Palestine Music Expo (PMX)

Dear Friends

Firstly thanks so much for your incredible generosity in helping me to smash my fund-raising target.

I'm sad to say that after the recent dramatic escalation in tensions in the area, it was felt necessary to postpone PMX22 until it's safe to return and out on a PMX that's safe for all.

A report on this is here; https://www.hotpress.com/culture/palestino-music-expo-22-cancelled-after-violent-israeli-attack-22925865

We will of course post news on PMX's new dates when confirmed.

Many thanks

Stephen Budd

Ramallah, Palestine. September 14-17, 2022

Dear friends

Five years ago, a little group of UK music execs and Palestinian creatives started on a journey that would end up becoming a movement – one which would connect the music, creativity, and talent of Palestine, to the rest of the world. Thanks to many of you, the first Three editions of PMX have changed the lives of Palestinian musicians in a way we could never have imagined.

In 2020 and 2021, we and the rest of the world were forced to take a break. Covid-19 left the stages of the globe empty.

But we are back! Just like the rest of the world, we are picking up the mic and planning for PMX2022, to take place in Ramallah (Palestine) this September. 

Back, with the goal of introducing the international music industry to the wide range of amazing musical talent to be found in Palestine. PMX has made some valuable connections and, it is a truly unique experience;  a nightly musical journey for 1,500 young people to see live shows of many genres and many regions - from traditional Oud to Hip Hop and, a daytime journey experiencing some of Palestine's rich society, culture and, daily realities. In previous years, we have taken international music execs to Jerusalem, Hebron and Bethlehem. 

An important part of PMX is to enrich and strengthen the local scene in Palestine. We provide knowledge-sharing, connectivity and support for artists and music entrepreneurs. Our panels share industry insights and focused, 1-1 conversations  and workshops bring empowering knowledge and networking to everyone involved.  We are already seeing that these exchanges are really helping to create the momentum needed for the development of an authentic Palestinian music industry. The talent is there, from the mic to negotiating table - with your help we have amplified that and, we continue...

So far the PMXs have succeeded beyond our expectations:-

·        9 bands have been signed to record deals;

·        7 music industry internships have been offered and 6 have already taken place;

·        Festival bookers are booking increasing numbers of Palestinian artists programmed on international stages.

·        16 artists have been offered and have accepted international tour opportunities;

·        A studio in Bethlehem's Aida Refugee Camp has been supported by equipment donations from our partner organisation In Place of War .

·        Supported by our partners, including SACEM, we are lobbying for copyright law and infrastructural support for the ultimate goal; a sustainable music sector in Palestine. 

In September, we will again have 3 nights of  incredible music - and this year, we are also immersing guests in the local Dance and DJ scenes and supporting local venues. 

We do this with a tiny team, a lot of effort, our own funds and, invaluable supporters. We do need your help to make it happen. 

Please make a donation. to PMX and help to give Palestinian musicians a voice the world can enjoy.

So many thanks.  

Stephen Budd