Case Studies

To name just a few young people who have come through the Academy and are now inspiring artists and tutors alike.

 
 

Bellah

Bellah, the prodigious talent nurtured under our wings for seven transformative years, now stands as a beacon of contemporary UK R&B. Nominated for a coveted MOBO award and hailed as the artist to watch in 2023, her journey epitomizes the fusion of soulful melodies and candid lyricism. Drawing inspiration from luminaries like Summer Walker, Kehlani, and SZA, Bellah infuses her British Nigerian heritage into her music, crafting a sound that resonates deeply with audiences.

With her debut EP, Adultsville, she solidified her status as the UK's new princess of R&B, offering a nostalgic nod to the genre's golden era while carving out her unique space in today's musical landscape. Her ability to effortlessly blend raw emotion with infectious hooks has earned her accolades from industry titans and critical acclaim from platforms like Complex and BBC 1Xtra. As she continues to ascend, Bellah's trajectory symbolizes the resurgence of authentic storytelling in music, captivating hearts and minds with every soul-stirring note.

 


 

DJ E-Dott

NorthsFinest, DJ EDOTT, is a dynamic force in the international music scene, hailing from North London. With two prestigious awards under his belt, DJ EDOTT is celebrated for his electrifying stage presence, commanding vocal ability, and impeccable song selections that guarantee to get any crowd on their feet. A true polymath of his craft, DJ EDOTT discovered his passion for music at the tender age of 12 and has since dedicated himself to honing his skills, amassing over 10,000 hours of experience behind the decks. Boasting over 3 million plays and having performed in over 30 countries, DJ EDOTT is recognized as the ultimate party DJ.

His roots in the vibrant sounds of African music, coupled with his father's influence as the renowned DJ ANDRE TOKYO, have shaped his eclectic musical palette, making him a sought-after talent in the Afrobeat scene. From headlining AfroNation to gracing prestigious venues like The Royal Albert Hall and the O2 Arena, DJ EDOTT's electrifying performances transcend genres and captivate audiences worldwide. With an impressive resume that includes live mixes on BBC 1XTRA and guest appearances on Capital Xtra, DJ EDOTT continues to push boundaries and redefine the art of DJing, earning him support credits alongside industry heavyweights like Wizkid, Lil Simz, and Tinie Tempah.

 


 

FKA Twigs

Tahliah Debrett Barnett, known by her stage name FKA Twigs, is a multifaceted British artist renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to music, dance, and fashion. Before captivating global audiences with her genre-bending soundscapes and avant-garde performances, Twigs honed her craft as a dance tutor at The DJMC Academy in 2011.

From those formative years, she emerged as a trailblazing singer-songwriter, dancer, and visual artist, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique blend of electronic music, trip hop, R&B, and avant-garde influences. Twigs' meteoric rise to prominence includes critically acclaimed albums such as LP1 and Magdalene, along with her recent mix-tape, Caprisongs, released under Atlantic Records. With a Grammy nomination, numerous accolades, and a groundbreaking NME Godlike Genius award to her name, FKA Twigs continues to push artistic boundaries and inspire generations with her unparalleled creativity and visionary approach to artistry.

 


 

C Cane

C Cane, a dynamic force in the music industry, embarked on her journey with The DJMC Academy as a tutor, honing her craft and inspiring countless aspiring artists along the way. Today, she commands the airwaves with her regular show on Represent Radio, captivating audiences with her infectious energy and unparalleled talent.

From memorable appearances on platforms like 1Xtra, KFC Adverts, and SBTV, to electrifying performances at major festivals including Wireless, Parklife, and Ends festival, Not content with just her musical prowess, C Cane has also made her mark in the world of television, appearing on BBC 3 alongside Idris Elba and featuring on Tony Visconti’s Unsigned stars for Sky Arts.

