Music Resident

Romaine Smith

As a recording and gigging musician with over seven years of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the struggles emerging artists face…

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As a recording and gigging musician with over seven years of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the struggles emerging artists face in gaining visibility and connecting with their ideal audiences. This inspired me to create Haystack, a mobile app that revolutionises how local music communities discover and support emerging talent.
Having experienced the frustration of being an undiscovered artist with an extent of creative potential, I’m passionate about democratising access to the arts and breaking down traditional barriers in the music industry. Haystack isn’t just another music app – it’s a catalyst for cultural exchange that empowers artists, venues, and music enthusiasts to create self-sustaining local music scenes.
Through data-driven insights and innovative matching algorithms, Haystack helps artists find their audience, enables music lovers to discover their next favourite act, and assists venues in curating well-attended shows whilst being sensitive to the taste of their local community. My vision extends beyond mere entertainment; I aim to transform how communities engage with their local artistic talent, fostering collaboration and cultural enrichment.
With the live music market projected to reach £3.8 billion by 2028, Haystack is perfectly positioned to reshape the grassroots music sector while inducing meaningful social impact within local communities.