Program
Keynotes
| Speaker | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Cherie Hu, Founder of Water & Music |
The Future of Indie Music Tech |
Join Water & Music’s Cherie Hu for a data-driven exploration of the evolving independent music technology landscape. Drawing from five years of comprehensive investment tracking and market analysis, this keynote will examine how consolidation by major labels and private equity firms is reshaping the indie tech ecosystem, identify sustainable business models for independent music tools, and highlight emerging opportunities for indie companies to augment their revenue streams and maintain competitive advantages in partnership with tech companies. |
|
Shira Perlmutter, Register of Copyrights and Director, U.S. Copyright Office |
TBA |
Coming soon! |
|
Featured Keynote from Apple Music |
TBA |
Coming soon! |
Cherie Hu, Founder of Water & Music
The Future of Indie Music TechJoin Water & Music’s Cherie Hu for a data-driven exploration of the evolving independent music technology landscape. Drawing from five years of comprehensive investment tracking and market analysis, this keynote will examine how consolidation by major labels and private equity firms is reshaping the indie tech ecosystem, identify sustainable business models for independent music tools, and highlight emerging opportunities for indie companies to augment their revenue streams and maintain competitive advantages in partnership with tech companies.
Shira Perlmutter, Register of Copyrights and Director, U.S. Copyright Office
TBAComing soon!
Featured Keynote from Apple Music
TBA Coming soon!Featured Workshops
| Company | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Beatdapp |
Fake Streams, Real Damage: Uncovering Fraudulent Networks and AI’s Role in Streaming Fraud |
What happens when AI isn’t just making music—but organizing fraud? The next wave of royalty theft is already here.
Fraudsters are no longer just using bots to boost streams—they’re building sophisticated ecosystems of AI-generated tracks, manipulated playlists, and coordinated user activity to siphon billions in royalties from legitimate artists and rights holders. This panel will explore how these networks exploit vulnerabilities in the streaming economy, and examine the evolving role of AI on both sides of the fraud equation—both as a threat and as a tool for detection. Drawing from real-world investigations and cutting-edge fraud prevention techniques, we’ll discuss how the industry can stay ahead of the curve and protect its future. |
|
Beatdapp |
Beyond Fraud: How Data Transparency is Reshaping Streaming |
What if streaming fraud was just one piece of a much larger puzzle? This panel focuses on how improving data transparency across DSPs, distributors, and rights holders can reduce fraud, optimize royalty payouts, and build trust in the industry. Featuring Beatdapp’s cross-platform insights, panelists will discuss how transparent data sharing helps solve multiple challenges—tracking royalties, enforcing compliance, and unlocking new revenue opportunities. |
|
Spotify |
Level Up Your Release Strategy: Spotify’s Tools for Audience Development |
At Spotify, we’ve been developing tools to help indie artists and their teams build hype for new music and connect with new fans well into the release cycle — right on the platform where music is streamed. Join the Spotify for Artists team to learn how to best leverage our new release products — like Countdown Pages, Clips, Marquee, Showcase, and more — and hear directly from artist teams who have driven meaningful results using these strategies. |
|
ONErpm |
Keeping Indies Independent: How Working with Independent Labels Fuels Innovation and Artist Development – Presented by ONErpm |
Coming soon! |
|
BabyJam |
NORDER : AI as your Manager/Assistant |
Developed by BabyJam, NORDER is your personalized AI Manager/Assistant, designed to handle non-musical tasks such as email responses, scheduling, music data tracking and automated music marketing. This AI assistant allows artists to focus on their creative work while ensuring their administrative tasks.
To help our AI Manager better serve you, we will be conducting a survey to understand your needs. We encourage everyone to participate by following the link: https://forms.gle/NiSwjTKVcTqAypcS |
|
Bandcamp |
TBA |
Coming soon! |
|
Chartmetric |
How Can Independent Artists Discover and Grow Their Audience with the Power of Data – Presented by Chartmetric |
With millions of artists across the globe, it may seem impossible for developing artists to break through the noise and establish their fanbase. However, with the power of Chartmetric, you can leverage your artist’s data to find your core audience and develop strategies to maximize your success. |
|
Red Bull Records |
TBA |
Coming soon! |
Beatdapp
Fake Streams, Real Damage: Uncovering Fraudulent Networks and AI’s Role in Streaming Fraud
What happens when AI isn’t just making music—but organizing fraud? The next wave of royalty theft is already here.
