When we say we are building real pathways into the music industry, we mean it.

In early 2024, Lucy Bridge became the first Music Industry Intern through our partnership with Warner Music UK. The programme is designed to open up access and opportunity for early-career creatives in the North East.

Over six months, Lucy split her time between Newcastle and London, gaining hands-on experience across ten major departments including A&R, publishing, sync, artist relations, and PR. She did not just shadow teams. She contributed. Lucy brought North East artists into Warner’s A&R meetings and shared real insight into the region’s music scene.

“Being part of the Generator x Warner Music internship helped me see a future in music that felt real and reachable. It gave me the tools and the confidence to keep going.” – Lucy Bridge

What made it different

Lucy is from North Shields. She did not have to uproot her life or relocate to London to get noticed. This internship gave her the chance to gain meaningful industry experience while staying connected to her community. That kind of place-based access is rare in the music industry and essential if we want to make it fairer.

She was not just making tea or taking notes. From presenting emerging North East talent at A&R meetings to sitting in on label strategy sessions, Lucy had a front-row seat to how a major label works. More than that, she was part of it. The responsibility was real, and so was the experience.

The internship also gave her momentum. It confirmed that A&R, sync, and artist development are where her strengths lie. And thanks to the people she met during the placement, Lucy now has a network of mentors and professionals who recognise her value and support her career.

Since the internship

Lucy played a leading role in delivering Newcastle’s MOBO Fringe programme, helping to curate a diverse and representative line-up that reflected the city’s talent. She has also been central to Generator’s own community events, continuing to advocate for underrepresented voices in music.

She is now working full-time at Atlantic Records as an Audience Assistant, a role that builds on everything she learned during the internship. And she is still championing local artists through House Folk, the North Shields-based live promotions company she co-founded.

Why it matters

Talent should not have to leave the North to succeed. Lucy’s story shows what is possible when the industry meets people where they are and gives them the support they need to thrive.

This is not about giving chances for the sake of it. It is about building a music industry that reflects the full range of talent and geography in the UK. That is the future we are working towards.