LONDON, UK — This May, THE CHART will debut in London with two live music events that span various genres, aimed at showcasing emerging talent and fostering a sense of community through music. Designed to connect audiences across different cultures and backgrounds, THE CHART is a concert series dedicated to amplifying new voices and promoting meaningful connections.
With a mission to uplift underrepresented artists and cultivate an inclusive music culture, THE CHART invites who wants to feel part of something to enjoy two unforgettable nights of live performance.
Event Line-Up:
- May 5 – Rock & Folk Night at Folklore Hoxton-Featuring powerful performances by: Beckon, Chuck SJ, and Zara Smile
- May 13 – Electro-Pop Night at Paper Dress Vintage– a vibrant lineup including: Sofia Gillani, Nox, and Maphe
Presented by Twentynine Six Events, Watchmegrowin’ Mgt, and Queenz Sounds Charity, THE CHART champions creativity, care, and collaboration in music—bridging communities and genres alike.
I spoke to Mei of Watchmegrowin’ Mgt and Ile from Twentynine Six events to find out more about the project.
Can you tell us a little bit about how the idea for THE CHART first came about?
Mei: The idea of having a safe space for queer people to meet up and listen to music is something that I always craved in the place I was born and grew up, which is Sardinia. I’m also an old fan of The L Word, and The Chart represented all the “romantic” and “sexual” connections that were happening within the lesbian community in Los Angeles. THE CHART London edition takes the concept of connections but within music lovers, within different cultures and people’s backgrounds, aiming to feel closer to our community and with each other.
What do you feel makes THE CHART different from other live music events happening in London right now?
Mei and Ile: We love curating and organizing the events and put so much effort into promoting them to make sure there is always an amazing crowd there for the artists, and the people attending are truly the best and the most attentive audience! We also prioritize clear communication with the artists, believing it’s crucial for a successful show! We’re grateful to be part of a supportive scene with other fantastic live music events in London, such as Peachyy, Burnt Toast Presents, and more!
You’re showcasing a real mix of genres across the two nights — why was it important to you to have that kind of variety?
Mei: We are at the first edition of this project, and the mix of genres also represents the variety within our community. Not all queers listen to Chappell Roan? Maybe.
How did you go about selecting the artists for these first two events?
Ile: I’m in touch with loads of artists from my previous call outs, whose journeys I’ve been following for a while, and I’m really happy to finally work with some! Also, Queenz Sounds Charity represents many artists worldwide, and we’ve teamed up with a few. Plus, Mei had some artists in mind too, and together we’ve got a genuinely great mix of performers.
What can audiences expect from each night — anything special you’d like them to know?
Ile: The first night at Folklore will be filled with mind-blowing instrumental and vocal performances. Then, on the 13th at Paper Dress Vintage, get ready to dance and enjoy some high-energy vibes! For both events, I’m curating a playlist of amazing emerging songs, so if you’re an artist reading this and want your track included, DM me on Instagram and mention you saw this here! 🙂
Community seems to be a big part of THE CHART’s ethos — what does “community through music” mean to you personally?
Mei: There is nothing more important than having a community around us. The latest decision of the Supreme Court against the trans community and all the types of oppression that have intensified in the last few years towards the most vulnerable people mean that, now more than ever, we need to stand together. And music plays an important part in my life, and I believe for others too.
You’ve teamed up with Twentynine Six Events, and Queenz Sounds Charity — how did those collaborations come together?
Mei: The collaboration with Ilenia from Twentynine Six Events happened organically through shared values and connections within the community. I met her at one of her events last year and immediately fell in love with the vibes, the attention to detail, and the crowd. It felt perfect and natural to join forces for the realisation of THE CHART. As for Queenz Sounds, I discovered this Live Music Charity during my usual search for organizations supporting our community. I felt instantly enthusiastic about their initiative, how they present themselves, and the values they share—particularly their support of such a diverse roster of artists. It is rare to find people like them.
Looking ahead, what’s your dream for the future of THE CHART? Are there more events in the pipeline?
Mei & Ile: THE CHART aims to grow, but especially aims to create meaningful connections not only through music, but among everyone who shares our values of community, solidarity, and entertainment. We are doing our best to make sure that this message is clear in everything we do. We want to improve ourselves to make sure every party involved in the process of our events feels this sense of belonging and genuine connection. This means constantly listening to feedback, adapting our approach, and remaining true to our core values. This is why we’re welcoming more creatives and music lovers to our WhatsApp community, and we really hope THE CHART will one day pop up in other UK cities, and hey, maybe even Europe!
If you could describe THE CHART in three words, what would they be?
Ile: Support, fun, connections
Finally, why should people come and be part of these first two events?
Ile: If you have read the whole interview you know enough about THE CHART- all that’s left to say is that the first show is on a Monday (May 5th), and the second one on a Tuesday (May 13th), so I guess it’s a great way to kick off your week with something cool! 😉
Tickets for Electro/Pop at Paper Dress Vintage
Interview by Hayley Foster da Silva
Photo of Mei and Ile by Roberta Barzaghi
Keep up to date with all new content on Joyzine via our
Facebook | Bluesky | Instagram | Threads | Mailing List