 


 

Kenny Barber

Kenny Barber also known as BXRBER embodies the transformative power of music, having begun his journey as a young adult assisting on workshops before blossoming into a celebrated artist and industry leader. With a background as a singer-songwriter signed to Sony ATV, BXRBER’s evolution from grass roots involvement to professional success is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for music.

Currently serving as the Relationship Manager at PRS for Music, BXRBER plays a pivotal role in supporting and promoting high-profile songwriters, producers, and music publishers. Additionally, as the Managing Director of Sonitus Music Group, he oversees a talented roster including R&B sensation Bellah and a diverse array of tour management projects. BXRBER's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and industry professionals alike, highlighting the boundless possibilities within the realm of music.

 


 

Christian

Christian, a visionary talent who began his journey at The DJMC Academy in 2011, has ascended to become a prominent figure in the music industry. From his humble beginnings, Christian has navigated the complex landscape of the music business with unparalleled expertise and determination. As a seasoned music manager, he has forged partnerships with some of the biggest labels in the industry, overseeing major publishing and distribution deals, and signing artists with top live agencies.

Christian's prowess extends to A&R'ing EPs and albums, orchestrating successful radio campaigns with esteemed platforms like BBC and Capital Xtra, and masterfully managing live shows and tours. His innate ability to cultivate new relationships with labels, publishers, artists, and producers on a global scale has solidified his reputation as a true industry maven.

Notably, Christian's impressive portfolio includes liaising artists with brands, a testament to his unique approach to artist development and brand integration. Christian manages Bellah, exemplifying his unwavering dedication to nurturing talent and shaping the future of the music industry.

 


 

Glenn Sonko

Glenn Sonko, a seasoned professional with roots in education and mentorship, initially taught on a course at Barnet College before extending his expertise to mentoring with the DJMC Academy. His journey has led him to manage renowned artists such as Tion Wayne and Potter Payper, showcasing his exceptional talent in artist management.

Additionally, Glenn holds a pivotal role as an A&R representative for Def Jam, contributing his keen insights and industry experience to the renowned record label. With his remarkable track record and dedication to nurturing talent, Glenn Sonko continues to shape the landscape of the music industry, earning him widespread recognition and admiration.

 


 

Kareem

Kareem's journey with the DJMC Academy began in work experience, and since then, he has worn various hats within the organization, evolving from Mentor to Studio Manager. With a background as a SEND Teacher and Mentor, Kareem has ascended to the role of our lead SEND Advisor and Administrator.

Beyond his administrative prowess, Kareem is a versatile electronic music producer, DJ, and media content creator. His collaborative work extends to partnerships with some of the UK and US's most promising electronic music producers, solidifying his presence in the dynamic landscape of electronic music.

 


 

Oskar

Oskar is a multifaceted talent encompassing the roles of DJ, guitarist, and music producer. His journey with the Academy began during his school work experience, and over the years, he has meticulously honed his skills, crafting an impressive portfolio of distinctive work. Oskar has seamlessly transitioned into the role of an instructor, passionately sharing his knowledge by teaching DJing and serving as a mentor within our community.

 


 

Grace

Grace, a dedicated member of our community, first joined us at the tender age of 13. Now at 20, she has blossomed into an exceptional singer, showcasing remarkable growth and talent. Continuously contributing to our mission, Grace now serves as an assistant tutor, leveraging her experience and passion to inspire others. Her journey has been marked by notable TV appearances, further solidifying her presence as a rising star in the music industry. Grace is undeniably one to watch as she continues to make waves with her undeniable talent and unwavering dedication.

 


 

JBeatz

JBeatz, a promising talent nurtured within our ranks, embarked on his journey as a young person learning the art of DJing and music production. With dedication and perseverance, he has evolved into a respected tutor within our academy, sharing his knowledge and passion with aspiring musicians.

Beyond his role as an educator, JBeatz has established himself as a renowned producer, gracing the stages of some of the most prestigious clubs in London and beyond. His contributions to the music scene have garnered acclaim, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the industry. JBeatz's journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of music education and the boundless potential of passionate individuals.