News : ReverbNation launches ‘Levels’ to support independent artists with finances and resources

ReverbNation has launched a new Levels programme, designed to help support the growth and development of independent artists.

Established as part of BandLab Technologies, ReverbNation helps artists create sustainable careers by providing them with deep industry expertise and access to music industry partners. It also helps independent talent reach new fans and provides them with the tools needed to harness more opportunities.

Now, the platform has announced Levels, a newly introduced programme that is designed to provide further support to those looking to grow their careers.

Accessible via invite-only, the new development looks to provide creatives with career-building resources, financial backing, and services personally tailored to their journey. Through this, ReverbNation will address one of the biggest challenges facing musicians today, thriving in a complex industry while still keeping the main focus on the music.

Through the programme, artists are offered more services and career support, and can access distribution, publishing, licencing, marketing, and sponsorships with more ease. Financial backing is also provided, helping to alleviate the strain that comes with creating and promoting new material.

Levels is split into five segments that each help independent talent. These include financial advances – such as upfront funding for recording, marketing, and other career needs – and exclusive partnerships that provide discounts on gear and sponsorship deals.

Tools for marketing and promotion are provided too, helping when it comes to playlist pitching, press outreach and advertising, as is a dedicated concierge service. The latter allows musicians to access one-on-one assistance from account managers and a curated industry network.

Finally, comprehensive distribution, publishing, and licensing aid is incorporated, meaning that independent artists can receive a direct path to connect with like-minded peers and various commercial opportunities.

“With ReverbNation Levels, we want to step up what real artist support looks like today,” said Meng Ru Kuok, CEO & Co-Founder of BandLab Technologies. “By combining financial support with personalised, white-glove services, we are empowering musicians to focus on their creativity and their music while setting them up for long-term success.

“The industry is evolving and every artist’s path is different. In the same way we encourage and support our artists in partnering with record labels and established industry institutions, we also recognise that some artists prefer to remain independent. This new programme helps to create a level playing field, providing those who seek more control, ownership, and creative freedom the tools and resources they need to succeed on their own terms.”

Artists interested in joining Levels can apply here. Once the applications are reviewed, successful participants can gain exclusive access to career development tools and hands-on guidance.

The support provided for independent artists through ReverbNation Levels comes amid grassroots talent in the UK facing an increasing number of hardships in recent years. Some of the toughest obstacles include the impact of Brexit on touring, the regulation of AI, the lack of money from streaming and the number of local venues being forced to permanently close their doors.

For the latter, the Music Venue Trust – who have reported the “complete collapse of touring” across the UK – have been pushing the UK government to implement a ticket levy on big shows. This would involve shows at arena-level and above paying back into the ecosystem to keep the talent pipeline flowing; similar to that seen in the Premier League.

The idea of a levy to help support grassroots talent and venues has so far been backed by Coldplay, Sam Fender and Katy Perry, who have each implemented it in their upcoming arena and stadium tours.

NME and ReverbNation are both part of Caldecott Music Group.