Last month, two students from our BA Music and Sound Production course attended an exciting two-day music masterclass hosted by Into Your Light (CIC) and Defigo, in collaboration with the University of Greenwich, Extro Creative, and Music Through The Bars.
The workshop was facilitated by iconic UK grime artist Maxwell D, who kicked off the masterclass with a powerful talk. Reflecting on his personal journey, from being placed in care as a child to achieving mainstream success, he shared an inspiring story of transformation, including how time in prison led him to rediscover his passion for music.
He then guided attendees through a detailed discussion on entering the music industry in 2025, including how to build a buzz, understand income streams, utilise social media platforms, and navigate key topics like radio payouts and publishing splits.
The afternoon featured valuable insights and a Q/A session from a series of guest speakers:
- Luke James Pascoe, digital marketer (clients include D Block Europe, Nemzz, J Hus)
- Debbie Gayle, tour manager for artists such as Ayra Starr, Rema, and J Hus
- SK Vibemaker, radio presenter at Rinse FM
On day two, students took part in a hands-on music production workshop, collaborating in groups to create and perform original soundtracks. The session also covered deeper industry insights, including revenue streams, sponsorships, and deal structures. The day concluded with an inspiring talk from Sheun, artist manager for NSG, Keeya Keys, and Jaysilvaa, who has generated over a billion streams across digital platforms. He shared his experiences managing a successful group, his decision to go independent, and offered advice on building an audience, understanding deal terms, and pursuing a purposeful career in music.
Dr Amit Dinesh Patel, Academic Leader for Performance and Programme Leader for BA Music and Sound Production, shared:
This collaboration with Defigo is more than a one-off event — it reflects our team’s deep commitment to increasing access and diversity in experimental sound and sound design. By working with practitioners who actively engage younger and underrepresented audiences, we’re not only opening pathways into higher education but also helping to shape a more inclusive future for the field. This work closely aligns with my research at the Sound/Image Research Centre, which is focused on making experimental sound a space that is inclusive and accessible to all. This partnership with Defigo also embodies the values and aims of the University — championing inclusivity, fostering meaningful collaboration, and making a lasting impact through creative and socially engaged practice.
Lan Thompson-Majasi, a student on the BA Music and Sound Production course, added:
I loved the masterclass - it was very engaging and informative. I also liked the practical exercises, specifically the songwriting workshop, because I haven't written a full song before. It opened my mind up to new creative processes as well as built upon self-taught practices. The guest speakers gave me important insight on different roles within the industry, and their day-to-day breakdown was helpful. The course also provided incredibly important practical advice in a business sense, signposting us to different organisations that collect our revenue, as well as the importance of trademarks. Overall, the masterclass was insightful, well-rounded, and all the leaders/guests were really friendly.
We look forward to building on this partnership and supporting more opportunities that connect our students with the music industry!