Fraudsters are no longer just using bots to boost streams—they’re building sophisticated ecosystems of AI-generated tracks, manipulated playlists, and coordinated user activity to siphon billions in royalties from legitimate artists and rights holders. This panel will explore how these networks exploit vulnerabilities in the streaming economy, and examine the evolving role of AI on both sides of the fraud equation—both as a threat and as a tool for detection. Drawing from real-world investigations and cutting-edge fraud prevention techniques, we’ll discuss how the industry can stay ahead of the curve and protect its future.
Beyond Fraud: How Data Transparency is Reshaping Streaming
What if streaming fraud was just one piece of a much larger puzzle? This panel focuses on how improving data transparency across DSPs, distributors, and rights holders can reduce fraud, optimize royalty payouts, and build trust in the industry. Featuring Beatdapp’s cross-platform insights, panelists will discuss how transparent data sharing helps solve multiple challenges—tracking royalties, enforcing compliance, and unlocking new revenue opportunities.
What if streaming fraud was just one piece of a much larger puzzle? This panel focuses on how improving data transparency across DSPs, distributors, and rights holders can reduce fraud, optimize royalty payouts, and build trust in the industry. Featuring Beatdapp’s cross-platform insights, panelists will discuss how transparent data sharing helps solve multiple challenges—tracking royalties, enforcing compliance, and unlocking new revenue opportunities.
Spotify
Level Up Your Release Strategy: Spotify’s Tools for Audience Development
At Spotify, we’ve been developing tools to help indie artists and their teams build hype for new music and connect with new fans well into the release cycle — right on the platform where music is streamed. Join the Spotify for Artists team to learn how to best leverage our new release products — like Countdown Pages, Clips, Marquee, Showcase, and more — and hear directly from artist teams who have driven meaningful results using these strategies.
ONErpm
Keeping Indies Independent: How Working with Independent Labels Fuels Innovation and Artist Development – Presented by ONErpm Developed by BabyJam, NORDER is your personalized AI Manager/Assistant, designed to handle non-musical tasks such as email responses, scheduling, music data tracking and automated music marketing. This AI assistant allows artists to focus on their creative work while ensuring their administrative tasks.To help our AI Manager better serve you, we will be conducting a survey to understand your needs. We encourage everyone to participate by following the link: https://forms.gle/NiSwjTKVcTqAypcS
BabyJam
NORDER : AI as your Manager/Assistant Coming soon!Bandcamp
TBA Coming soon!Chartmetric
How Can Independent Artists Discover and Grow Their Audience with the Power of Data – Presented by Chartmetric With millions of artists across the globe, it may seem impossible for developing artists to break through the noise and establish their fanbase. However, with the power of Chartmetric, you can leverage your artist’s data to find your core audience and develop strategies to maximize your success.Red Bull Records
TBA Coming soon!Continued Legal Education (CLE)
Curated by Perkins Coie
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
|
Ethical and Legal Issues in Negotiation |
Coming soon! |
|
Emerging Technology Law Issues Impacting the Music Business |
|
|
Labor & Employment in 2025 – Changes with the New Administration |
Coming soon! |
|
Hot Legal Issues for the Music Industry |
|
|
Music Industry M&A: Trends and Key Legal Considerations |
Coming soon! |
|
Cybersecurity for Music Companies |
Coming soon! |
Ethical and Legal Issues in Negotiation
Coming soon!
Coming soon!
Emerging Technology Law Issues Impacting the Music Business
- Licensing music in connection with generative AI and other disruptive technologies
- Augmented reality, virtual reality and other technology developments impacting the music industry
- Social media, video games, influencers: Key legal considerations
Labor & Employment in 2025 – Changes with the New Administration
Coming soon!
Coming soon!
