17 artists shining a spotlight on Preston’s urban music scene

Montage of some of the Preston urban music artists involved in the project — Some of the artists involved, from top-left to bottom-right: Precious, Basra and MK, Seraph, Jamz, Gandom Rhy, Dozz, HBD

17 local artists are collaborating on a grime project designed to shine a spotlight on Preston’s urban music scene.

Led by rap/grime/RnB artist Ben Duong, the artists have been working together and sharing their passion for music for around two years.

They are now set to release a remix of an original song by Ben called Adaptive.

The artists involved are HBD, One Sec, Jamz, Skaz, Slik, Dozz, RO, MK, Basra, LB, Precious, Seraph, Gizmo, Parky, BLKY and Gandom Rhy – plus one big name on the local scene who is yet to be revealed.

The track was produced by Jamie Brennand at Locked In Recordings, while the video was filmed and edited by Tom Murphy at TMTV.

As well as bringing attention to the city, Ben says the collaboration is an attempt to create more unity.

Ben, whose stage name is Hennessy Benny D, said: “Preston has an incredibly talented urban scene that stems back to 2005, but it has always been held back with the feeling that we aren’t getting the exposure the talent deserves.

“There are a number of reasons as to why this is, but in my opinion one of the main ones is a lack of togetherness and unity.

“This is something that we all have to take blame for; with the internet being so accessible we’ve fallen into a routine of self promotion, but the issue is you’re limited to only your own following.

“This project is a great opportunity to come together and collectively push each other.”

The group is hoping that the release of the Adaptive Preston All Stars Remix will bring some recognition.

The track will be available on local YouTube channel TMTV PR on Sunday (25 December).

The Adaptive EP – which will feature the original song, the All Stars Remix, a remix from local producer LJ, and a drum and bass mix from Preston’s own Kemikz – will be available to stream on all major platforms in mid January.

Ben added: “Everything about this project screams Preston – from the artists to the production to the visuals and even the art work.

“Everyone involved in the project is incredibly proud of what we’ve done.”