RECENT PROJECTS
Overview: Hotbox Entertainment proudly presents "The Hip-Hop Conference festival," a groundbreaking two-day event that not only celebrated Northern Ireland's music scene but also fostered growth, learning, and community within our talented pool of artists.
Conference poster
Day One: Workshops and Deers Head Performance The conference kicked off with transformative workshops, including the immensely popular Listening Session and Feedback Class with music professionals. As artists immersed themselves in the industry's pulse, the event became a catalyst for growth. Students shared stories of how this immersive experience provided not just feedback but a roadmap for their musical journey. The night concluded with an electrifying performance at the Deer's Head, featuring the first set of 15 artists from our NI’S Finest Mixtape. The mixtape features 30 artists from Northern Ireland.
Picture: listening + feedback workshop
Day Two: Crescent Arts Centre Showcase and Panels Day two unfolded at the prestigious Crescent Arts Centre, where artists continued to shine. The event showcased musical prowess and the premiere of our BBC Hip-Hop Documentary, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Northern Ireland's vibrant hip-hop scene. The real magic happened in the panels led by industry titans, where students gained insights that transcended the conference. They expressed newfound hope, envisioning a brighter future for their music careers. There was also a panel led by 4 young people from different parts of Belfast talking about what they needed and how they see Belfast today. This was extremely important because they were able to vent and express themselves
Picture: 1 of 4 panels. BBC Post Documentary Panel (Tolu Ogunware (Photographer & Videographer), Tim K Newell (BBC Producer/Director/Creative in Broadcast), Gemma Bradley (BBC Presenter), James Ayo (HBE & YUC.CIC Director), Lee Elliot (HBE Producer)
Outcomes and Impact: "The Hip-Hop Conference" was more than just an event; it was a transformative experience. Participants shared heartwarming stories of newfound connections, learning curves, and most importantly, a restored sense of hope for their musical future. Many highlighted how the event served as a launchpad, providing not only valuable industry insights but also a supportive community. Through Hotbox Entertainment's commitment to education and empowerment, the conference left an indelible mark on the artistic journeys of these young talents.
Picture: performance from Newry artist features on the NI’S Mixtape
Support and Partnerships: This impactful event was made possible through the generous support of the Rio Ferdinand Foundation, Crescent Arts Centre, Belfast City Council, BBC, Oh Yeah Music Centre, and the PRS Foundation. Their collaborative spirit played a pivotal role in creating an environment where emerging talents not only performed but thrived.
Picture: Joanne Wright Belfast City Council - Arts Development Officer
Sound of Belfast: As part of the larger "Sound of Belfast" initiative, "The Hip-Hop Conference" underscored Hotbox Entertainment's commitment to nurturing Northern Ireland's music scene, one artist at a time. Stay tuned for more empowering projects that continue to shape the future of music in our vibrant community!
Picture: Belfast performer
Picture: Panel - Opportunities to scale - Panelists: Katie Martinez(Ellas all female collective), Charlene Hegarty (Ohyeah Music Centre), Joanne Wright (Belfast City Council), Gemma Bradley (BBC ATL), Safo (Music Group Manager, Label owner)
Picture: Panel - Strategies to scale - Panelists: Siobhan brown (Radio Presenter BBC), Joseph Ricketts (Artist Manager), Sunjay Kohl (Senior Youtube Manager), Nathan Sauram (Talent Scout, Marketing Strategist)
Check out some of the panel discussions
PROJECT 2 - 30+ Artist Northern Ireland Mixtape
Overview: Hotbox Entertainment proudly presents "NI's Finest Mixtape," an extraordinary musical journey curated within the vibrant walls of our studio. This groundbreaking project unites 30 emerging artists from various corners of Northern Ireland, crafting a harmonious tapestry of talent.
Picture: Ni’s Finest Mixtape Cover (Mixtape on all platforms)
Recording Process: Transforming our studio into a creative haven, the four-month recording process was a testament to collaboration and innovation. With about 35 distinctive tracks, "NI's Finest Mixtape" embodies the rich diversity and cultural resonance of Northern Ireland's emerging music scene.
Picture: Artist - Shimmer (Young Talent 16 yrs of age) at the hotbox Studios
Press and Exposure: This cultural phenomenon received widespread acclaim, earning features on major platforms such as BBC News, Belfast Live, BBC ATL Documentary, Ulster Radio, and a Radio 4 spotlight. The mixtape's resonant impact extended beyond the auditory realm, captivating audiences and amplifying the voices of Northern Ireland's rising stars.
Picture: Belfast Live Article
Visual Accompaniment: Complementing the auditory feast, Hotbox Entertainment crafted 12 visually captivating videos for select mixtape tracks. This fusion of music and visuals not only added depth to the storytelling but also showcased the artistic prowess of Northern Ireland's youth.
Picture: Music Video ENDO LINK
Youth-Led Production: "NI's Finest Mixtape" is a testament to youth-led production, from the beats created by talented Belfast-based producers to the videographers and promoters under the age of 25. This project is an ode to the vibrancy and creativity embedded in Northern Ireland's young artistic community.
Picture; Youth Panel - Panelists: Young Spencer (Artist from Shankill), Wee Joe (Artist from Lurgan) Rich Smicks (Artist from East Belfast) Durt Burd (Artist from Wst Belfast)
City-Center Billboards: Breaking conventional boundaries, "NI's Finest Mixtape" soared to new heights with prominent billboards in Belfast city center. These billboards, towering over the urban landscape, not only celebrated the artistic achievements but also served as beacons of inspiration for the young creators involved. Witnessing their work on such a grand scale instilled a sense of pride and accomplishment, making a lasting impact on the artists and the city alike.
Picture: Billboard City Centre
Support and Partnerships: Supported by esteemed organizations such as the PRS Foundation, BBC, and Belfast City Council, "NI's Finest Mixtape" stands as a collaborative triumph. These partnerships underscore the collective effort to uplift young musicians and contribute to the dynamic cultural fabric of Northern Ireland.
Beyond Borders: More than just a mixtape, "NI's Finest" is a cultural movement that transcends geographical boundaries, uniting artists and audiences across Northern Ireland. Hotbox Entertainment continues to redefine the narrative of the region's music scene, creating a legacy that resonates far beyond studio walls.