MP chuka umunna

Chuka Umunna MP becomes PRS Foundation Ambassador

Chuka Umunna MP has become the latest ambassador to support and promote the work of the PRS for Music Foundation.

Anita Awbi
  • By Anita Awbi
  • 24 Aug 2016
  • min read
Chuka Umunna MP has become the latest ambassador to support and promote the work of the PRS for Music Foundation.

Umunna, the MP for Streatham, South London, joins fellow ambassadors Emily Eavis, Amplify Dot, Imogen Heap, Ghostpoet and Judith Weir.

The MP is known as a strong advocate and fan of the diverse new music created in the UK.

Earlier this year he opened the PRS for Music Presents event at the society’s Streatham offices, featuring performances from Ghostpoet, Andrew Ashong and Dr Meaker.

In his speech he praised the work of the foundation in supporting new music.

Umunna, upon becoming a PRS for Music Foundation Ambassador, said: ‘I’m excited to become an ambassador for the PRS for Music Foundation. Music has been such a big part of my life, and part of the fabric of our community.

‘I went to my first gig at the Electric in Brixton to see Soul II Soul in 1991. Brixton, was the birthplace of David Bowie, the inspiration for The Clash’s Guns of Brixton and Eddy Grant’s Electric Avenue, and a favourite jamming spot for Jimi Hendrix. Today, the bars and cafes along Streatham High Road regularly host new artists who are trying out new material and honing their craft.

‘Our community embraces our rich diversity and heritage to make it a melting pot of musical sounds and cultures from all corners of the globe. I look forward to supporting the excellent work of the PRS for Music Foundation to help support the next generation of musicians’ breakthrough.’

Vanessa Reed, executive director of the foundation, added: ‘We’re very excited to have Chuka as an ambassador for the foundation. As Chuka is very supportive of the UK’s music scene and is always ready to speak out on important issues such as diversity which are only just beginning to be fully acknowledged across the creative industries.

‘Chuka’s involvement as an ambassador will resonate with those who know about Chuka’s own passion for electronic music whilst helping us to champion both the creative and business impact of the diverse talent we’re funding. We’re grateful for his help and support.’

Find out more about the PRS for Music Foundation.