July 17, 2012

62 Artists From 29 Countries Chosen For 2012 Red Bull Music Academy In New York

I look back at my time editing BPM magazine and smile about a lot of things. Going to the Red Bull Music Academy in Cape Town, South Africa back in 2003 is high on the list. It was basically a musical wet dream. Going to kwaito clubs and township jams. Listening to the one and only Dr. Bob Moog talk, Steinski, Prince Paul, Sal Principato of Liquid Liquid fame, Plaid’s Ed Handley, Hugh Masekela. I spent two very awesome weeks attending lectures from an impressive range of musical luminaries. It was real, it was honest and if you have a creative vision, a passion for learning and sharing, enthusiasm for music across genres, and a truly global, open-minded outlook do what you can to attend.

Unfortunately it’s not in the cards for you this year as Red Bull Music Academy just announced the 62 participants selected to take part in its 15th yearly edition, which takes place in New York City from September 30 through November 2, 2012.

If you want to apply next year, the selection process is pretty extensive. And you’re literally competing against thousands of producers, instrumentalists and vocalists from all over the world for a spot. I heard this year applicants not only had to describe and send a sample of their music style but were also asked personality questions, ranging from the title of their autobiography to the menu they would cook for the first dinner with their in-laws to a Rorschach test with inkblots in the shape of New York City.

Here are a few videos from 2003 while I was there.