In the wake of the second Trump administration, many are talking about the so-called tech coup – in other words, the takeover of structures by big players such as Apple, Google, Meta, Amazon, Oracle and, of course, Elon Musk. A development of data capitalism that is as spooky as it is logical. It is no coincidence that the overarching theme of AI is simultaneously haunting all media.

This poses even greater structural challenges for us cultural professionals, especially independent artists. Can these still be achieved? Are musicians still welcome? The same applies to art, design, lyrics, etc., of course.

Keywords such as monetization, visibility, authorship, but especially content are suspiciously on the brink.

The term user-generated content could soon apply to everything we do on the platforms, formats, streams and markets that define us. Whether we like it or not? Or will we be overrun by a completely apolitical, soulless wave and perhaps soon forgotten? Simply filed away in the canon of a fading history of cultural activity, too annoying, small-scale, demanding, lamenting for the great power? Or is Europe our salvation and art our future? Maybe that too, and we are already meeting at punk concerts, improvisations, jazz, folk concerts... It seems to be bubbling everywhere. How do we use our opportunities?

The two Berlin-based music-makers Henrietta Bauer and Daniel Meteo invite you to a workshop between fear and hope, poems and data.

The New Talent program takes place in cooperation with popNRW and VUT West.