Serato, TEC Leimert, and UNDEFEATED announced the return of the Audio Affect Series, a workshop program aimed at developing the next generation of Black and Brown music talent in South Central Los Angeles.
Set to run July 25-27, the 2025 edition will be hosted at Volume Studios, the headquarters of 1500 Sound Academy in Inglewood. The workshop offers mentorship and hands-on experience with music production software and tools for 80 LA-based participants.
The event is backed by music technology company Serato, the nonprofit TEC Leimert, and streetwear label UNDEFEATED. The trio launched the program in 2023 with a focus on community access and creative empowerment.
This year’s mentors include five-time GRAMMY-winning producer DJ Khalil, funk artist DāM-FunK, two-time GRAMMY winner Iman Omari, GRAMMY-nominated musician Amber Navran of Moonchild, multi-instrumentalist Lyric Jones, content creator and producer Sarah2ill, and genre-blending producer Oh Gosh Leotus. Additional mentors and guest speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.
“The Audio Affect Series is offering innovative tools to help artists and producers learn about new audio software technology and how to sample creatively,” said DāM-FunK, an LA artist and TEC Leimert board member. “This is a great initiative to be a part of.”
Applications are open through June 6 at TEC Leimert’s website. The program is free, with space for 80 applicants.
The three-day workshop will include educational courses, beat-making sessions, and artist-led discussions. The daily itinerary features the following themes:
- Day 1: Sampling and honoring musical legacies
- Day 2: Sound design, branding, and mixing
- Day 3: Career development and creative independence
Participants will submit original beats for a chance to be featured on Beat Tape Vol. 2, a compilation project that will be distributed on streaming platforms, pressed to vinyl, and promoted across South LA.
“Los Angeles is a hub of creativity, and South LA in particular has a deep history of producing iconic artists,” said Sonny James, Serato’s artist relations manager. “By combining our resources, this workshop provides real opportunities for the community to take the next step in their creative careers.”
The Audio Affect Series integrates Serato’s music software tools—Serato Studio, Serato Sample, and Hex FX—with educational programming designed by 1500 Sound Academy.
More information and the application portal are available at TECLeimert.org.
