Below is the evolving programming schedule for NOLA MusiCon 2023. Sessions and speakers are being added daily.
See What's going On!
Schedule
Schedule
Tuesday
2:00pm-2:50pm
Sound Investments: Investing in the Music Tech Industry
Tuesday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Jazz Playhouse
In the era of digital disruption, music and technology are merging to create groundbreaking innovations, and music tech startups are at the forefront of this revolution. Join us as we delve into the dynamic world of music tech startups, uncovering investment opportunities that harmonize creativity, innovation, and financial growth.
Tuesday
3:00pm-3:50pm
Act Local, Think Global: Discovering & Developing Tomorrow’s Stars Where They Live
Tuesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Grand Ballroom
Traditional wisdom says that in order to be discovered in the music industry, you need to move to one of three hub cities: Los Angeles, New York, or Nashville. That means there is a tremendous amount of talent going undiscovered throughout the U.S., as many musicians don’t have the means or ability to live in one of these cities. The solution is to act local and think global, establishing a homebase in up-and-coming regional scenes and finding local stars to bring to a worldwide audience. This approach led to the explosion of Memphis rappers Moneybagg Yo and GloRilla; served as a springboard for local producers and songwriters such as YC, Real Red, and Hittkidd; and could even the playing field going forward for musicians in New Orleans, Atlanta, and other regional scenes. In this panel, attendees will meet several executives who are pursuing this strategy and learn how they can apply lessons from their successes to their own work.
Futureproof Your Brand by Leveraging Web3 Strategies
Tuesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Regal Suite
In an ever-evolving music landscape, staying ahead of the curve is not just an option—it's a necessity. Join us for a groundbreaking session that will arm you with the tools to futureproof your brand and maximize your revenue streams. Our talk, "Futureproof Your Brand by Leveraging Web3 Strategies," will unveil the transformative power of blockchain technology in reshaping the music industry.
Songwriting Workshop
Tuesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Evangeline BC
Join us for this interactive workshop with multi-talented artist Vurdell 'VScript' Muller and inspiration specialist Robin Nicole Kindrick. Discover the secrets behind crafting powerful lyrics, creating memorable melodies, and structuring your songs for maximum impact.
The Society of Composers and Lyricists Demystified
Tuesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Jazz Playhouse
The Society of Composers and Lyricists is a prestigious organization that brings together composers and lyricists from various facets of the entertainment industry, including film, television, video games, and theater. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the SCL, its mission, activities, and how it contributes to the art and business of music composition and lyric writing.
Tuesday
4:00pm-4:50pm
The Historical Stages Project - Diplomacy, Digital Tourism, & Cultural Preservation
Tuesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Grand Ballroom
Local touring artists and diplomacy-focused organizations collaborate on innovative initiatives to ethically bridge New Orleans with global audiences, advancing the cultural economy through digital infrastructure, preservation, and intercultural exchange.
Striking the Right Chord: Marketing and Promotion Strategies for Artists
Tuesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Regal Suite
The music industry is constantly evolving, and effective marketing and promotion strategies are an essential part of an artist's journey to the forefront of audience attention. From building a brand to leveraging social media, learn how to create a resonating presence in today's competitive musical landscape.
Booking 101 For Independent Artists
Tuesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Evangeline B/C
Learn everything you need to know to not only book more shows, but better ones! Presented by Tunetrax, this workshop will answer these questions and more:
- How do artists get started booking shows? Learn what every musician needs to know about booking a first show.
- How do artists book more shows and better ones? Tips on how to book more shows and better ones.
- What tools are available to artists for booking shows and music festivals? Learn about booking tools and services available to artists.
- How do artists approach talent buyers, venues and music festivals? Find out what to do - and especially what not to do - when talking to the gatekeepers.
- How do artists stop playing those crummy bars over and over? Tips on how to think outside the box, get better gigs and expand a fan base.
