Bella Shmurda, 26 Others Make List Of YouTube Foundry Grant

On Tuesday, YouTube Music announced the 2021 cohort for Foundry with Nigeria’s Akinbiyi Ahmed popularly known as Bella Shmurda and 26 others to receive Foundry Programme grant to invest in their content and channel development.

Addy Awofisayo, YouTube Partnerships Manager, disclosed this in a statement.

She said that through the programme, artists would also have joint access to resources and teams that would allow them create and launch their music with greater impact and global reach.

Awofisayo said that the 2021 Foundry Class reinforced YouTube’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s next generation of global music stars; and playing a part in developing individual talent.

She further mentioned that the Foundry programme ensured that artists could be independent and still have a successful career in music with the support of platforms like YouTube.

According to her, artists will have access to YouTube partner support and workshops, marketing, social and press promotion, its global artist development programme with a mission to support independent musicians, and it would help to build sustainable career.

Bella Shmurda, from Nigeria, joins the list of 27 artists representing 14 countries and a broad spectrum of musical heritage this year.

“Artists are navigating a new, increasingly digital industry this year.

“To adapt and grow, they are finding new ways to create content, connect with fans and generate revenue.

‘’This year’s Foundry class celebrates artists and their courage and reduces barriers to entry,” she said.

The 27 artists were selected from 14 countries which includes Ambar Lucid, U.S.; Bad Milk, Colombia; Bella Shmurda, Nigeria; Blessd, Colombia; Chilldspot, Japan, amongst others.