• An A&R is the person within a record label who is responsible for scouting and developing new talent. They are the linchpin between artists, labels, publishing and other aspects of the industry which work to make artistry into a product. An A&R oversees the recording process and assists with the marketing and promotion of the artist whilst nurturing and helping to develop the artist.

  • Parlay A&R Academy is a 6-month programme to develop 6 talented women in the music industry.

    We're looking for innovators who know a good thing when they hear it and understand what it takes to create a hit. We’re looking for tastemakers who aren’t afraid to push boundaries, who are organised and who have the ability to see through a project from start to finish. 

    You will have the opportunity to learn directly for some of the UK’s most renowned A&R’s, network with major labels and build on your own portfolio of work.

  • Parlay Records is a global record label that pushes talent to the forefront of the music industry - with recent releases including Big Zeeks ‘Fresh Prince of Harlesden’ album, Trillary Banks & Brixx ‘Meedy’ single, Boy Boy & Zebee ‘Big Yard’ single and T.Roadz ‘Faded’ single.

Punch are working with Parlay Records to develop a new wave of female A&R talent in Birmingham

We're looking for budding music industry professionals who know a good thing when they hear it and want to discover the next big artist. We’re looking for tastemakers who aren’t afraid to push boundaries, who are organised and who have the ability to see through a project from start to finish. 

This is a free programme to develop the careers of 6 women from Birmingham and the West Midlands. You will have the opportunity to learn directly for some of the UK’s most renowned A&R’s, network with major labels and build on your own portfolio of work.

Parlay A&R Academy begins in July 2025 with exclusive workshops, exciting music & networking events across the UK, the opportunity to work with Parlay Records on music releases, access to office space at Punch Records HQ, and so much more. In short, we’ll provide you with all you need to focus on building your skills & portfolio as an A&R.

Want to apply?

We will select 6 emerging music professionals to join Parlay A&R Academy. If you think that this programme is right for you - we welcome you to apply. Applications are now open and can be found at the top of this page.

If you would prefer to apply via video please email melanie@parlayrecords.co.uk, with a video of no longer than 5 minutes, answering each of these questions in the application form above.

Deadline to apply is Monday 7th July

REQUIREMENTS

• You must be aged between 18 - 25
• You must identify as a woman 
• You must be based in Birmingham or the surrounding region

If you require additional support to complete the application please contact info@punch-records.co.uk or call Punch HQ on 0121 794 0244 between 10pm - 5pm on a weekday.