Fletcher Nielsen is a singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and composer based in …
Beyond Stereo: Exploring Immersive Audio
Tuesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Jazz Playhouse
From classic albums reimagined in immersive audio to the frontiers of music yet to be explored, discover how mastering records in immersive sound is reshaping the musical landscape.
Tuesday
5:00pm-5:50pm
Crisis + Opportunity: The Evolution of The Music Format
Tuesday | 5:00pm-5:50pm | Grand Ballroom
Roughly once every decade the music business changes based on the technology that drives the industry. From FM radio, color television, the album to cassettes, CD’s, streaming and TikTok, it is the format that people experience their music on that helps shape the historic eras of music and arts. This session will be an examination of how we can approach every moment of crisis in the music space as also a chance of opportunity by adapting our music formats to fit the modern day experience we share as a society.
Tuesday
6:30pm-8:30pm
NOLA MusiCon Opening Mixer Presented by New Orleans & Company
Tuesday | 6:30pm-8:30pm | Jazz Playhouse
After the opening day sessions, attendees can pop over to the Royal Sonesta Jazz Playhouse to share some drinks and fun, and celebrate this new event.
Wednesday
10:00am-10:50am
Unlocking Music Access for Billions: The TREBEL Revolution
Wednesday | 10:00am-10:50am | Grand Ballroom
TREBEL was launched in late 2018, with a bold mission to revolutionize the music industry and provide an extraordinary music experience to millions across the globe. Their journey has been driven by the belief that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, should have access to the joy of music. TREBEL has forged strategic partnerships with some of the world's largest global advertisers and international music and media companies. Together, they have pioneered a legal and licensed service that redefines the music consumption landscape. TREBEL's evolutionary approach enables users to enjoy music without the constraints of an internet connection, all thanks to the generous sponsorship of forward-thinking brands. Join us for a conversation with TREBEL Co-Founder and Global Head of Music, Corey Jones, and JCH Properties+ President Tara Hernandez, about this groundbreaking initiative.
Publishing 101: What Can a Music Publisher Do for You?
Wednesday | 10:00am-10:50am | Regal Suite
For up-and-coming artists, the prospect of signing with a music publisher can be perplexing. Why would I give up a percentage of my songwriting royalties? How is this different from signing with a label? How will I make more money? In the end, partnering with the right music publisher helps artists in a variety of ways, from administration services that ensure all royalties are collected and distributed appropriately, creative teams who can connect artists with songs that fit them and songwriters with artists who can take their songs to #1, and sync opportunities in film, TV, advertising, and beyond that can bring in large amounts of money and fund future projects. In this panel, music publishing experts will walk attendees through the basics and reveal what they have to gain from signing a publishing contract.
How to Release an Album in 2024
Wednesday | 10:00am-10:50am | Evangeline B/C
Releasing music today is vastly different from releasing music even just 5 years ago. It's no longer about release week. It's now about release year. There are extremely important steps to take before *and after* the release of each single and album to make sure you have the biggest effect. Because every artist is unique, every release plan requires a unique approach. However, there are some proven strategies that every artist, manager and label can employ to make sure their release has the impact it deserves. Ari will break down these concrete strategies and give you a bulletproof release plan you can use for your next release. You will walk away with detailed strategies, specific checklists, innovative ideas and a solid handle on what exactly needs to get done for your next release.
MMF-US Presents: An Artist Manager Masterclass
Wednesday | 10:00am-10:50am | Jazz Playhouse
Join established artist managers sharing their extensive knowledge and experience from a variety of genres. They will discuss all aspects of the business, from starting a business, structuring deals, building a team, nurturing the manager-artist relationship, artist growth and development strategies, delve into their most effective marketing tactics (including traditional, live and digital), mission-based initiatives and advocacy, how to grow and sustain long-term careers, and visions for the future of artist management.
