AudioActive: Empowering young talent in South East England

If you find yourself in the company of young people involved in the music scene in Sussex in South East England, chances are they have a connection with AudioActive.

Be it someone talking about a Kustom Vibes improvised rap cypher, a sibling getting involved with Equaliser, a space for women and non-binary people to work on production, or even a mentor championing youth-led music-making sessions, AudioActive is renowned for its active impact on the community, with a rich legacy reaching back to the heady days of 1999.

AudioActive has a long-standing history of supporting artists before they hit the mainstream. Rizzle Kicks, Rag’n’Bone Man and ArrDee all spent time in the AudioActive sphere before they made a name for themselves, proving that this isn’t just another youth initiative, it’s also a launchpad for long-term success.

AudioActive’s mission isn’t just about making stars - it’s about making music accessible to everyone, regardless of background or experience. They are committed to breaking down barriers to entry, offering free sessions and open-access support to young people who might not otherwise have a shot at the industry or the chance to express themselves freely through music.

Sitting neatly at the nexus of social impact and talent development through music, AudioActive is uniquely positioned to tackle unequal access to music in Sussex and the South East. Through a dedicated programme designed to meet young people where they’re at, AudioActive are known for their commitment to building community and actioning localised advocacy where it’s needed most. 

By pioneering countless groundbreaking initiatives both front of house and behind the scenes, AudioActive are living proof that music isn’t just for entertainment, it’s also a vital tool for change.

Aligning with their commitment to sustained and intentional regional outreach, AudioActive will be launching a brand-new pop-up space at Crawley County Mall in partnership with Creative Crawley this April. The vibrant venue will offer free, open-access music-making sessions for young people alongside exciting headline events, forming part of The Creative Village initiative to champion creative industries across the region. 

You can look forward to a rap masterclass and cypher with the legendary Donae’o on the 9th April, and the AudioActive Mixtape Launch with the iconic Mak 10 on the 24th, alongside free sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7th April.

At its heart, AudioActive is all about giving young artists a stage to express themselves creatively, whether it’s a seafront cypher or a packed-out gig, the organisation creates spaces where newcomers can step up to the mic alongside established names. 

By working closely with young people facing tough circumstances, AudioActive utilises the power of music as a freeing and dynamic outlet for creativity and self-discovery. For many, AudioActive is more than just a place to hang out and write some bars, it’s a lifeline. 

As the UK music scene continually evolves, AudioActive continues to prove that the most exciting talent comes from the grassroots. By championing young artists and making sure opportunities are open to all, they’re shaping a music industry that’s more inclusive and representative of young people caught up in the thick of it. 

With over two decades of impact and no signs of slowing down, AudioActive is a force to be reckoned with, both in Sussex and beyond.