Welcome to Queenz Sounds Blog: An Introduction
Bringing a selection of articles and blog posts to Queenz Sounds is a really exciting new venture. It's a way to advocate, as well as a means to celebrate. Following an interview from EJ Kempson, founder of Queenz Sounds, we are able to share a little bit more about the charity, how it came about, and its ethos and aims.
“Being a musician myself I have experienced the difficulties getting anywhere if you are in any way different from the norm. Over the years I have watched many talented musicians give up due to the discrimination they experienced on a daily basis.”
With a goal of equalising the music industry, whilst empowering musicians along the way, Queenz Sounds is creating an inclusive and supportive space for artists because unfortunately the music industry is not yet an even playing field – “The gender divide within the music industry is roughly 70% male and 30% female and an unknown amount of LGBTQ+ members because the music diversity surveys do not acknowledge sexual orientation”.
This inequality was one of the initial sparks that lit the fuse behind the making of Queenz Sounds, and it has not burned out. The main goal has stayed the same - equal opportunities, specifically within the music industry. EJ went on to explain – “Art is a freedom of expression, a soul on display for the world to see. There are some specific instances etched into my brain of people needing to choose between being who they were and their career in the music industry”.
Taking this as motivation, EJ began to create an inclusive space for artists where they can feel safe and encouraged to be themselves . One which is full of acceptance and empowerment, with plenty of space to thrive within their own individualities and differences. All of which is often expressed through their art.
“This is why Queenz Sounds is so important, having the support system there and people actively trying to make a difference will show artists that they are beautiful, loved, and safe, hopefully lifting a little of the strain on their mental health.”
Breaking into the music industry is hard, especially if you don't fit into a pre-decided mould. Of course, there is a strong dedication to helping artists’ growth, development and income. However, there is an equal emphasis on the challenges and difficulties that often comes with this, allowing artists to achieve their full potential – “Every artist that we work with is at a completely different level and is working towards a completely different goal, we try to accommodate every version of what that might mean. One of the key aspects of how we operate is making sure that artists can ask us anything, there are a lot of gaps in knowledge that we are able to help with”.
This allows each and every artist working with Queenz Sounds to receive the support they need, tailored to their own personal position in the music industry. Regardless of background, experience or knowledge. From helping artists with their social media growth, making EPKs, organising session musicians, photoshoots and professional recordings. There is heaps of support, in every aspect. While the individual support Queenz Sounds offers its artists is important, its position and goal within the wider community is prominent too.
“Queenz Sounds is about more than music, it’s about care, connection, and community-led change. We exist to uplift women, LGBTQIA+ and non-binary artists in an industry that often overlooks them. As musicians ourselves, we’ve experienced the barriers, so we’re building a future where those barriers don’t exist.”
Currently supporting over 20 artists across a multitude of diverse genres - from experimental club and hyperpop, to spoken word and hip-hop - there is no definition or requirement upon becoming a part of Queens Sounds. Expression is important at Queenz Sounds, it’s at its core “what unites our roster is a shared commitment to bold creativity, community care, and breaking down industry barriers”.
Some of these artists have been working with Queenz Sounds since the beginning, and some have joined along the way. Regardless of the relationship, EJ explained that the aim remains to be that of ‘building long-term, supportive partnerships rooted in mutual trust, shared values and artistic growth’.
An organisation driven by individuals that understand the discrimination faced by female, LGBTQIA+ and non-binary artists within the music industry is one which aims to make a true difference. EJ discussed the growth of the charity, which has been achieved through the ‘support of collaborations, knowledge sharing, and artist connections’, explaining that it has allowed the Queenz Sounds initiative to spread past the border of Scotland.
“We will be able to make a bigger difference in the industry and change it not just to help the artists on our roster but also for other minorities in the industry. We now have the opportunity to make a permanent long-lasting difference in the music industry and can start holding people accountable for their actions”
Behind the workings of Queenz Sounds there are many different people who have come together over the years, for the shared aim of inclusivity in the music industry. A dedicated team of Volunteers and Trustees, alongside a team of short-term and event based volunteers are an integral part of the charity's success. It’s an ode to the values of Queenz Sounds, community and support - “Together, they cover everything from event production, artist support, communications, fundraising, admin, accessibility, and outreach. This enduring dedication and collective effort is what keeps Queenz Sounds thriving as a community-led organisation.”.
Queenz Sounds is successfully creating a safe and friendly environment within the music industry, drawing together a group of like-minded musicians, professionals and volunteers. All of them are fighting for an inclusive space for each and every musician. A non-profit with an incredible cause. One which is actively taking strides towards equality.
“Our message is simple: everyone deserves access, support, and space to thrive. Through collective effort, shared values, and a deep love for music, Queenz Sounds is creating that space, one show, one artist, one community at a time. We empower our Queenz to take up space boldly, creatively, and confidently in the music world. #empowerourqueenz”