Hilltop Hoods have once again partnered with Australian performers’ rights organisation APRA to announce the return of their HTH Initiative, which awards an emerging Australian hip-hop or soul artist a $10,000 grant to help them manufacture, release, and market their debut album.

In addition to the considerable grant, the winner of the 2015 HTH Initiative will once again receive legal advice from Media Arts Lawyers and a Zoo York prize pack. Entries open on 20th January 2015, though not all up-and-coming artists are eligible to enter.

The competition, which was previously open only to South Australian residents but has been national since 2009, accepts hip-hop/soul artists or groups of any age who have not previously released an album professionally and who are members of APRA AMCOS.

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The grant goes to covering the mastering, CD artwork/design, marketing and promotional materials, manufacturing, and postal and administrative costs associated directly with the winner’s debut album, but does not cover the costs of recording, merchandising, and equipment purchases.

Entrants will be judged by a panel of influential Australian hip-hop figures and artists, including Koolism’s Hau, graffiti artist and Indigenous community worker Nish, promoter and booking agent Ran-Dee, Blank Clothing owner Raph, and Tommy Illfigga, one of the world’s best beat boxers.

Previous year’s winners include Chelsea Jane, Jimblah, Subsketch, General Knowledge, I AM D, and RUNFORYOURLIFE. Further details are available on the official APRA AMCOS website, with further information expected to be released in the New Year, including entry closure.

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