Hot Legal Issues for the Music Industry
- Music data and revenue matching
- Sponsorship/branding issues
- Adtech and privacy considerations
Music Industry M&A: Trends and Key Legal Considerations
Coming soon!
Cybersecurity for Music Companies
Coming soon!
IndieVest
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
|
The Indie Hustle: Music Innovation Pitch Competition |
A2IM, in partnership with Triple G Ventures, introduces The Indie Hustle. This is your chance to showcase your innovation to industry leaders, investors, and fellow creators at Indie Week 2025. We’re looking for groundbreaking projects that push the boundaries of the independent music ecosystem—whether it’s a new business model, technology solution, or creative strategy. Selected participants will present their ideas live, gaining valuable exposure, expert feedback, and the opportunity to connect with potential partners and supporters.
Apply to Pitch |
|
Music Investments 101: Unlocking Capital in the Independent Sector |
What does it take to attract capital, and how do investors assess value in music? This panel brings together leaders from investment banking, capital raising, venture capital, and music valuations to break down the fundamentals of music investment. From understanding financial structures and deal-making strategies to navigating risks and maximizing returns, our panelists will offer key insights into the growing intersection of music and finance. |
The Indie Hustle: Music Innovation Pitch Competition
A2IM, in partnership with Triple G Ventures, introduces The Indie Hustle. This is your chance to showcase your innovation to industry leaders, investors, and fellow creators at Indie Week 2025. We’re looking for groundbreaking projects that push the boundaries of the independent music ecosystem—whether it’s a new business model, technology solution, or creative strategy. Selected participants will present their ideas live, gaining valuable exposure, expert feedback, and the opportunity to connect with potential partners and supporters.
Apply to Pitch
Apply to Pitch
Music Investments 101: Unlocking Capital in the Independent Sector
What does it take to attract capital, and how do investors assess value in music? This panel brings together leaders from investment banking, capital raising, venture capital, and music valuations to break down the fundamentals of music investment. From understanding financial structures and deal-making strategies to navigating risks and maximizing returns, our panelists will offer key insights into the growing intersection of music and finance.
What does it take to attract capital, and how do investors assess value in music? This panel brings together leaders from investment banking, capital raising, venture capital, and music valuations to break down the fundamentals of music investment. From understanding financial structures and deal-making strategies to navigating risks and maximizing returns, our panelists will offer key insights into the growing intersection of music and finance.
Curated Panels
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
|
What Does Indie Mean Today, and Why Does It Matter? |
In a world where major labels and streaming platforms dominate, what does being “independent” truly mean, and why is it still relevant? This panel examines the changing definition of “indie,” from the unique challenges and opportunities indie artists and labels face to the cultural and economic impact of the independent music sector. Explore how “indie” remains a powerful and essential distinction, fueling innovation and representing a diverse array of voices in the music industry. |
|
Dealmaking in the Age of AI: Ensuring Proper Value and Protections for Independent Music |
As AI reshapes the music industry, independent labels face new challenges and opportunities in dealmaking. This panel explores the critical issues surrounding AI-driven technologies, including copyright, licensing, and revenue attribution, to ensure independent music is properly valued and protected. Experts will discuss how to navigate contracts, safeguard intellectual property, and leverage AI tools to benefit your business while maintaining control and fairness. |
|
Independent Music’s Top Women, Opening Doors for the Next Generation |
This panel will gather industry leaders who have not only broken glass ceilings but have also been advocates for inclusive change across all levels of the music business. From fostering safe spaces in the workplace to reshaping the narrative in music itself, this session is designed to discuss issues women face in 2025, and inspire tangible change in this new era. Attendees will gain invaluable insight into how companies and industry professionals can actively support female identifying voices, and how this inclusivity translates into stronger, more dynamic organizations. |
|
Deal or No Deal: Live Contract Negotiation |
Contracts are the foundation of the music industry, but how do negotiations unfold in real time? In this interactive panel, top industry lawyers will engage in a live contract negotiation, offering an inside look at the strategies, challenges, and key considerations that shape music deals. |
