through to delivery have been welcome in this time of adversity for many. He is so deserving of recognition for his efforts and his inclusive approach to delivering for all his members.” [words by Lynne Best]

Phoebe Bridgers | Artist / CEO | Saddest Factory

“While most people recognize Phoebe for her unparalleled music and songwriting, one of the things that continues to inspire me about her is her drive. Her drive not just in her own career, but her drive to contribute something bigger. Phoebe recently partnered with Dead Oceans (her label) to create her own imprint, and sign artists she believes in. The first signing to Saddest Factory is Claud, a non-binary pop songwriter, an artist who needs a bigger platform, and Phoebe is there to support it. This is the first of many signings that Phoebe is working on, and what she's striving towards. lifting up great songwriting from (mostly) under-represented communities is awe inspiring. Beyond what Phoebe is building in Saddest Factory, we have watched her use her platform for important causes time and time again this year.

She's been endlessly creative in creating a virtual world around her album, through numerous inventive live performances, giving her audience something to get them through until we can all be in a club together. Phoebe is a brilliant artist, but more than that, she's a leader and someone who is working tirelessly at everything she believes in.” [words by Phil Waldorf]

Portia Clarke | Project Manager

“Portia is a strategic and extremely talented music professional with experience spanning various territories and genres in the music industry. She has not only directed campaigns at the global level (active roster includes Spotify, Red Bull and Island Records), but she has also been instrumental when working under pressure. She was also part of the team delivering a 7 figure campaign with me at TikTok for Black History Month, and has served as an inspiration to many women coming up in the music / media industries through her work with Women in CTRL. I can't think of anyone more deserving!” [words by Chris Crichlow]

Rebecca Grierson | Managing Director / Executive Music Producer | SixtyFour Music

“Rebecca has worked tirelessly with Free The Work to promote under-represented talent. After providing them with their current composer database, this year she has focussed on selected composers to nurture their careers by offering them opportunities they've not had access to before.

She's not only an amazing colleague to work with, she's genuinely passionate about creating a more diverse and fair environment within the film, advertising and TV sectors.” [words by Anne Booty]

Ruth and Beth Drake | Toast Press

“Toast Press is turning 15 years old this year, and in the absence of an opportunity to celebrate that IRL, I would like to nominate Ruth and Beth; for still leading the charge in music publicity, for growing an independent business in good times and in bad, and as sisters and as women, for putting up with what is now generations of male industry nonsense.”

Sally Anne Gross | Author, Course Leader | University of Westminster

“One of the true unsung heroes of the music industry - first female director of A&R in a major label, artist management, MBA Course head, Co-Author of 'Can Music Make You Sick' published 2020. A total powerhouse who more than deserves some shesaidso sugar.” [words by Paulette Constable]



Samantha Rise | Musician, Program Director | Girls Rock Philly

“Samantha has been a huge advocate for the Philadelphia arts community this year. We had a big fight for our arts budget and they were spearheading a lot of efforts for this along with Black rights in the city. Getting arrested for it and still continuing to fight. Samantha is also an amazing artist with such a positive energy. They are able to bring a balance to what is going on and focus on the things that are truly important for our community right now. Frankly, Samantha is a bad ass and has helped inspire me to fight more for the arts and our future in this city.” [words by Carolyn Lederach]

Sanaz Lavaedian | VP of Music | Mocean

“Sanaz has been a loud voice in the push for a more inclusive and diverse music industry. She's organized people to make our industry less white + male. She's a bold activist and takes no shit.” [words by Morgan Thoryk]


Sara Colantonio | Founder & shesaid.so Italy Community Manager | Bassa Fedeltà

“Sara has had an incredibly difficult year, as many of us in the music industry. But pandemic aside, she has faced many challenges and has done so on her own.

Nevertheless she has given so much energy and love within the shesaid.so Italy community. It was her idea to start creating online content, she searched the platforms, she contacted womxn for workshops, masterclasses and discussions. She is constanly available for all our members and all the while she is one of the managers of the YouTube mentoring program. She has proven that community can truly overcome hardship and, let's say it, loneliness. Given these times, I'd say her presence has been priceless.” [words by Irene Tiberi]

Sarah Harrison | DJ & Content Creator

“I have been so impressed by the consistent output of Sarah Harrison as a content creator, particularly looking at what she's been able to produce this year from her own home. The lockdown didn't stop her! If anything, it seems like it fuelled her work ethic even more. I particularly loved the series of weekly Zoom panels she put together, called ONSITE MIXR, focussed on the DJ's (essential) role in the Music Business, where different guest DJs and Artists came through to play new music and keep the conversation alive amongst a community that got hit so hard with the closure of venues, thus creating a space for the DJ to stay alive! Very necessary. She is overdue recognition.” [words by Bella James]


Sarah Shields | Lead, International Music Markets Strategy | Spotify

“As a key member of the Spotify Music Team, Sarah is instrumental in building the strategy key internal markets including Europe, The Middle East and Africa.