Wednesday
11:00am-11:50am
Empowering Artists in Managing Their Finances
Wednesday | 11:00am-11:50am | Regal Suite
To paraphrase the immortal Donna Summer, you work hard for the money. Now what? Join our panel of financial experts as they discuss practical strategies, budgeting wisdom and making smart financial decisions that can empower artists to navigate their careers with fiscal confidence and build sustainable livelihoods.
The Intersection of Music and Health
Wednesday | 11:00am-11:50am | Jazz Playhouse
Music is a powerful and transcendent force, enriching lives in ways that extend far beyond the concert stage. Join us as we explore the intricate interplay between music and health, and discuss the unique healthcare needs of musicians.
Wednesday
12:00pm-12:50pm
Scoring for Visual Media
Wednesday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Grand Ballroom
Music elevates storytelling, shapes audience perceptions, and evokes emotions that words alone cannot express. Gain insight into the composer’s process of creating a sonic narrative for various forms of visual media, and the different strategies they use to keep the inspiration and music flowing.
How Do You Know When You Need a Manager?
Wednesday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Regal Suite
The decision to seek representation is a significant one; how do you know if it's the right time to take that step? Hear from the unsung heroes of the music industry, managers, as they share their valuable insight and practical advice to help you make informed decisions about your music career.
TikTok Strategies
Wednesday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Evangeline B/C
TikTok has revolutionized the music industry, providing a platform where artists can skyrocket to fame through viral content. Our panel of experts will share their insights and actionable strategies to help you harness the full potential of TikTok for your music career.
Fostering Community Through the Airwaves
Wednesday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Jazz Playhouse
Community plays a vital role in today's society, particularly in a world that often feels disconnected. Radio, which has been around for just over a century, has been a powerful tool for fostering community spirit, but the landscape has shifted with the advent of satellite and internet radio. This shift raises questions about listener loyalty: are they more dedicated to their local stations or their preferred internet and satellite channels? This exploration delves into how local radio stations continue to cultivate and support their communities, and examines how internet and satellite platforms are also forming their own unique communities.
MIC'D UP Mentor Den Session | Wednesday 12:00pm
Wednesday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Evangeline A
The Mentor Program is designed to give direct access to industry professionals who have agreed to share their time and experience with others. Receive personalized input by scheduling one-on-one meetings with the mentor of your choice. Sessions are scheduled in ten minute increments, and sign up begins half an hour before the start of each Mentor Session. You can only sign up for sessions on the day that they are held. Please come prepared with the questions you intend to ask - ten minutes goes by fast!
Wednesday
2:00pm-2:50pm
Metaverse Mixtape: The Soundtrack of Virtual Reality
Wednesday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Grand Ballroom
Step into the boundless realm of the Metaverse and explore the fusion of technology and music like never before. Join our panelists for a deep dive into the intersection of the Metaverse and the world of music, exploring the ways in which these two realms are converging to create a truly immersive and transformative experience.
Ticketing Roundtable
Wednesday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Regal Suite
Join us for a round table conversation on the issues facing ticketing and music fans, solutions, helping to provide educational insights and clarity in understanding the state of these matters both in the music and broader entertainment industries as well as in terms of advocacy efforts with Congress.
From award-winning festivals to nationally-renowned concert venues, Mauer’s marketing strategies …
The Artistic Soul: Nurturing the Creative Process in a Tech-Driven World
Wednesday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Evangeline B/C
How do we continue to preserve and nurture the creative process In a rapidly evolving digital landscape? Join us for a conversation about how technology is shaping the creative process for artists today and how, in turn, artists are influencing the evolution of technology. We’ll explore innovative tools, collaborative platforms, and community-driven initiatives that facilitate creative freedom for artists, helping them maintain the authenticity of their creative work while embracing the advantages of a tech-driven world.
The New Orleans Biz Dev Advantage
Wednesday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Jazz Playhouse
Learn how the New Orleans business landscape offers a distinct advantage to entrepreneurs, startups, and established companies alike. We'll discuss the unique advantages and opportunities for business development in this historic and culturally rich city, and how it has become a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.