|
Mastering Social Media: Sustainable Strategies & Microcontent Management |
In a fast-paced digital world, artists and labels are constantly pressured to produce viral moments and an endless stream of microcontent to stay relevant. But how can they balance short-form content demands with long-term growth? This panel explores sustainable social media strategies beyond chasing trends—focusing on meaningful engagement, leveraging analytics, and creating content that aligns with an artist’s vision. Industry experts will also discuss the expanding role of microcontent, how to manage creative resources efficiently, and ways to build a lasting digital presence without burnout. |
|
The State of Indie Music Journalism: Navigating a Shifting Landscape |
As traditional music media declines and indie publications like Post-Trash and The Alternative fight to fill the void, the landscape of music journalism is undergoing a major transformation. With the rise of Substack offering direct-to-reader models and the fall of AltWeekly’s signaling the loss of key cultural platforms, where does indie music writing go from here? This panel explores how independent labels can work with emerging music media, leverage new journalistic platforms, and adapt their promotional strategies to ensure their artists get the visibility they deserve in the modern era of music writing. |
|
Breaking Borders: Global Opportunities for Independent Music Publishing |
Music publishers face both opportunities and challenges when navigating international markets. This panel dives into the intricacies of international publishing deals, partnerships, and collection societies, shedding light on the hurdles of global expansion and how to overcome them. Hear success stories from independent publishers who have successfully expanded their global footprint, and gain valuable insights into maximizing revenue in an increasingly borderless music industry. |
|
A2IM, Celebrating 20 Years, and Looking Ahead to What’s Next |
Celebrating A2IM’s first 20 years, and looking toward the decades to come. Rob Weitzner moderates this panel with Richard Burgess, Rich Bengloff and Don Rose, springboarding from the foundation they created, and anticipating tomorrow’s music ecosystem challenges and opportunities. Join this panel to get a sneak peek of behind the scenes of how the biggest independent music trade organization has sustained for the last 20 years and what does the future hold for A2IM. |
|
Annual General Meeting |
In Dr. Richard James Burgess’ final Annual General Meeting as President and CEO of A2IM, we invite you to join the A2IM team and Board in congratulating Dr. Burgess for years of driving the organization forward, for an overview of A2IM’s 20 year anniversary, and to learn what’s in store for the future. More information to be announced! |
|
Data Analytics All Stars: Turning Numbers into Music Industry Gold |
In an industry where data drives decisions, understanding analytics is key to unlocking growth and revenue. This panel brings together top data experts who will break down how to leverage streaming metrics, fan engagement insights, market trends, and predictive analytics to inform smarter strategies. Learn how to harness streaming metrics, audience insights, and market trends to stay ahead in a competitive landscape. |
|
How the Law Shapes the Future of Independent Music Distribution |
The legal landscape is rapidly redefining the future of independent music distribution. With over three dozen AI-related lawsuits, evolving copyright board guidance, the first U.S. criminal case on artificial streaming, and high-profile disputes the tension between indies and majors has reached new heights. Additionally, mergers, acquisitions, and other pivotal legal developments continue to shape the competitive dynamics of the industry. This panel will unpack these landmark cases and trends, exploring their implications for artists, labels, and distributors. Join leading legal and industry experts as they examine how these events will impact rights management, revenue streams, and the evolving relationship between technology and creativity. |
What Does Indie Mean Today, and Why Does It Matter?
In a world where major labels and streaming platforms dominate, what does being “independent” truly mean, and why is it still relevant? This panel examines the changing definition of “indie,” from the unique challenges and opportunities indie artists and labels face to the cultural and economic impact of the independent music sector. Explore how “indie” remains a powerful and essential distinction, fueling innovation and representing a diverse array of voices in the music industry.
In a world where major labels and streaming platforms dominate, what does being “independent” truly mean, and why is it still relevant? This panel examines the changing definition of “indie,” from the unique challenges and opportunities indie artists and labels face to the cultural and economic impact of the independent music sector. Explore how “indie” remains a powerful and essential distinction, fueling innovation and representing a diverse array of voices in the music industry.
