The Audio Affect Series 2025: Applications Open
The wait is over. Applications for the Audio Affect Series 2025 are officially open now closed.
The Audio Affect Series is back for 2025, and this time, we’re turning the volume all the way up. This is your chance to lock in for an immersive, in-studio, three-day workshop, designed for producers who are serious about leveling up.
You’ll be learning from a powerhouse lineup of industry legends — including 5x GRAMMY-winning producer DJ Khalil (Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, Kanye West), funk pioneer DāM FunK, 2x GRAMMY-winning artist-producer Iman Omari (Mac Miller, Doja Cat, Kendrick Lamar) and many more.
The in-person workshops will take place at Volume Studios, Inglewood, South LA from July 25-27.
If you’re an intermediate or advanced producer ready to sharpen your sound design, master the art of sampling, and get real-world insights you won’t find on YouTube, this is your moment. Step into the studio, build with industry heavyweights, and push your creativity to new heights.
Applications are now closed. Claim your spot at the Audio Affect Series 2025.
What is the Audio Affect Series?
With the aim of empowering Black and Brown artists in South Los Angeles, the Audio Affect Series offers producers a deep dive into music production and learn the skills needed to develop a sustainable career in the music industry from some of their favorite artists.
The Audio Affect Series – a TEC Leimert, Serato, and Undefeated partnership – launched its first workshops in 2023 and culminated with the 2024 release of The Audio Affect Series Beat Tape, which featured 12 beats from 12 Audio Affect alumni producers. The Beat Tape celebrated a new generation of local talent ready to take the intersection of music technology and culture to the next level. The Audio Affect Series Beat Tape was released as a limited edition 12” vinyl record—a special collector’s item.
What You’ll Learn
We’re keeping some details under wraps (for now), but here’s a taste of what’s in store:
- Day 1: Reimagining the past and inspiring the future through the art of sampling.
- Day 2: Discovering a sense of identity through sound design, the perfect mix and personal branding.
- Day 3: Understanding creative processes, control and the different career paths available for artists, DJs and producers.
Why You Should Apply
- Learn from legends. A start studded list of top industry heavyweights will be in the room including DJ Khalil, Iman Omari, Amber Navran, DāM FunK and more, giving you direct access to their experience and creative process.
- World-class curriculum. Powered by 1500 Sound Academy, this year’s curriculum is built by producers and songwriters behind some of the biggest records in music. From chart-topping hits to GRAMMY wins, their approach goes way beyond the studio — providing you with an insider game you won’t find anywhere else.
- Hands-on experience. Elevate your skills with the full Serato Producer Suite. Learn Serato Studio, Hex FX, and Sample through live demonstrations and step-by-step breakdowns from the pros.
- Be heard. Submit your best beats for a chance to feature on the Audio Affect Series Beat Tape, Volume 2 — dropping February 2026. This is your shot at official recognition, connecting with a global audience, and adding a serious credential to your portfolio.
- Keynotes & Interviews. Hear directly from the sharpest minds in music through deep-dive keynotes and live interviews that pull back the curtain on creative success.
- Grow your network. It takes a village to build something powerful, and TEC Leimert knows the strength of our community lies in its homegrown, diverse talent. From music technologists to mentors, Audio Affect brings together producers, artists, and innovators to amplify voices, strengthen the creative economy, and cultivate a more collaborative and forward-thinking ecosystem.
Inside Volume Studios: South LA’s Creative Powerhouse
Step into Volume Studios, a state-of-the-art creative powerhouse in Inglewood, South LA. It’s a playground for producers, songwriters, and artists pushing culture forward. Stacked with top-tier equipment and built for inspiration, this is your space to create greatness.
Introducing the Host & Mentors
The Audio Affect Series is all about learning directly from the best. Connect with artists who’ve shaped sounds from the underground to the mainstream – and they’re coming to share their knowledge with you.
Tru Sound – Host/MC
Belizean-American artist, actor, and composer from Leimert Park, CA, whose work spans theatre, sound, visual art, and performance. A CalArts alum and product of LA’s underground, he’s composed for Netflix, DreamWorks, and exhibited at MOCA and SoLA Contemporary. Through his interdisciplinary project DXTRTY, Tru Sound explores experimental storytelling rooted in Black futurism.
Dahi
The GRAMMY-winning producer is a singer, songwriter and DJ from Inglewood, California. Known for his work with Kendrick Lamar, he’s also produced for SZA, Dr. Dre, Travis Scott and Big Sean.
