Tyler James, 24, joined TMRW Creatives in early 2024 as a self-taught producer making beats in his bedroom in Chatham. Eighteen months later, he's signed to Rhythm Collective, an independent label known for breaking new UK talent. We sat down with Tyler to hear his story.
The Beginning
"I'd been making beats for about three years before I found TMRW," Tyler recalls. "I had thousands of beats on my hard drive, but I had no idea what to do with them. I'd put stuff on YouTube and SoundCloud, but nothing was happening."
Tyler discovered TMRW through a flyer at Medway Park. "I was skeptical at first – I'd seen so many 'music industry' things that turned out to be scams. But it was free, and it was local, so I thought I'd check it out."
The TMRW Experience
Tyler enrolled in the CONNECT programme, focused on industry networking and access.
"CONNECT was eye-opening. I realised that making good music is only half the battle. You need to know people, you need to be in the right rooms, and you need to understand how the industry actually works."
A key moment came during a CONNECT showcase event, where Tyler played some of his productions for a small audience that included several industry professionals.
"I played three beats, expecting nothing. Afterwards, this guy came up to me and asked for my contact details. Turned out he was an A&R scout for Rhythm Collective. I nearly dropped my phone."
The Journey to Signing
That initial conversation led to a series of meetings over the following months. Tyler was invited to the label's studios in London to meet the team and play more of his work.
"They didn't sign me straight away – it took about six months of back and forth. During that time, I was sending them new beats every couple of weeks, showing that I was consistent and improving."
The deal was signed in September 2025 – a production and artist development agreement that gives Tyler access to the label's resources while he develops his sound.
Advice for Other Creatives
We asked Tyler what advice he'd give to other TMRW community members:
1. Be ready when opportunity comes
"I had hundreds of beats ready to show. When that A&R asked what else I had, I could send him a folder immediately. Be prepared."
2. Stay consistent
"The label didn't sign me based on one beat. They signed me because I kept showing up, kept improving, kept sending new work."
3. Use every resource available
"TMRW gave me access to things I couldn't have accessed on my own. Studio time, industry connections, knowledge. Take advantage of everything."
4. Be patient but persistent
"Six months from first conversation to signing felt like forever. But it's actually fast for this industry. Don't get discouraged if things take time."
What's Next
Tyler is currently working on his debut project, expected to release in mid-2026. He's also producing for other artists on the Rhythm Collective roster.
"It still feels surreal," he admits. "A year and a half ago, I was just a guy making beats in my room. Now I'm working with a team who believes in me. TMRW was the bridge that made that possible."
Follow Tyler's journey on Instagram: @tylerjamesbeats