This year, Sarah lead Spotify's efforts around the Pride campaign in June. Spotify has the unique ability to inspire and drive positive change through the power of audio. During Pride month, we knew that feelings of togetherness and shared experiences have never been more important, which is why we unveiled Unlike Any Other—Spotify’s 2020 global Pride campaign celebrating LGBTQIA+ creators and connecting them to fans around the world.
Sarah's dedication and passion for the work is a testament to her character as an individual.” [words by Tamika Young]

Selina Hannaford | Artist Manager and Founder | Luna Legacy

“In 2019, Selina left her full time job to put all her commitment, time and energy into the things she was most passionate about: the creative arts and the development of talent. She founded Luna Legacy, took on four artists to manage full time and ran the bi-weekly Say No More open mic event in Shoreditch. I met Selina early 2020 when interviewing her for my Podcast and even then was inspired by her resilience. She's someone who is so passionate and believing in her dreams and the potential of her talent that she will work every hour under the sun to try and shift the landscape and create spaces for talent to thrive.

If I could use two words to describe her they would be passionate and resilient. The resilience I'd say, is driven almost by necessity asked from the intense will she has to take Luna Legacy and its artists as far as they could possibly go. She's an amazing woman and gives a lot to the industry.” [words by Alexandra Hearth]

Silvia Nocentini | Artist Manager | NoOx Management

“She's bringing afro music in Italy and creating a black representation in the Italian industry. She has economical and social goals other than just artistic. Exploring new markets and bridging, something that is not so usual for the Italian scene.” [words by Mario Carmagnini]



Sulekha Daar | Label Manager

“Sulekha has this year - besides running and starting her own label - pulled together an incredible artist project to help support the Black Lives Matter movement. She has together with BLM Sthlm, producers Castro & CB and prominent Swedish artists Jireel, Gee Dixon, Deniz, Wintina, Chelsea Muco, Jamkid,Seedy, Oliviah & Rez project lead the creation and release of the single ‘Tillsammans’ (Together in Swedish) with the proceeds all going directly to the American branch of Black Lives Matter. The artists all included their own personal experiences on the track and on the day every big media outlet in Sweden covered the single as well as prominent support from Spotify. An incredible idea and achievement to pull together for an incredibly important cause.” [words by Nikoo Sadr]



Tom Brady | Co-founder | Gigrealm

“For the work he has done in building and launching the GigRealm platform. Over the course of the pandemic, he has worked endlessly to ensure the company stays active, but has also gone above and beyond to strengthen its core offering in light of the pandemic. This has included bringing in new features that will make it easier for artists to find work and ensures they are paid fairly. Watching him battle through launching a music-industry-based start-up during a UK lockdown has been really inspiring.

At the moment he is strengthening an automated contract to ensure both the artist and party who books them are protected. This is long overdue in the grassroots part of the music industry and will help to improve how gigs are organised. I think this will have a huge impact on the grassroots industry. It would be great if Tom was acknowledged for his commitment to building a more inclusive space for artists and providing them with access to paid work. His work is without pause, and he's always thinking of new ways to help people find new avenues for their music.” [words by Lauren Squire]

Usher Lavelle | Festival Booking Assistant | WME

“Musician, DJ, producer and mentor Usher Lavelle (Mullins) has awed me with his willingness to step up and persevere, both on his own behalf and in aid of others, during this tumultuous year. Firstly, as COVID-19 increased in strength and threat, he reached out to Live for Love UK and created a group of artists to livestream a set raising money for UK food banks - raising hundreds of pounds for this vital cause. His resilience is truly inspiring: for over three years he has continuously been broadcasting on London's Reprezent Radio, putting an extraordinary amount of time each fortnight into selecting, interviewing and promoting upcoming artists as well as teaching himself the software to produce iconic accompanying promotional graphics and videos.

Moreover, within his role at WME, he champions diverse artists in his network to his colleagues, helping them get recognition from the industry. Everything he does is dedicated to collaboration. Regardless of who notices, he consistently uses his musical talent to put others’ development and creative growth first and the example he tirelessly sets pushes me and many others to do the same.” [words by Imogen Malpas]

Victoria Marfan | General Manager | Live Nation - Femme It Forward

“Outside of Danaka being one of the most hardworking women in music, I've watched her grow into this boss over the years. Taking a chance, leaving her position at BMI and going to a whole new area of music - touring. I was even more proud of her deciding to challenge herself yet again, taking this new position at Live Nation as the General Manager of Femme It Forward, a female-led music and entertainment platform that centers its mission in celebrating, educating, and empowering the industry’s most creative and accomplished female visionaries through multi-format, multi-market consumer experiences. 2020 has been so hard for the touring sector and watching her and her team continue to pivot and find ways to support women in music despite the climate we're in, has been nothing short of inspirational. She deserves all her flowers. She's uplifted so many people & women, including me in this business and she deserves to be celebrated this time.” [words by Anastasia Wright]

