Lleo warns young singers: bedroom studios can be dangerous

In the UK, musicians like Raye and Madi Saskia are shedding light on the vulnerabilities faced by artists, especially women, in home recording environments commonly referred to as 'bedroom studios'. Both artists detailed experiences that made them feel unsafe when starting their careers, highlighting a pressing issue in the music industry. Raye recounted her traumatic encounter at the age of 17, during which a music producer lured her for a recording session and assaulted her instead. This experience has had long-lasting implications for her mental health and career. Raye, known for her hit song 'Ice Cream Man', which reflects on her experiences, has openly discussed her struggles with substance abuse following the assault. After revealing her story, she reportedly lost opportunities in the UK music scene and was forced to seek her career elsewhere. Many industry insiders expressed concern about her revelations, which have made labels hesitant to work with her. Madi Saskia provided further context, emphasizing the prevalence of such situations in the industry. She and Raye noted that independent artists often encounter compromised situations in informal studio settings where intentions may not be genuine. They voiced that these experiences contribute to a toxic environment for female artists who may feel pressured to endure inappropriate behavior to advance their careers. The broader implications of this dialogue bring attention to the need for a cultural shift within the music industry and advocate for safer working environments. Both artists are using their platforms to raise awareness of these issues and support other women who have faced similar adversities. By sharing their experiences, they hope to inspire change and empower others in the industry to speak out and seek protection against abuse.