Basil Reynolds

Empowering Artists to Thrive Inside and Out

I’m a UK Hip Hop pioneer, master coach, and published author with over 30 years in the music industry. My work bridges creativity, emotional resilience, and performance—helping artists and music professionals navigate the mental and emotional demands of the industry.

“In an industry that celebrates output, I honour the process—and the person behind it.”

Hip Hop Connection 1988

Throwing down in Southend 1988

In 1985, I rapped on the Amstrad Studio 100 TV commercial — one of the first instances of rap in a UK television advertisement. This moment played a key role in bringing hip-hop culture into the mainstream.

In 1986, I founded the London Rhyme Syndicate with PlayBoy Prinz and DJ Dee, helping shape the foundation of the UK’s hip-hop scene during its formative years. Our 1988 release, Hard to the Core, became an underground anthem. In 1989, we appeared on Top of the Pops with D-Mob, performing the chart hit It is Time to Get Funky.

That same year, we featured as part of the B.R.O.T.H.E.R. Movement—a collective of UK hip-hop artists advocating against apartheid. Our collaboration on “Beyond the 16th Parallel” raised funds for the African National Congress.

Danny D, Basil Reynolds & Adrian Sykes

I’ve stood in your shoes. I’ve lived the thrill—and toll—of life in music: the late nights, the self-doubt, the hunger for relevance, and the heartbreak of rejection. I’ve seen how often the inner game—not the lack of talent—becomes the biggest barrier to success. That’s why I help creatives reconnect with their identity, resilience, and creative power. Because thriving in the music industry shouldn’t come at the cost of mental health, purpose, or joy.

As the 1990s unfolded, I gradually stepped away from my stage identity, choosing to work behind the scenes—working as a rap coach, contributing to major UK hits such as Eternal’s “Amazing Grace”, and MN8’s “I’ve Got a Little Something for You”. With a background in performance, identity, and resilience, I began laying the groundwork for my future coaching practice.

Celebrating My Book Publication

In 2020, I published Finding the Music Inside: Your Inner Algorithm to a More Meaningful Life—a blueprint for aligning artistic ambition with personal purpose. A year later, I launched Finding The Music Inside Consultancy, created to help music creatives build sustainable careers from the inside out.

Graduating as a Master Coach from the International Coaching Academy (ICA)

Since then, I’ve worked with artists at every stage of their journey, as well as labels, funders, and organisations including LIMF Academy, PRS Power Up, Sound City, LIPA, and Urbeatz. Whether it’s one-to-one coaching, strategic advising, or programme design, my work is driven by one mission:

To champion the human behind the music—and help create a healthier, more human music industry.

Basil Reynolds & Yaw Owusu (Creative Consultant)

If you’re committed to creating sustainable pathways for talent—rooted in authenticity, resilience, and long-term impact—I’m here to support that mission. Because thriving in the music industry shouldn’t come at the cost of mental health, identity, or joy.

If you want to know more: Contact me at info@findingthemusicinside.com