Victoria Petrovsky | General Manager | Three Six Zero

“I'm nominating Victoria Petrovsky as this year I have felt incredibly inspired by how she has activated, engaged and pushed for change as part of a truly meaningful and long-term approach to social justice. In the wake of COVID-19 and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, Victoria committed to engaging with these issues in both her personal life and in her role as General Manager at Three Six Zero. Victoria led on supporting #TheShowMustBePaused initiative, that encouraged all staff to take this time to reflect and have productive conversation about what actions can be taken to collectively support the black community. She pooled together an exhaustive list of resources and educational tools, as well as a direct list of actions that individuals could take to demand legislative and policy change. social justice and racial equality.

Victoria continues to nurture and maintain discussion within TSZ on social justice and has strategised an ongoing social impact plan that will be integrated into all the work that TSZ does. For this, I truly feel she deserves to be recognised on shesaid.so's Alt List 2020.” [words by Rohani Coombes]

Whitney Wei | Editor-In-Chief | Electronic Beats

“Whitney Wei joined the Electronic Beats editorial team nearly a year ago with the intention of highlighting talented, BIPOC artists that have long been ignored and cast aside. In the electronic music industry, especially in the wake of social unrest, it is more important than ever to have representation of such artists who have been pushing the bounds of electronic music and what the medium can be. It's Whitney's astonishing ability of storytelling, backed with an admirable virtue of bringing communities along with her. This is not a mere trend for Whitney to use her platform to raise talented and international artists, but a longstanding commendable trait of dignity and morality that ought to be prevalent in the music industry.” [words by Jocelyn Yan]


Wiyaala | Musician/Songwriter

“Wiyaala is an artiste who has chosen to move back to Funsi, a remote village community in the Upper West Region of Ghana where she grew up. Wiyaala is using her energy and talents to encourage the young, especially the girls. Her achievments include building an arts centre, forming a cultural troup for the young who perform for visitors, building guest accommodation for those vistors, holding festivals and talent shows . Wiyaala campaigns against Child Marriage (via Unicef Ghana) and is also working with Wateraid Ghana on a Covid19 prevention programme. During 2020 Wiyaala has also broadcast informal live shows form her house in Funsi which have attracted viewers world wide. In 2020 won a "Woman of The Decade" award at The Women's Choice Awards Africa.” [words by John Sherren]

Wooly and the Uke | Artist

“Wooly and the Uke, Janat Sohail Aziz, is someone who pushes for change and resilience within her community. She is someone who can blend into any conversation, any music genre, and any form of art. She’s versatile and multi talented. With all the change that has occurred in her life, she is able to push forward and still manage to be herself in the process of change and adaption. Janat is always looking for new people to collaborate with to expand not only her horizons, but allow others to try something new.” [words by Sofia Dominguez]


Xylo Aria | Founder | Music Production for Women

“Xylo Aria has single-handedly established and grown her online platform Music Production for Women (MPW) over the last 18 months - a development course, community, podcast series, You Tube channel and workshops to support women and non-binary musicians to learn music tech skills. She has poured huge amounts of her own time and money into this venture and donates a proportion of the profits she does make to charity. She has managed to grow the organization despite having to return to Australia in March 2020 as her UK visa was not renewed.” [words by Samantha Warren]

Zinhle Madela | Artist

“Zinhle is a phenomenal character and an inspiration to all of those around her. Her passion is rooted in celebrating heritage and culture which she clearly expresses through her music and her image because of this she holds her community and the people within it extremely close. This fuels her passion for community development and social activism which she pursues through her social initiative Heart Prints - which uses Arts and Culture to empower rural communities. This is a central theme in her music so overall she is a living embodiment of her work and her music - this is a powerful message to share to women and young girls through the world.” [words by Shermar Stuart]

Zoë Gholson | Director of People Operations | Stem

Stem is a leading digital distribution and payments platform that powers releases from independent artists including Frank Ocean, Foster The People, Dua Saleh, and Rachel Platten.

As Director of People Operations, Zoe sets the pace for Stem’s company culture, value system, and employee experience. This past year, during unprecedented times, Zoe rose to the occasion and shepherded Stem through both the Coronavirus Pandemic and Social Injustice Crisis in remarkably resourceful, resilient, and empathetic passion.

Zoe is our rock at Stem. Our protector. Our advocate. She’s an inspiring leader and an undoubtedly deserving nominee. [words by Seth Faber]

Check out last year’s Alternative Power 100 Music List 2019 here.

The Alternative Power 100 Music List 2018 is here.

The Alternative Power 100 Music List 2017 is here.