Since the launch of #WeAreListening in 2018, we’ve signed music and artists directly through this project. We’re proud to say we have brought a group of people together, who otherwise may not have met – resulting in collaborations, residencies, and club bookings.

On the day, we had multiple sessions with industry experts covering a range of topics.  These included an A&R session with Toolroom’s Pete Griffiths and Matt Smallwood, an interview with AmyElle, Marketing Essentials with Mustard Media’s Sian Bennett and A Vocal Production Masterclass with D.Ramirez.

A mixture of new and familiar faces were in attendance to soak up the knowledge on offer.

A&R Session with Pete Griffiths and Matt Smallwood

Pete & Matt have years of experience working in A&R for Toolroom and have helped to nurture some of the biggest tracks released on the label.

This session provided the opportunity for the attendee’s tracks to be heard and receive feedback directly from those working at a world leading record label.

They provided feedback on things like sound choice, arrangement and mixdown’s, and explained to the attendees how they can get an extra 10% from their records.

Following the A&R session on the day, both Charmain Love and Emma Clair have had their tracks signed to Toolroom! This is just one example of how this platform is helping to break down the barriers between the artists and label.

“Having the opportunity to get feedback on our tracks from the Toolroom A&R Pete and Matt was fantastic!” – Emajen

“I always come away from these events feeling inspired. I really enjoyed listening to everyone’s tracks in the A&R session.” – Emma Clair

Interview with AmyElle

AmyElle is a name that is taking the industry by storm since her explosion onto the scene in 2020. She came in to explain how she started her career in the music industry and give advice on how others can follow in her footsteps.

“Such an awesome day with amazing content. Even more then I was I expecting. So happy that I came and also got to meet other like-minded artists. I really enjoyed listening to all the speakers as they provided such varied and interesting content. I particularly enjoyed hearing about AmyElle’s journey as I’ve followed her for a while now.” – Chantelle

Marketing Essentials with Sian Bennett

Sian Bennett is the strategy director for Mustard Media and works with some of the biggest festivals and events in the industry to create sell out strategies. She talked about all things marketing in music and how artists can grow an online audience.

“I have attended many WAL and Toolroom Academy learning days – they are always so fantastic and inspiring. I really enjoyed the Q&As this time and have lots of notes & action points for myself! It was great to hear from Sian this time from a Marketing POV – as this gave some different insights to those we have heard before. I would definitely love to come again!” – Molly Mouse

BBC Introducing with Abbie McCarthy

The BBC Introducing and Radio 1 DJ shared some insights about how Artists can go about getting support from the BBC network and how to break through in this industry!

Abbie currently has her show on Saturday evenings and is a pioneer for breaking new talent through.

Since this session with Abbie, 5 of our attendees have gone on to do mixes for BBC Kent, and many have had their tracks played in the space of 2 months.

Vocal Production with D.Ramirez

D.Ramirez is a producer with years of experience at the very top. Following the launch of his Vocals Hooks Course, he came along to give an EXCLUSIVE vocal production session which will help your tracks stand out to label A&R’s.

“The vocal hooks session with D Ramirez was a game changer” – Emma Clair

“I could have listened to D Ramirez talk about production for another few hours” – Teresa Jane

“Dean Ramirez Vocal Hooks lesson was priceless” – Chantelle

“#wearelistening was a brilliant day, an excellent selection of speakers, production advice, invaluable A&R feedback, you get to network with other likeminded females and not only that but they feed you! And it’s all free, what more can you ask for! Big love to Toolroom for putting an event like this on.” – Charmain Love

“Still on a high from yesterday! I’ve got fire in my belly now. I will definitely see you at the next one. Thank you so much.” – Our Girl G

“We Are Listening was such an incredible day.  From very start I felt really welcomed by everyone, all the guys and girls at Toolroom and the other female artists were so warm and friendly.  The structure of the day was fantastic and having the opportunity to get feedback on our tracks from the Toolroom A&R Pete and Matt, and also from our peers was absolutely amazing.” – Emajen

“I’ve come away so inspired. Thank you so much to the Toolroom Team.” – Hollie.

GET INVOLVED

If you would like to find out more about our #WeAreListening platform and stay up to date with future events, then drop an email to carly@toolroomacademy.com.