SoundCloud has unveiled the nine artists that will feature in its new talent accelerator program.

Part of the streaming company’s ‘First on SoundCloud’ initiative which first launched in 2018 to promote emerging talent, the new accelerator will focus on dedicated investment for each of the chosen nine.

The artists will get support from SoundCloud’s artist development experts, creator resources, artist-to-fan community, and editorial expertise.

The accelerator will see SoundCloud’s experts collaborating with the artists to achieve important career milestones, from merch launches to producing their first cover art. 

Each artist will benefit from an introductory profile written by music journalist Kiana Fitzgerald, along with original video content such as interviews and behind-the-scenes peaks at their first photo shoots. 

Naturally, the artists will be featured on the ‘First on SoundCloud’ playlist and will also receive invaluable advice on their career development. The accelerator will also bring all nine artists together for a live event, presumably when Covid restrictions have lifted sufficiently. 

Representing a diverse range of genres, styles and backgrounds, the accelerator’s inaugural artist line-up is: Charmaine, Ela Minus, Kid Quill, Lourdiz, Otis Kane, Pa Salieu, Payday, Sofia Mills, and SoFaygo. 

“We’re very excited to introduce this new class of breakout emerging artists, all sharing the special qualities that represent the SoundCloud artist community at its core — they’re innovative, original, and DIY at heart,” said Erika Leone, Vice President, Brand Marketing, SoundCloud. 

“‘First on SoundCloud” has always been about amplifying emerging artists and driving discovery for listeners. With the new accelerator program we’ll work directly with the artists over this year to help them drive real, meaningful advances in their careers, while helping them reach new creative milestones and growing their global fan-bases.”