Dealmaking in the Age of AI: Ensuring Proper Value and Protections for Independent Music
As AI reshapes the music industry, independent labels face new challenges and opportunities in dealmaking. This panel explores the critical issues surrounding AI-driven technologies, including copyright, licensing, and revenue attribution, to ensure independent music is properly valued and protected. Experts will discuss how to navigate contracts, safeguard intellectual property, and leverage AI tools to benefit your business while maintaining control and fairness.
As AI reshapes the music industry, independent labels face new challenges and opportunities in dealmaking. This panel explores the critical issues surrounding AI-driven technologies, including copyright, licensing, and revenue attribution, to ensure independent music is properly valued and protected. Experts will discuss how to navigate contracts, safeguard intellectual property, and leverage AI tools to benefit your business while maintaining control and fairness.
Independent Music’s Top Women, Opening Doors for the Next Generation
This panel will gather industry leaders who have not only broken glass ceilings but have also been advocates for inclusive change across all levels of the music business. From fostering safe spaces in the workplace to reshaping the narrative in music itself, this session is designed to discuss issues women face in 2025, and inspire tangible change in this new era. Attendees will gain invaluable insight into how companies and industry professionals can actively support female identifying voices, and how this inclusivity translates into stronger, more dynamic organizations.
This panel will gather industry leaders who have not only broken glass ceilings but have also been advocates for inclusive change across all levels of the music business. From fostering safe spaces in the workplace to reshaping the narrative in music itself, this session is designed to discuss issues women face in 2025, and inspire tangible change in this new era. Attendees will gain invaluable insight into how companies and industry professionals can actively support female identifying voices, and how this inclusivity translates into stronger, more dynamic organizations.
Deal or No Deal: Live Contract Negotiation
Contracts are the foundation of the music industry, but how do negotiations unfold in real time? In this interactive panel, top industry lawyers will engage in a live contract negotiation, offering an inside look at the strategies, challenges, and key considerations that shape music deals.
Contracts are the foundation of the music industry, but how do negotiations unfold in real time? In this interactive panel, top industry lawyers will engage in a live contract negotiation, offering an inside look at the strategies, challenges, and key considerations that shape music deals.
Mastering Social Media: Sustainable Strategies & Microcontent Management
In a fast-paced digital world, artists and labels are constantly pressured to produce viral moments and an endless stream of microcontent to stay relevant. But how can they balance short-form content demands with long-term growth? This panel explores sustainable social media strategies beyond chasing trends—focusing on meaningful engagement, leveraging analytics, and creating content that aligns with an artist’s vision. Industry experts will also discuss the expanding role of microcontent, how to manage creative resources efficiently, and ways to build a lasting digital presence without burnout.
In a fast-paced digital world, artists and labels are constantly pressured to produce viral moments and an endless stream of microcontent to stay relevant. But how can they balance short-form content demands with long-term growth? This panel explores sustainable social media strategies beyond chasing trends—focusing on meaningful engagement, leveraging analytics, and creating content that aligns with an artist’s vision. Industry experts will also discuss the expanding role of microcontent, how to manage creative resources efficiently, and ways to build a lasting digital presence without burnout.
The State of Indie Music Journalism: Navigating a Shifting Landscape
As traditional music media declines and indie publications like Post-Trash and The Alternative fight to fill the void, the landscape of music journalism is undergoing a major transformation. With the rise of Substack offering direct-to-reader models and the fall of AltWeekly’s signaling the loss of key cultural platforms, where does indie music writing go from here? This panel explores how independent labels can work with emerging music media, leverage new journalistic platforms, and adapt their promotional strategies to ensure their artists get the visibility they deserve in the modern era of music writing.
As traditional music media declines and indie publications like Post-Trash and The Alternative fight to fill the void, the landscape of music journalism is undergoing a major transformation. With the rise of Substack offering direct-to-reader models and the fall of AltWeekly’s signaling the loss of key cultural platforms, where does indie music writing go from here? This panel explores how independent labels can work with emerging music media, leverage new journalistic platforms, and adapt their promotional strategies to ensure their artists get the visibility they deserve in the modern era of music writing.
