Vinyl crowdfunding at qrates.com/projects/27088-beat-queens-season-01

Beat Queens is a compilation of instrumental tracks, representing female talent from all over the world. It’s meant to raise awareness on the lack of visibility of female beatmakers, which is related to the lack of representation of women in the music industry as a whole. As well as to contribute to a much-needed change, regarding a more equal representation.

The Beat Queens idea (initially a playlist we curate on all major DSPs) started when we worked on a qualitative research/publication we did in 2021 (www.stereofox.com/articles/women-in-music-female-producers-challenges).

Besides showcasing female talent on the music side, the visuals were also created by female artists. In addition, to address the gender pay gap, which is another serious issue, occurring well beyond the music industry, Stereofox symbolically reduces its label cut to 20%, with 80% going straight to the producers. Lastly, any profits from the vinyl campaign will be donated to charity (collectively chosen by the producers), supporting an organisation that helps female creators grow and thrive.

This is more than a compilation. It’s a focus on each individual story. That’s why we did custom-made avatar for each creator over the course of 4 months in the preparation for season 1.

[ About the Producers]

Beat Queens brings together 14 creators from 4 continents (Asia, Europe, South and North America) and 9 countries. Apart from producers/beat-makers, the artists on the compilation are often instrumentalists, singer/songwriters and sound engineers. Some of them are already established names in the scene, others are still rising and developing their sound. The common thing between all of them is their love for music-making and their determination and perseverance, turning them not only into successful artists but also into inspiring role models for other female creators.

[ About the Tracks]

The compilation includes a big variety of beats, focusing, yet not being limited to lofi. From laid-back, introspective feels (“Sunrise”, “Sadness”, “First Frost”), moving guitar-driven tunes (“Hers”, “Synchronicity”, “What Happens If We Let Go”) and urban vibes (“Ce Soir Ou Jamais”, “Pedestrianstrut”, “Cosmos Alley”) to jazz-flavoured gems (“Orange Walk”, “Little Peace”, “Missed Call”) and upbeat sound (“Be Kind”).

Almost all tracks feature live-played instruments such as guitar, keys, ukulele, bass, percussion, saxophone, harp. Needless to say, this enhances their character, adding a warm, authentic flavour to the compositions. Each track carries the unique signature of the producer who made it, enriching the overall sound of the compilation. Besides showcasing the talent of the artists, it represents their desire to push their own boundaries and challenge themselves, constantly honing their craft, while exploring new territories. This ultimately turns Beat Queens into a real celebration of creativity, unity and free spirit!