In May 2018, in collaboration with PRS Foundation, we sponsored a Flash Funding to give emerging artists the chance to press 500 12" vinyl to assist in progressing their music career. Mina Rose was one of the recipients of this prize at the event. A year later, we catch up with the solo artist to update our readers on how the funding was valuable to her.
Flash Funding addresses issues facing emerging music creators by responding to specific needs with an innovative approach to funding, involving video submissions, quick turnaround and high-profile industry experts and partners. The Flash Fund for Vinyl is launched on April 23rd, with a deadline of Tuesday 30th April at 11:59pm. Artists wanting to apply should head to https://prsfoundation.com/flashfunding/
Were you happy with the product/service received?
I was very happy with the process and support with getting the artwork done correctly to get a professional finish in the final print. I am very happy with the quality of the records, they have really brought the artwork of my EP to life. Which otherwise would have been lost as a small digital thumbnail. Most people who have one have framed and displayed it on their wall!
How did you use the vinyl?
Straight after I received the vinyl I went on tour to support Jorja Smith around the UK, so it was a perfect time to be able to sell my EP. I sold some every night which was amazing! I have also distributed a few in my favourite local record shop 'Casbah Records' who have a local artist section in their shop. I am yet to check back to find out if they have sold any, but they have always been very supportive. I also started selling them exclusively online with Depop who promoted the EP in their worldwide newsletter. On top of that, I started a dance challenge hashtag for the release of my new single 'RUN' and for every person that entered and posted a video of themselves dancing to my new single; they won a free copy of the vinyl!
Did the vinyl and the revenues from selling the vinyl help with the band’s career development?
I am yet to use the revenue from the vinyl, but it will definitely go towards developing my career; possibly a music video or taking my live performances to the next level. With some of the revenue, I did however get some limited edition t-shirts printed with the EP artwork on to sell at my first headline show last October which have practically sold out now.
How did fans respond to the vinyl release?
I have had nothing but positive feedback from the vinyl release, anyone who sees the artwork is blown away and the vinyl has boosted that!
Would you recommend other bands to participate in PRS Flash Funding?
I would definitely recommend other bands and artists to participate in PRS Flash Funding competitions, I have been overwhelmed by how much positivity and support has come from it. I would never have been able to get this EP pressed on vinyl if it wasn't for PRS Flash Funding and it was something I was determined to do. Especially as the artwork is so important to the body of work. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity!
What have you been up lately?
I have just released my newest single 'RUN' on all streaming platforms. There are also two new singles in the pipeline produced by someone very special! I also plan to do a lot more shows this year and work with some amazing people to create visuals for these tracks!
Join us again this year at The Great Escape for another Flash Funding Live Panel with Julie Weir (Music For Nations/Sony), Jamz Supernova (Presenter, BBC Radio 1Xtra), Anton Newcombe (Artist, The Brian Jonestown Massacre), David Bianchi (CEO, Various Artists Management), Claire Alliot (A&R Manager, Stellar Song Publishing / TW9 Management) and Chaired by Joe Frankland (Senior Grants & Programmes Manager, PRS Foundation).