PPL (originally founded as Phonographic Performance Limited by EMI and Decca 1934) is the music licensing organisation for the UK music industry, working on the behalf of performers and record labels. Put simply, it licenses recorded music whenever it is played in public or on the radio and then makes sure that the people who created it get paid fairly for their work. It is a 300-strong company based in Soho, many of whom are musicians and DJs and some even run labels and club nights in their spare time. Here is PPL’s PR and marketing team’s top tracks to look out for over the next year.
Patience (Freestyle) - Ray BLK
Selected by Issy Alvarez, marketing and communications executive. “I really love soul, RnB and rap music and think Ray BLK does all three so well. I don’t think there’s a song of hers I haven’t liked yet.”
Like You Wanna - Dan Kye
Selected by Meredith Berman, digital marketing executive. “This is my hotly tipped track for 2017. For me, any release on the label Rhythm Section International is a winner. I still haven’t been to Bradley Zero’s night in Peckham, but that’s definitely on the agenda for this year. Rhythm in music is most important and everything released on his label encompasses just that.”
Rest - Sacred Paws
Selected by Clive Drew, senior PR officer. “They sound like The Slits dueting with The B-52s, set to an Afrobeat rhythm. Catch them live at Café OTO in Dalston on 29th January.”
Twist Your Arm - Ten Fé
Selected by Mitika Mistry, brand communications manager. “I think Ten Fé are set for big things in 2017. I love the synth, ethereal melodies.”
‘Not Nearly Dark’ - Ciaran Lavery
Selected by Lynne McDowell, head of communications .“One to watch in 2017 is Ciaran Lavery – the best thing to come out of Ireland since soda bread. His latest album, ‘Let Bad In’, is packed with clever lyrics and soothing vocals but my track of choice is ‘Shame’ from his ‘Not Nearly Dark’ release.”
Rooting for You - London Grammar
Selected by Jonathan Morrish, PR consultant. “The melody is wistfully haunting… beautifully sung to an inspiring finale. An awesome song to start the year.”
Artists on the Defected label
Selected by Laura Phillips, strategic marketing lead.“For house hedonism, check out the artists on the Defected label. Watch out for Dario D’Attis in 2017.”
Anything track from the just-released new Run The Jewels album – ‘RTJ3’lbum
Selected by Sarah Wall, events manager. “This is a fierce and vital release, showcasing the rage felt in the USA right now. Listen to it.”
To find out more about PPL head to www.ppluk.com
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