Trying to build a career in the music industry? Feeling the pressure of freelancing, creating, networking, or just figuring out where you fit in?

You’re not alone.

Join us for  ‘Creative Crisis’ a live discussion event exploring what it’s really like to be a young creative in today’s music industry. This event marks the final stage of a research project led by Mwathi Muriu-Gakonga (Sound Connections Junior Associate), focusing on the experiences of 18-25 year olds navigating the current creative landscape.

Whether you’re an artist, producer, DJ, songwriter, freelancer, event organiser, content creator, or simply hoping to break into the industry, this is a space for you!

This event will provide a welcoming space for young people to share their input and as well as having some practitioners and organisations who support young people sit in on the conversation.

📅 Event Details 

Date: Friday 20 November 2026
Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Location: Raw Material, 2 Robsart Street, Brixton, London SW9 0DJ 

🎟️ Book your free ticket here 

Your voice matters 

This isn’t just another panel event where people talk at you. 

Creative Crisis is about bringing young people together to: 

• Share honest experiences of working and creating in music 

• Discuss the realities and challenges facing young creatives today 

• Connect with others who understand the journey 

• Help shape recommendations for how the industry can better support young people 

Alongside fellow creatives, you’ll hear from practitioners and organisations working to support young people, creating an open conversation where everyone’s perspective is valued.

What to expect?

Over three hours, we’ll put young people’s experiences at the centre of the conversation. 

The evening will include: 

• A panel discussion (with the chance for Q&A)
• Group Discussion (Open to all)
• Presentation of current research (including interviews with a range of creatives from events producers to artists, instrumentalists, producers and youth practitioners)
• A creative interpretation of research findings

The panel will dive into the unique experiences of a range of different creatives, highlighting where things are being done well and where needs to improve to help young people establish sustainable careers in the creative industry/music industries.

This will be followed by an opportunity to connect with your fellow peers and creatives.