New foundation set up in memory of MC Conrad to support young artists

A new foundation has been established in honour of the late drum ‘n’ bass pioneer MC Conrad to support young and emerging artists.

MC Conrad Foundation hopes to give young artists a head start in the music industry, teaching intellectual property, PRS, and how to set yourself up as a self-employed artist.

The foundation will be established with the help of a fundraiser, which was launched last week just months after his passing. MC Conrad passed away in April aged 52.

“Esther, his dedicated niece, and friend Lisa will establish the MC Conrad Foundation,” reads the GoFundMe campaign. “The objective is to raise funds to support young musicians in the music industry.”

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“Conrad was passionate about mentoring young artists in their vocal and creative endeavours. It brought him great joy and pleasure to share his expertise.”

The campaign also adds that the music industry can be “tough and competitive”, and the foundation aims to challenge issues faced by young and marginalised artists.

The foundation will be led by a “specialised team” to support those hoping to break through. Conrad’s family have asked that, instead of sending flowers, mourners could consider donating to the foundation as a way to “fulfil Conrad’s dreams and aspirations”.

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“We are also mindful of the numerous plans he was working on,” they wrote. “Every contribution, regardless of size, is truly appreciated and will have a profound and meaningful impact.”

A portion of the donations received will also go toward a headstone for Conrad, giving “a place for people to pay their respects anytime”. More than £2,000 of a £20,000 target has been collected so far.

“He was a beloved artist, son, brother, uncle, father, family member, and friend to many,” his family wrote. “The void left by his departure has been felt locally, nationally, and internationally, with an outpouring of love from around the world.”

Donate to the fundraiser here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter