I’d love to hear things that break away from the typical Flemish sound

Can you introduce yourself, and the organisation you work for? 

Eva: I’m Eva, a youth worker at Go Boom, a Ghent-based collective focused on bringing more FLINTA and queer people to the stage – and behind it! We aim to inspire young people to claim their space in the music industry but also to make some noise and explore their self-expression simply. For example, we organise summer camps where teenagers, even without prior musical experience, learn instruments, write songs, and form bands. We also run a clubhouse that’s open to everyone every Saturday.

Ward: I’m Ward and I work as a production manager at the Miry concert hall. About six months ago, I co-founded ANKER. with my friends Pieter-Jan Cools and Ramses Van den Eede. Together, we created a rehearsal space, a recording studio and a residency space where musicians and artists can develop their craft.

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We aim to give young artists a sustainable platform where they can create and grow freely

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Both your organisations aim to support the journey of young artists. What's the origin story? 

Eva: Go Boom does have a fun origin story. For her studies, founder Lindsi worked out a fictional concept where she would organise a series of punk concerts focused on women in the scene. Her lecturers told her it wasn’t realistic, which she took as a challenge – and that’s how Go Boom came to life.

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Ward: ANKER. also grew out of idealism. The three of us have been playing music for years and noticed a big gap between formal music education and actually breaking into the concert circuit. We wanted to bridge that gap. ANKER. focuses on semi-professionals and early-career artists who need support to take the next step. Whether providing an affordable rehearsal space or offering guidance throughout the creative process, we aim to give young artists a sustainable platform where they can create and grow freely. 

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You are now judges for the next edition of Zebrastraat’s showcase. What is that like and what will you look out for as judges? 

Ward: Different Class reached out because they wanted to involve fresh, young organisations in the jury – it’s exciting! For me, it’s all about an honest, unique sound. These days, anyone can produce a polished demo, so I’m less focused on that. Even a raw rehearsal recording can showcase passion and authenticity – if the sound is there, we’ll hear it, even through a phone microphone.

Eva: I’ll definitely keep Go Boom’s vision in mind. I want to see diversity in every sense: an unusual sound, a unique story, or an edgy form of expression. I’d love to hear things that break away from the typical Flemish sound. 

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I wish for more diversity among technicians, bookers, and managers

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Both of you work with young artists. What changes within the scene do you hope for? 

Eva: The barrier to getting started in music needs to be lower. There should be more room for experimentation – for just making noise and having fun. I also want to see a more accessible industry, not just on stage but behind the scenes too: I wish for more diversity among technicians, bookers, and managers. And of course, fair fees for everyone and less of that cutthroat competitive vibe.

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The wellbeing of young, emerging talent often gets overlooked

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Ward: Absolutely! And we need more durable platforms for artists. The well-being of young, emerging talent often gets overlooked. Just because the scene is crowded doesn’t mean smaller artists should be treated as disposable. We need to care for them, both creatively and practically.

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To conclude: why should musicians and bands sign up for Zebrastraat’s Showcase#Music? 

Eva: It is a competition, but a unique one, the selected artists get the chance to give a concert in a well-equipped venue, and receive a fair fee for it. 

Ward: And that’s rare in the music world, especially in competitions. Zebrastraat is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss. It’s not just about fair compensation; the hospitality and follow-up are exceptional. Unlike other rock rallies, where winners are handed a check and that’s it, Zebrastraat sets an example of how things should be. So don’t hesitate! 

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<div class="editorial-banner"> <div class=“editorial-credits”> @anker.gent<br/>@goboomgent<br/>@zebrastraat<br/>Open call for emerging Belgian bands! Want to perform at Zebra Café and Zebra Woods? <br/>Register here for the next Showcase#Music</div></div>