MIC'D UP Mentor Den Session | Wednesday 2:00pm
Wednesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Evangeline A
The Mentor Program is designed to give direct access to industry professionals who have agreed to share their time and experience with others. Receive personalized input by scheduling one-on-one meetings with the mentor of your choice. Sessions are scheduled in ten minute increments, and sign up begins half an hour before the start of each Mentor Session. You can only sign up for sessions on the day that they are held. Please come prepared with the questions you intend to ask - ten minutes goes by fast!
Wednesday
3:00pm-3:50pm
From Black to Green: Sustainability in Vinyl Manufacturing
Wednesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Grand Ballroom
As the music industry seeks more sustainable practices, vinyl enthusiasts and industry insiders are turning their attention to "green vinyl," a term used to describe vinyl records manufactured using eco-friendly materials and processes. Learn about how pressing plants are adopting eco-friendly initiatives such as recycled vinyl and sustainable packaging, and what the industry is doing to work towards a greener future.
A passionate advocate for environmental and community initiatives, Caroline Morgan …
The Power of Fans: Strategies for Fan Engagement
Wednesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Regal Suite
Fans are the lifeblood of any artist's journey, and understanding and mastering the art of fan engagement is key. And in a post-pandemic world where digital communication has become the primary means of connection, our panel of experts will explore the new normal of fan engagement. How has the industry adapted, and what lessons can we carry forward as we navigate the ever-changing landscape?
Charles Alexander is an independent singer/songwriter, digital strategist and artist …
On the Road Again: Touring Tips
Wednesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Evangeline B/C
Touring is a cornerstone of a musician's career, offering opportunities for growth, exposure, and unforgettable experiences. However, the road to success is often paved with challenges. Our panelists will share their invaluable insights, practical advice, and indispensable tips for navigating the world of touring.
MIC'D UP Mentor Den Session | Wednesday 3:00pm
Wednesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Evangeline A
The Mentor Program is designed to give direct access to industry professionals who have agreed to share their time and experience with others. Receive personalized input by scheduling one-on-one meetings with the mentor of your choice. Sessions are scheduled in ten minute increments, and sign up begins half an hour before the start of each Mentor Session. You can only sign up for sessions on the day that they are held. Please come prepared with the questions you intend to ask - ten minutes goes by fast!
From award-winning festivals to nationally-renowned concert venues, Mauer’s marketing strategies …
Wednesday
4:00pm-4:50pm
Sustainable Touring and Live Events
Wednesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Grand Ballroom
In a world that is increasingly focused on environmental and social responsibility, the music industry is no exception. Join our panelists for an engaging discussion on the innovative approaches and initiatives the touring and live events sectors are taking, and the challenges they face. They'll explore the ways that the music industry can contribute to a more sustainable and socially conscious future.
Pressing Start on Alternative Sync & Licensing Opportunities
Wednesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Regal Suite
As made clear by the recent SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, it is more important than ever for music publishers, songwriters, and other rights-holders to develop alternative forms of sync revenue. With that in mind, gaming has emerged as a strong source for sync dollars, from radio stations in “Grand Theft Auto” to the annual “Madden NFL” soundtrack to music in the metaverse. The gaming industry is especially strong in New Orleans, and this panel will gather experts from near and far to help attendees take advantage of the sync opportunities waiting for them in their own backyard and beyond.
Jonathan McHugh is the newly named Hilton-Baldridge Eminent Scholar/Chair in Music Industry …
How to Break into the Industry
Wednesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Evangeline B/C
Join a panel of seasoned industry professionals as they share their invaluable insights, strategies, and personal stories on how to break into the music industry. Our speakers bring a wealth of experience, and will provide you with practical advice, actionable tips, and inspiration to set you on your way.
NOLA Music Industry Infrastructure
Wednesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Jazz Playhouse
Renowned as the birthplace of jazz and a city steeped in musical history, New Orleans is a thriving hub for artistic expression. Hear from our panel of local industry leaders as they share their insights, experiences, and visions for building a robust music industry infrastructure that will continue to honor New Orleans' musical legacy while paving the way for a vibrant future.
