BIMM students’ radio show amplifies female and non-binary artists

18 November, 2020

Caitlan King and Bronwen Latham have taken to the airwaves to share female and non-binary artists, hoping to narrow the gender gap in the music industry – and we’re here for it.

Caitlan and Bronwen met at BIMM Institute Brighton, both studying songwriting. They are natural performers who use radio to spread their message. Their fortnightly show, Bluezy Tues on Platform B Radio, has been broadcasting for over a year now. On their show, Caitlin and Bronwen share songs that inspire them, whilst focussing on female and non-binary artists and producers.

Platform B Radio is a not-for-profit, Brighton based radio station that champions young people throughout the city. Broadcasting online since 2016 and on 105.5FM and DAB across Brighton and Hove since October 2018 – the station supports and nurtures talented and aspiring DJs, producers and presenters who are reimagining and diversifying the medium through music.

Caitlan and Bronwen aim to create a platform for individuals who also feel strongly about similar subject matters, leading to the inception of their weekly podcast, also called Bluezy Tues. This allows them to further the discussion on female representation in the music industry and tackle issues often seen as taboo, such as sex and periods.

Reading and learning about these subjects fuelled Bronwen’s love for journalism, which led to her furthering her feminist interests and discussions surrounding other male-dominated fields of work. She also writes for City Girl Network Magazine, where she speaks on topics ranging from inequality in the music industry to book reviews to help motivate people working from home. Meanwhile, Caitlin found her love for radio after completing work experience at Heart FM when she was just sixteen.

Solmaz Aslan, Platform B’s Assistant Station Manager, had this to add:

“Over the last year, Caitlan and Bronwen have created an incredible space to showcase the best up and coming female and non-binary artists. Spanning RnB, Neo Soul, Hip Hop, Electronic and more – Bluezy Tues offers something for all audiences to enjoy and learn from.”


Catching up with Caitlan and Bronwen

How do you guys work so well together?

B: We have similar tastes in music and we always have a laugh even when stuff gets stressful.

C: [She’s] very laid back and easy to work with! We share common interests and hit it off straight away.

What’s your podcast called, and when is it coming?

B: The launch date is the 1st December.

C: We’re super excited to share it with everyone.

What sort of topics do you discuss on your radio show?

B: We discuss a range of topics, but predominantly. our show is focussed on gender inequality within industries. We will also discuss subjects that are often classed as taboo, for example, periods and sex.

C: Essentially, we wanted to create a platform where it is a safe space for young people to listen and learn.

How has BIMM helped you get to where you are today?

B: I’ve had huge support from the professional development team at BIMM. I was put in contact with the relevant people who could help and support my career. What’s also lovely is how excited they are about our project and us succeeding.

C: I’m the same as Bron with the Professional Development team! I have also had great support with writing my CV for future opportunities. The support from other female members of staff has been amazing.

Who are some of your favourite female and non-binary artists at the moment?

B: Joy Crookes, Junglepussy, TOKiMONSTA, Ella Mai, H.E.R, Taninga Stone and Mahalia.

C: Pip Millett, Jhené Aiko, Kali Uchis, Ama Lou, Celeste, Jorja Smith and Eloise.

How do you hope the music industry will look in a few years in terms of gender equality?

B: I hope there are more female/non-binary in high up roles within the industry, especially in the recording studios. I also hope there is more awareness and promotion of gender equality within the industry.

C: To have more labels solely dedicated to female/non-binary artists. Again, what Bron said about the recording studios and having more producers who are female/non-binary so there is an equal mix.


 

Make sure you keep up-to-date with Caitlan and Bronwen’s radio show via Platform B and keep a lookout for their podcast Bluezy Tues, launching at the start of December.

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