Nigerian A&R strategist and music industry entrepreneur Babatunde Makinde is launching THE A&R FOUNDRY 2027, an initiative aimed at developing the next generation of music talent scouts across Africa. The programme, powered by A&R Duty, an AI-powered A&R platform, seeks to identify and equip emerging Artists and Repertoire (A&R) professionals with the skills needed to succeed in the music industry. Makinde's initiative targets five African markets, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa.
THE A&R FOUNDRY 2027 is a flagship development initiative of A&R Foundation, which focuses on education and empowerment for emerging music talent and professionals. The programme aims to provide a structured route into the A&R profession, which is often behind-the-scenes, involving talent scouting, music evaluation, artist development, and connecting artists with opportunities. Makinde, with over a decade of experience in A&R, talent management, and music marketing, believes that discovering an artist is only the beginning, and the right A&R professional is crucial in building a sustainable career.
The initiative brings together professional development and technology, with A&R Duty powering THE A&R FOUNDRY. The aim is to encourage a new generation of A&R professionals who combine an ear for music with research, judgement, industry knowledge, and an understanding of how artists build their careers. Details about the 2027 cohort, including eligibility, programme format, selection criteria, and application dates, are expected to be announced through A&R Foundation's official channels.
Prospective applicants are advised to follow A&R Foundation's official channels for confirmed information. A&R Foundation is also inviting music companies, record labels, universities, brands, and potential sponsors to explore ways to support the initiative and its planned reach across the five markets. Makinde's work focuses on helping identify emerging talent and building the strategy, positioning, and professional relationships that can support an artist's long-term development.
As the founder of A&R Duty, an AI-powered platform for talent discovery and A&R workflows, Makinde is advancing a complementary focus on educating and developing the next generation of A&R professionals. He holds an MBA in Marketing and has extensive experience across A&R, talent management, artist development, and music marketing. THE A&R FOUNDRY 2027 aims to support people interested in A&R work by contributing to a more structured route into the profession.
The music industry in Africa is set to benefit from the development of emerging A&R professionals, who will play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing new talent. With the rise of African music globally, there is a growing need for skilled A&R professionals who can help artists navigate the industry and build sustainable careers. THE A&R FOUNDRY 2027 is poised to make a significant impact in this regard.
As the music industry continues to evolve, initiatives like THE A&R FOUNDRY 2027 are essential in ensuring that emerging talent is identified and developed. With Babatunde Makinde at the helm, the initiative is set to make a lasting impact on the African music industry. Key stakeholders in the industry are eagerly awaiting the announcement of details about the 2027 cohort.
Key points
- Babatunde Makinde launches THE A&R FOUNDRY 2027 to develop Africa's next generation of music talent scouts.
- The initiative targets five African markets, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa.
- THE A&R FOUNDRY 2027 is powered by A&R Duty, an AI-powered A&R platform focused on talent discovery and music industry workflows.