Linafornia
Leimert Park producer and DJ mixing soul, hip-hop, reggae, and experimental beats. A staple in LA’s underground scene, she made history as the first Black woman to hold a DJ residency at Low End Theory. With projects like her debut YUNG and the upcoming Lavender, Linafornia continues to carve out a genre-blurring sound that’s all her own.
Dibia$e
Producer, beat maker and instrumentalist currently based in Sacramento, California. A prominent figure in LA’s lauded beat scene, the Watts native is known for his distinctive, gritty lofi sound and his affinity for Roland’s SP-303 and SP-404 samplers.
Dope Candi
A producer, DJ, and music educator known for her melodic and genre-defying approach. Specializing in Hip-Hop, R&B, and alternative music, Dope Candi creates a unique soundscape that bridges classic sensibilities with modern innovation.
DāM FunK
Pasadena born and raised and founder of Glydezone Radio. The modern funk ambassador whose signature grooves have rocked stages worldwide and graced records with legends like Snoop Dogg, DJ Battlecat Tyler, The Creator and Q-Tip. His approach? Keep it soulful, keep it real, and always keep the funk alive.
DJ Khalil
The GRAMMY-winning producer and sonic architect behind tracks for Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, Nipsey Hussle and Aloe Blacc, DJ Khalil blends hard-hitting beats with undeniable musicality. He’s known for bridging raw emotion with polished production with a sound that has shaped albums that defined eras.
Iman Omari
Born and raised in LA, 2x GRAMMY Award-winning producer, singer, songwriter, and DJ, Iman Omari floats between coasts and frequencies. His sound blends soulful textures with experimental edges. Known for collaborations with Kendrick Lamar, Ty Dolla $ign, and Mac Miller — and for cult classics like Energy EP, and IHY LP.
Sarah2ill
A composer, producer, and creative powerhouse, Sarah2ill is a go-to voice in the music tech and production communities. Known for her energetic, down-to-earth content and sharp production chops, she’s built a loyal audience with over 16 billion YouTube views.
Oh Gosh Leotus
A San Bernardino-based producer, engineer, songwriter, and sound designer, quickly becoming a staple in the Inland Empire’s hip-hop scene. Leotus is known for blending hard-hitting drums with rich textures. His work has led to collaborations with Doechii, SZA, Chloe Bailey, LaToya G-Eazy, Rich The Kid, and many more.
Amber Navran
Producer, vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and one-third of neo-soul trailblazers Moonchild, Amber Navran brings a deep musicality to everything she touches. Known for woodwind textures, warm harmonies, and intricate soundscapes so incredible, we included them in Serato Hex FX.
Lyric Jones
A true multi-hyphenate, Lyric Jones brings sharp lyricism, soulful vocals, and versatile artistry to every session. Having participated in the Audio Affect Series last year, she’s back to continue the mission. Lyric has rocked stages with icons like Rakim and Big Daddy Kane while carving out her own lane in the global scene.
Meet the Beat Tape Curator
Those who attend the 3-day workshop have a chance to be featured on the Audio Affect Series Beat Tape, Volume 2 — dropping February 2026. This year’s selections will be personally curated by none other than DJ Battlecat.
DJ Battlecat
Legend. Pioneer. West Coast architect. DJ Battlecat’s signature sound helped define the G-funk era—lush synths, deep basslines, and soul-drenched rhythms. He rose from battle DJ roots to become a trusted producer for icons like Snoop Dogg, Xzibit, Kurupt, and Tha Eastsidaz. His sound both shaped and reflected that golden age of West Coast rap. With standout credits on Paid tha Cost to Be da Boss, Doggumentary, and Weapons of Mass Destruction, his legacy is cemented in hip-hop history.
Apply Today
If you’re serious about pushing your sound, building your network, and learning directly from the culture’s finest, the time to move is now.
Spots are limited. Apply today and secure your place. Applications close June 15.
Stay tuned for additional mentor announcements, behind-the-scenes looks, and more surprises as we gear up for an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for the Audio Affect Series 2025?
Intermediate to advanced producers ready to take their skills and careers to the next level.
2. How long is the workshop?
It’s a three-day immersive experience, happening July 25–27, 2025.
3. Where is the workshop located?
At the iconic Volume Studios in Inglewood, South LA – a state-of-the-art creative space.
4. What’s included in the workshop?
Mentor sessions, Serato Producer Suite access, live demos, career insights, and a shot at the official Audio Affect Series Beat Tape.
5. How do I apply?
Simple. Hit the application link, fill out your details, and submit your work for consideration. Spots are limited!