Emerging Musicians Face Online Harassment and Support Deficiencies

Emerging musicians frequently experience online harassment, yet lack adequate support systems to manage its effects, according to a singer-songwriter. Madi Saskia, an RnB and soul artist based in Birmingham, reported receiving severe online comments following the release of a song drawing inspiration from a sexual assault experience. She stated, “There was just a lot of horrible things like: ‘If this situation is so bad, then just kill yourself’.” Ms. Saskia and fellow artist Lleo, who hails from Cheltenham, discussed with the charity Youth Music the mental health challenges frequently encountered by young musicians. Following these comments, Ms. Saskia indicated that she took down her song, For the Streets, from online platforms and streaming services. She acknowledged the detrimental impact of the abusive language, stating her resolve: “I’m going to make my art more impactful than what you’re doing.” Ms. Saskia mentioned being on a waiting list for therapy due to her inability to afford private sessions. She commented, “We’re struggling a lot and there’s not structures in place for us to thrive in the way that we probably would want to and need to, to keep the industry thriving.” Youth Music’s objective is to assist grassroots musicians in earning an income from music and to dismantle obstacles for communities that are underrepresented. In their conversation with BBC journalist Jameel Shariff, the artists additionally highlighted the societal taboo associated with holding external employment while pursuing careers in music. Lleo, who characterizes her music as “bipolar pop,” confessed to finding it difficult to disclose her need for other work, fearing it might diminish her artistic credibility. Despite Elton John having praised Lleo as “one of the most exciting new artists around” and her seemingly bright prospects, she asserted: “Musicians need support, they need money, they need advice and they need help that they’re not getting right now.” Ms. Saskia further stated that she encountered “uncomfortable vibes” during recording sessions in bedroom studios alongside “older gentlemen.” She recounted “so many bad experiences” and the necessity to “gauge intentions” when individuals around her harbored motives beyond musical creation. Madi concluded: “This journey that you put yourself on is nothing that you expect it to be.” For further updates from BBC Birmingham, connect via BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.