Hilltop Hoods Initiative returns with $10K on offer

Now in its twelfth year, Australian hip-hop act Hilltop Hoods are inviting local emerging hip-hop and soul artists to apply for the 2017 Hilltop Hoods Initiative to help build their careers.

Supported by APRA AMCOS, the winning artist will receive a grant of $10,000 to cover costs associated with manufacturing, promoting and distributing an album or EP. The money is also intended to be used for mastering, publicity, vinyl manufacture and artwork expenses.

However, the Initiative is only open to APRA AMCOS members who have not signed to a label and/or released a commercial album.

The cash incentive will be awarded to the winning artist along with a merch start-up kit courtesy of Love Police ATM, as well as legal advice from David Vodicka and Media Arts Lawyers.

“We couldn’t be more excited about this year’s Initiative,” said Hilltop Hoods’ Suffa MC.

Previous winners of the Initiative have included last year’s victor Astro Travellers, as well as Sarah Connor, Jimblah, Chelsea Jane, I AM D and RUNFORYOURLIFE.

“We were so impressed with a previous recipient, I AM D, that we distributed his EP ‘M.N.T.N.S’ through our label Golden Era Records. This year is extra exciting as we’re bringing a new judge on board, Sose Fuamoli of the The AU Review. We can’t wait to see what this year’s Initiative brings.”

Along with Fuamoli, the entries will be judged by a panel comprising some of the most respected figures in Australian hip-hop including triple j presenter Hau (ACT), grafitti artist and promoter Nish (SA), manager and booking agent Ran-Dee (NSW), clothing label owner Raph (Vic), and MC & beatboxer Tom Thum/Tommy Illfigga (QLD).

Applications for the Hilltop Hoods Initiative will close on Tuesday March 21, with the winner being announced on Thursday May 11.