Founded in 1914, PRS for Music was built to secure a sustainable future for songwriters, composers and publishers. For more than 110 years, the organisation has protected music creators’ rights and championed the value of their work. Today, PRS for Music ensures songwriters and composers get paid when their music is played, performed, or streamed worldwide, and continues to embrace innovation while securing the future of music on behalf of the 190,000 members it has the privilege to represent. 

In 2025, PRS for Music paid out £1.07 billion in royalties and collected £1.24 billion in revenues. www.prsformusic.com 

Astles (he/him) - Joe, Are You Listening?

LIMF Academy, North West

Astles is a Southport-based songwriter whose honest, reflective songwriting has made him a respected voice in the Liverpool music scene. He has toured widely and released his acclaimed debut album ‘Soundtrack for the 21 Bus Home’ in 2024. Drawing on family, memory and place, Astles creates deeply personal music, including songs inspired by the life and legacy of his late uncle, Joe, whose influence continues to shape his work.

KOJ (he/him) - SINterlude

LIMF Academy, North West

KOJ is a Liverpool rapper whose powerful blend of grime, rap and punk has made him one of the city’s most exciting emerging voices. Known for his raw storytelling, social commentary and emotionally honest lyricism, he creates music that speaks to the realities of modern Britain. Supported by BBC Radio 1Xtra, Spotify, Apple Music and major music publications, KOJ’s acclaimed debut EP ‘Villain With A Conscience’ established him as an artist unafraid to challenge, connect and inspire through his music.

M. Yesekaon (he/him) - Dystopia

Youth Music NextGen Fund, Wales

M. Yesekaon is a rapper, writer and producer from Colwyn Bay, North Wales, whose thoughtful lyricism blends sharp storytelling with social observation. A Youth Music NextGen Fund recipient, Forté Project artist and founder of the Underground Artist Movement, he is helping build new opportunities for hip-hop artists across North Wales. His track “Dystopia” captures the uncertainty of a changing world, using honest, reflective writing to explore identity, community and the social issues shaping young people’s lives.

simon a. (he/him) - I Hope It Lasts Forever

Youth Music NextGen Fund, London

East London artist simon a.’s genre-blending music combines soulful melodies, sharp lyricism and powerful storytelling. Drawing on themes of identity, creativity and self-worth, he creates thoughtful, emotionally resonant work that connects deeply with listeners. Supported by platforms including COLORSxSTUDIOS, BBC Introducing and GUAP, Simon has built a reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting emerging voices. His mixtape ‘I CAN’T SELL THIS’ explores the value of art in the streaming era, pairing personal reflection with bold creative ambition.

Sunkissed Child (she/her) - Yasmina, Like the Flower

Youth Music NextGen Fund, London

Sunkissed Child is the musical project of Beirut-born, London-based artist Yasmina Nahas, whose rich blend of alternative R&B, indie soul, UK jazz and Middle Eastern influences has earned support from BBC Radio 6 Music, CLASH and Spotify Editorial. Through deeply personal songwriting and multilingual storytelling, she explores identity, belonging and connection. A vital voice in the UK’s underground jazz and R&B scene, Sunkissed Child creates music that resonates with anyone searching for home, understanding and self-expression.