Universal Music Group expands Sounds of the Future to UK
Universal Music Group brought its Sounds of the Future initiative to the United Kingdom through its Global Impact Team during Black History Month, partnering with the Black Music Coalition to establish a two-year rotating internship program for emerging Black executives. The company unveiled Black Frequencies, an archival exhibition at its British offices curated by historian Dr. Aleema Gray, featuring recordings, photographs, and documents chronicling the evolution of Black music within Britain.
The launch included a screening at BAFTA’s Piccadilly venue, where BRIT School students presented four short films created from Universal’s video archive, accompanied by performances from Chineke! Orchestra members who interpreted works by Miss Dynamite, Soul II Soul, Courtney Pine, and Dina Carroll. Senior Director Sharlotte Ritchie stated the program demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting Black British artistry and developing equitable leadership across the industry.