Breaking Borders: Global Opportunities for Independent Music Publishing
Music publishers face both opportunities and challenges when navigating international markets. This panel dives into the intricacies of international publishing deals, partnerships, and collection societies, shedding light on the hurdles of global expansion and how to overcome them. Hear success stories from independent publishers who have successfully expanded their global footprint, and gain valuable insights into maximizing revenue in an increasingly borderless music industry.
Music publishers face both opportunities and challenges when navigating international markets. This panel dives into the intricacies of international publishing deals, partnerships, and collection societies, shedding light on the hurdles of global expansion and how to overcome them. Hear success stories from independent publishers who have successfully expanded their global footprint, and gain valuable insights into maximizing revenue in an increasingly borderless music industry.
A2IM, Celebrating 20 Years, and Looking Ahead to What’s Next
Celebrating A2IM’s first 20 years, and looking toward the decades to come. Rob Weitzner moderates this panel with Richard Burgess, Rich Bengloff and Don Rose, springboarding from the foundation they created, and anticipating tomorrow’s music ecosystem challenges and opportunities. Join this panel to get a sneak peek of behind the scenes of how the biggest independent music trade organization has sustained for the last 20 years and what does the future hold for A2IM.
Celebrating A2IM’s first 20 years, and looking toward the decades to come. Rob Weitzner moderates this panel with Richard Burgess, Rich Bengloff and Don Rose, springboarding from the foundation they created, and anticipating tomorrow’s music ecosystem challenges and opportunities. Join this panel to get a sneak peek of behind the scenes of how the biggest independent music trade organization has sustained for the last 20 years and what does the future hold for A2IM.
Annual General Meeting
In Dr. Richard James Burgess’ final Annual General Meeting as President and CEO of A2IM, we invite you to join the A2IM team and Board in congratulating Dr. Burgess for years of driving the organization forward, for an overview of A2IM’s 20 year anniversary, and to learn what’s in store for the future. More information to be announced!
In Dr. Richard James Burgess’ final Annual General Meeting as President and CEO of A2IM, we invite you to join the A2IM team and Board in congratulating Dr. Burgess for years of driving the organization forward, for an overview of A2IM’s 20 year anniversary, and to learn what’s in store for the future. More information to be announced!
Data Analytics All Stars: Turning Numbers into Music Industry Gold
In an industry where data drives decisions, understanding analytics is key to unlocking growth and revenue. This panel brings together top data experts who will break down how to leverage streaming metrics, fan engagement insights, market trends, and predictive analytics to inform smarter strategies. Learn how to harness streaming metrics, audience insights, and market trends to stay ahead in a competitive landscape.
In an industry where data drives decisions, understanding analytics is key to unlocking growth and revenue. This panel brings together top data experts who will break down how to leverage streaming metrics, fan engagement insights, market trends, and predictive analytics to inform smarter strategies. Learn how to harness streaming metrics, audience insights, and market trends to stay ahead in a competitive landscape.
How the Law Shapes the Future of Independent Music Distribution
The legal landscape is rapidly redefining the future of independent music distribution. With over three dozen AI-related lawsuits, evolving copyright board guidance, the first U.S. criminal case on artificial streaming, and high-profile disputes the tension between indies and majors has reached new heights. Additionally, mergers, acquisitions, and other pivotal legal developments continue to shape the competitive dynamics of the industry. This panel will unpack these landmark cases and trends, exploring their implications for artists, labels, and distributors. Join leading legal and industry experts as they examine how these events will impact rights management, revenue streams, and the evolving relationship between technology and creativity.
The legal landscape is rapidly redefining the future of independent music distribution. With over three dozen AI-related lawsuits, evolving copyright board guidance, the first U.S. criminal case on artificial streaming, and high-profile disputes the tension between indies and majors has reached new heights. Additionally, mergers, acquisitions, and other pivotal legal developments continue to shape the competitive dynamics of the industry. This panel will unpack these landmark cases and trends, exploring their implications for artists, labels, and distributors. Join leading legal and industry experts as they examine how these events will impact rights management, revenue streams, and the evolving relationship between technology and creativity.
Additional programming to be announced.