Go Global: Your Stage Awaits

Many artists wait for a mainstream cosign before looking abroad, but the game has changed. At BANG, we believe your international career can start now. These opportunities are your passport to global collaboration and new audiences, proving that you don't need to be a household name to make a worldwide impact. Your ambition is the only visa you need.

• Goethe-Institut: International Co-production Fund (TIM) - Supports co-productions between German and international artists. Deadline: 31 October 2025. Apply Here →
• Kulturstiftung des Bundes: Zero Programme - A fund for arts and culture projects that focus on sustainability. Deadline: 30 April 2026. Learn More →
• EUNIC Cluster Fund 2026 - Supports collaborative projects between European cultural institutes and local partners outside the EU. Deadline: 10 November 2025. Find Out More →

More Than Music – What A&Rs Look For

So you’ve made a great track. That’s the first step, but in today’s competitive landscape, it’s only a fraction of what an A&R representative evaluates. They aren't just signing a song; they're investing in a business. Your business.

Your EPK is the resume that gets you in the door, but your overall package is what closes the deal. Here are the key pillars A&Rs scrutinize:

• The Music: This is non-negotiable. Your music must be high-quality, not just in songwriting but in production. It should demonstrate a clear artistic vision and a unique sound that can find a place in the market.
• The Brand: Who are you as an artist? Your brand is the story you tell through your visuals, social media, and communication. A strong, authentic brand shows an A&R that you understand your audience and have a clear identity they can help amplify.
• The Business: A&Rs look for proof of concept. Are you already building a fanbase? Consistent social media engagement, growing streaming numbers, and a history of live performances show that you have the drive to build a community.
• The Professionalism: How you conduct yourself is critical. Respond to emails promptly. Have all your assets (like your EPK) ready to go. When an A&R sees an organized artist, it signals you’ll be a reliable partner.

Think of it this way: your music is the product, but you are the startup. An A&R is a venture capitalist looking for the startups with the most potential for growth. Show them you're the best investment they can make.

Your Digital Homebase: The Professional Music Platform

An A&R will inevitably search for your music online. Where they land is critical. A scattered presence across multiple platforms can look amateurish. You need a central, professional hub that you control completely—one that tells your story your way. Use this checklist to ensure your primary music platform is A&R-ready:

• Professional Imagery: Use a high-resolution profile photo and banner that aligns with your brand.
• Compelling Bio: Write a short, professional bio that tells your story and links to your EPK.
• Curate Your Best Work: Feature your strongest or most recent tracks prominently.
• High-Quality Audio: Always present your music in the highest possible quality.
• Master Your Metadata: Add relevant tags, descriptions, and credits for all collaborators.
• Use Private Links for Demos: Always use a private, shareable link when sending unreleased music to industry contacts.

Nine2Five Productions, Cofimvaba's Hitmakers

In the heart of the Eastern Cape, Nine2Five Productions is making waves. Based in Cofimvaba, this full-service artist management and music publishing company has become a vital force in discovering and developing the region's talent. They represent the kind of local industry player that artists need to be ready for. Getting on their radar requires having your entire professional package in order—from a polished EPK to a professional online presence.

Read our full interview with their A&R, Bongile Pateni →