AWAL partners with Creative Futures Collective to launch AWAL Futures Program

21 May 2024 - Press release

 

AWAL has partnered with the LA-based networking and mentoring program Creative Futures Collective to launch the AWAL Futures program, with the focus on launching the careers of artists and supporting creatives from underrepresented communities.

The artists selected into the AWAL Futures program will receive a committed EP release from AWAL, mentorship from key executives at the company, and an EP release event at Soho Warehouse in July. The program will also leverage other creatives from the Creative Futures Collective-community to assist with marketing assets such as music videos, photos, and other artwork.

Creative Futures Collective CEO and Co-founder, Jai Al-Attas says, “Teaming up with AWAL is the perfect next step in the evolution of Creative Futures Collective. When we launched back in 2019, our whole focus was trying to get internships in the creative industries for people from disenfranchised backgrounds, but as we grew from having 10 fellows based in LA to now having over 1,500 alumni globally, we noticed that not everyone is looking for a 9 to 5 job. We also have incredible artists, filmmakers, storytellers, designers, entrepreneurs and more that are looking for their opportunity to launch their careers, and AWAL gives us the perfect partner in which to do that.”

AWAL CEO Lonny Olinick adds, “Our core mission is to partner with independent artists to tell stories that shape culture, so joining forces with CFC is a natural partnership. Combining our deep experience with the platform Jai and his team have built allows us to amplify underrepresented voices, championing stories from a diverse array of experiences. I’m excited to equip these exceptional artists with tools for their development and see the future talent to come out of this program.”

The artists selected in the inaugural AWAL Futures program are:

Bitters:
BITTERS is a Brooklyn based project featuring British front-woman, Claudia Mills. Inspired by female fronted 90s alt such as Garbage, No Doubt and The Cardigans, BITTERS combines sonic nostalgia with modern flair. 

NanaBcool:
NanaBcool is a Ghanaian-American vocalist, songwriter, and dancer from Columbus, Ohio. Growing up in a musical family, he draws inspiration from a range of highlife music to Michael Jackson and J Dilla.

Jay Wood:
If you have yet to hear the name Jay Wood, you’re easily missing out on one of hip-hop’s best new artists. The Chicago rapper/producer captures listeners with vulnerable, relatable songwriting and ironclad vocals that pierce through instrumentals. His sound falls into a gap between rap and R&B but exudes creativity as it floats through different artistic spaces.