We started in Mom’s Basement — just a laptop, a USB mic, and an idea.

Back in 2013, Underground Music Collective was born in a basement in New Jersey with a simple intention: highlighting the journeys of inspiring artists and creatives from around the world. What started as a podcast called The Quinn Spinn grew into something none of us saw coming.

Since then, we’ve connected with over 700,000 artists across 5 continents, collaborated at major industry events in 12 (now 13 as of May!) cities across North America and Europe, and had the privilege of speaking at SXSW, Departure Conference, NOLA MusiCon, Confluence Carolinas, and more.

Through UMC Academy, we deliver workshops, seminars, and one-on-one consultations covering artist development, branding, content creation, sync licensing, production, and tour routing.

We amplify those same creators through artist interviews, music reviews, and feature content that put independent artists front and center.

We’ve also partnered with organizations like NOLA MusiCon, Gussapolooza, and Creative Pulse (and many more) to expand educational and performance opportunities for working creatives.

For as long as there has been a music industry, creators haven’t had a proper seat at the table. We’re building our own.

Now we’re taking our biggest chance yet. We’ve partnered with City Limit Studios to bring the UMC Creator Lab to life in Nashville, Tennessee – a dedicated space where producers, artists, songwriters, and content creators can record, write, shoot, and collaborate. Need to lay down a track? Run a songwriting session? Shoot content or record a podcast? We’ve got you – at the most accessible rates in Nashville.

We have 60 days to raise $10,000. This is an all-or-nothing campaign, which means we only receive funding if we hit our goal. Every contribution goes toward renovating the Creator Lab and acquiring recording equipment (sound treatment, music production software, podcast gear), a content creation wall, team travel, and operating costs — hello, rent.

As a thank you for your support, we’ve put together rewards ranging from exclusive UMC Creator Lab merch to karaoke night with Gerard, VIP event backstage access, and even a shot at winning more prizes.* Check out the rewards below and be a part of our movement!

Throughout the 60 days, we’ll also be rolling out special activation events and milestone celebrations — including where contributors can win even more prizes along the way. Be sure to follow @umcworldwide and stay subscribed to our newsletter so you don’t miss a thing.

As the world becomes more automated and AI touches every corner of the music industry, creators are craving something real. Real collaboration. Real opportunity. Real community. UMC is here to build that space.

Back in the Mom’s Basement days, there was a sign hanging in the kitchen that read:“May you always have the courage to take a chance.”

Thirteen years later, we’re still taking chances. Follow along at @umcworldwide and join us – let’s build a space where Creators Have the Power. Thank you for watching this video and for your contribution!

— Gerard Longo, Founder & CEO, Underground Music Collective