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Find your sound.

Direct mentorship from a working artist with active label and tour experience. We'll sharpen your sound, plan releases, build your network, and figure out what to do next – together.

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DJ performing at The Sound Lab artist development
What we cover

Sound, story, strategy.

Artist development isn't one course – it's an ongoing conversation. These are the kind of things we tackle, in whatever order makes sense for you.

01

Sonic identity

What you sound like, and what you want to sound like. Reference work, palette decisions and signature elements that make your tracks recognisable.

02

Release strategy

EPs vs singles, label-fit vs self-release, demo etiquette, contract basics and how to build an audience between drops.

03

Brand and visuals

Artist name, artwork direction, photography and social presence – getting the look to match the music without losing yourself in content creation.

04

Live and DJ presence

What to play, how to read a room, building a set that represents you, and getting on the right line-ups at the right moment.

05

Network and introductions

Direct introductions where it makes sense – labels, promoters, agents and peers. We open doors when you're ready to walk through them.

06

The boring-but-vital stuff

Splits, royalties, PRS, distribution and music-rights basics. Enough to stop you signing something you shouldn't.

Working artist, in the room

Your mentor.

Ben Elding — founder and lead mentor at The Sound Lab
Founder · Producer · Hypnotic Selectors / Shen / Pyramidal
Your mentor

Ben Elding

Ben's sound sits at the intersection of hypnotic grooves, intricate rhythms and emotive melodies – crafted to create a narrative that mirrors the intensity of the moment. Releases on respected labels including Shen have earned widespread recognition.

As a DJ, he's shared line-ups with globally respected artists including Sasha, John Digweed, Franky Wah, Maceo Plex, Cristoph, Nick Warren and Ivory – performing across the UK and internationally, including Ibiza.

Sessions and pricing

Long-term commitment.

Artist development isn't a one-shot. We work in blocks of 3, 6 or 12 months – monthly calls, async feedback in between, and clear milestones along the way. Get in touch and we'll talk through what fits.

  • 1-to-1 monthly mentorship calls
  • Async feedback on music, mixes and visuals
  • Direct introductions when you're ready
  • Milestone reviews every 3 months
Apply for mentorship
Common questions

FAQ

No – it's for anyone serious about a sustained career. You don't need releases yet. You do need finished music, a clear idea of the direction you want to take, and a willingness to do the work.

Yes, and it's often the most effective combination. Production or DJ sessions cover the craft; development covers everything around the music.

Usually 60 to 90 minutes on Zoom. We review what you shipped since the last call, work through any blockers, and set clear actions for the next period.

It means personal, warm introductions to people Ben knows – not a generic pitch to a contact list. We do this when your music is ready and there's a genuine fit.

Ready to
build a career?

Book a free 20-minute call. We'll assess where you are, what you want, and whether mentorship is the right fit.