MasterCard, a global pioneer in payment innovation and technology, has launched its Web3-based MasterCard Artist Accelerator program that will connect select artists across the globe with notable mentors and a dynamic fanbase that’ll see them learn and create in Web3.
The program will commence in spring this year with five artists including musicians, DJs and producers. They’ll be given the tools, skills and access to get creative and pave their own musical paths in the growing digital economy.
Raja Rajamannar, Mastercard’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, said “Music is a universal passion, inspiring us, moving us, and bringing us together; however, it can feel impossible for budding artists to break in. With the Mastercard Artist Accelerator, we are expanding access and driving connections further with cutting-edge Web3 technology. Our vision is to bridge passion and purpose, spotlighting amazing emerging artists and creating an interactive community that allows participants to learn, experiment and grow together.”
These select artists will also gain exclusive access to special events, new music releases and a first-of-its-kind curriculum that’ll teach them how to build and own their brand using Web3 experiences like representing themselves in a virtual world, establishing an engaged community and minting NFTs.
“Web3 has the potential to empower a new type of artist that can grow a fanbase, make a living, and introduce novel mediums for self-expression and connection on their own terms,” said Ryan Wyatt, CEO of Polygon Studios. “The Mastercard Artist Accelerator not only shows the power of brands embracing this new space, it provides tools that can educate consumers on how to participate. This is an important step forward in opening up the benefits of Web3 to more people.”
Although it’s designed as a space for select creators to come together and grow their music communities, MasterCard’s Artist Accelerator program will also invite fans to partake in the program with a MasterCard Music Pass, a limited edition NFT that holders can use to access the exclusive Web3 x Music education materials and other unique resources that’ll allow them to learn alongside the artists.
Maggie Crowe, Director of Events & Charities at the BPI commented: “The BRIT Awards celebrates 25 years with Mastercard and in turn that support helps fund the free education offered at the BRIT School in London. This unique partnership with Mastercard has helped to inspire the next generation of musicians, develop and mentor talent, and curate opportunities to showcase their creativity to wider audiences and the professional music industry. Mastercard’s Artist Accelerator is a natural extension of this work and will offer musicians the means to develop their skills and connect with fans on new digital platforms, using Web3 technologies.”
And while the nascent space has the capability to create a new dimension for music content creation, Web3 is yet to reach its full potential.
The Artist Accelerator program will kick off later this year with a livestreamed artist showcase.
Isa Muhammad is a writer and video game journalist covering many aspects of entertainment media including the film industry. He's steadily writing his way to the sharp end of journalism and enjoys staying informed. If he's not reading, playing video games or catching up on his favourite TV series, then he's probably writing about them.
