DJ AG launches fundraiser to support independent artists
The viral internet sensation dubbed “the most important DJ in the UK” is intent on giving a platform to lesser known musicians
Viral internet sensation DJ AG has launched an online fundraiser to support independent artists.
“With so many independent artists blessing us with their talent it is only right we as a community try to support them,” reads the notes on the GoFundMe website. “I would like to help contribute towards the costs of studio time and distribution of their music.”
At the time of writing, it has raised £535 (around US$675) of its £1,5K (around US$1,894) target.
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With 189,000 followers on Instagram, the Tottenham-born DJ, Ashely Gordon, has been broadcasting his open-format sets from the busy London streets of Wood Green, Brixton and King’s Cross.
In recent months he has been dubbed “the most important DJ in the UK” in an article by The Guardian, and livestreamed performances by JME and Skepta, Krept and Konan, Lethal Bizzle and Jamaican vocalist Big Daddy Freddy.
The latter clip, which has amassed over one million views (according to The Guardian), is what catapulted DJ AG into the wider public's eye in September this year.
But Gordon’s intention is not just to show off the talents of already established musicians, but to provide a free platform for emerging artists, be that instrumentalists, MCs, or singers.
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In an interview with THE FACE, DJ AG said: “I want to serve more people and make it as cost-effective as possible. I don’t charge anything and I want it to stay that way. To make one song, you’ve got to pay for studio time, you’ve got to pay for the master and the mixing down, you’ve got to pay for the beat, you’ve got to pay for artwork, you’ve got to pay for the distribution.”
By raising money to help independent artists pay for studio time and distribution costs, DJ AG extends his mission of uplifting the UK’s grassroots music scene.
Donate to the fundraiser here.
Meena Sears is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Instagram
