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University alumnus leads launch of landmark South Asian music initiative

17/11/2025
University alumnus leads launch of landmark South Asian music initiative

Harpreet Jandu (PBN), a graduate of the University of Wolverhampton and recipient of an Honorary Doctorate, has launched Playback Creates, a new platform dedicated to championing South Asian creativity and opening pathways into the creative industries. Its flagship programme, Homegrown, is a pioneering talent development initiative for emerging music artists across Wolverhampton and the Black Country.

Playback Creates is the first organisation of its kind in the region, addressing a long-standing gap in culturally informed development opportunities for South Asian creatives. Its mission is to build a pipeline of talent by providing access, visibility, and community support where it has too often been lacking.

Speaking about the launch, Harpreet said: “Homegrown is about changing the story for South Asian creatives. Talent is everywhere in Wolverhampton and the Black Country, but opportunity isn’t, and that’s what we’re here to change. Playback Creates exists to give artists the tools, support, and visibility they need to take real steps into the music industry. This is the first programme of its kind in the region, and it's only the beginning. We’re investing in our community because we believe in its potential, and because South Asian artists deserve spaces to explore their voice and shape the future of UK music.”

Homegrown is supported by Arts Council England and partnered with Punch Records. The programme will empower up to ten emerging musicians, singers, rappers, and producers aged 16–30 to record, create, and elevate their own music. Over six weeks, participants will gain exclusive studio time at APS Studios (Wolverhampton Arts Centre), one-to-one mentoring from respected artists and industry professionals, insider music-industry insight, and the chance to perform at a final showcase event at Vaal & Vaal, Wolverhampton.

Running from January to February 2026, with a showcase in March, Homegrown is free, inclusive, and culturally relevant, supporting emerging artists to grow in confidence, refine their craft, and access real opportunities in a sector where representation remains limited.

Applications are open to individuals from South Asian communities living in Wolverhampton and the Black Country and applicants may be musicians, singer-songwriters, rappers, producers, beatmakers, or other music creatives at an entry-level stage.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 10 December 2025 at 5pm. 

People can apply via the Playback Creates website

 

Photo credit - Sean, Phosmedia

For more information please contact the Corporate Communications Team.

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