MIC'D UP Mentor Den Session | Wednesday 4:00pm
Wednesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Evangeline A
The Mentor Program is designed to give direct access to industry professionals who have agreed to share their time and experience with others. Receive personalized input by scheduling one-on-one meetings with the mentor of your choice. Sessions are scheduled in ten minute increments, and sign up begins half an hour before the start of each Mentor Session. You can only sign up for sessions on the day that they are held. Please come prepared with the questions you intend to ask - ten minutes goes by fast!
Wednesday
5:00pm-5:50pm
NOLA's Creative Sector: Crossroads of Culture and Innovation
Wednesday | 5:00pm-5:50pm | Grand Ballroom
New Orleans has long been a hub for artistic expression, creativity, and cultural innovation. Join us for an illuminating discussion that celebrates the city's vibrant creative sector, exploring how it fuels innovation, influences the arts, and shapes the unique character of New Orleans.
Behind the Boards
Wednesday | 5:00pm-5:50pm | Regal Suite
Step into the studio and gain valuable insight from this panel of esteemed producers. They'll share their secrets, stories, and strategies that make music production an art form in its own right.
Jonathan McHugh is the newly named Hilton-Baldridge Eminent Scholar/Chair in Music Industry …
MIC'D UP Mentor Den Session | Wednesday 5:00pm
Wednesday | 5:00pm-5:50pm | Evangeline A
The Mentor Program is designed to give direct access to industry professionals who have agreed to share their time and experience with others. Receive personalized input by scheduling one-on-one meetings with the mentor of your choice. Sessions are scheduled in ten minute increments, and sign up begins half an hour before the start of each Mentor Session. You can only sign up for sessions on the day that they are held. Please come prepared with the questions you intend to ask - ten minutes goes by fast!
Wednesday
7:00pm
Inflection Point and Ciao Baby Hola to Debut Unique Collaborative Performances at Hotel Peter and Paul, New Orleans
Wednesday | 7:00pm | Hotel Peter and Paul (2317 Burgundy St)
Join us on October 25th for an evening that goes beyond the ordinary, as Inflection Point and Ciao Baby Hola invite you to experience the beauty of art, live and in person. NOLA MusiCon Badges get in free.
Wednesday
8:00pm-2:00am
New Orleans Music Showcase at Cafe Istambul
Wednesday, October 25 | 8:00pm-2:00am | Cafe Istanbul (2372 Claude Ave)
NOLA MusiCon Partners
Tunetrax and rythmandsoulradio.com present a great night of emerging New Orleans music night of urban eclectic independent artists. NOLA MusiCon's own Lou Hill's band Water Seed will headline. NOLA MusiCon Badges get in free.
Thursday
10:00am-10:50am
Jazzing Up Your Digital Streams: Are You Getting All the Payments You Should?
Thursday | 10:00am-10:50am | Regal Suite
In the world of independent music, it can be daunting to understand the financial facet of the music industry. It’s important to make sure you are receiving all the rightful payments you are entitled to. In this panel, we break down the different revenue streams and explore the digital music landscape, making it easy to understand all forms of payment you should be receiving, making sure no money is left on the table. Join The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC) as we dive into the essential aspects of mechanical licensing processes. This panel will provide insights and best practices for independent artists and songwriters to unlock the full revenue potential of their musical compositions.
Making Tracks: Conversation with Producer Scott Billington
Thursday | 10:00am-10:50am | Jazz Playhouse
From the 1980s through the early 2000s, Scott Billington, in collaboration with Boston-based Rounder Records, recorded some of the period's most iconic artists, including Irma Thomas, Bobby Rush, Ruth Brown and Solomon Burke. Scott has written a book about his experience producing these legends, and will share stories from behind the scenes, providing a unique perspective on the triumphs and frustrations of the recording process and the relentless pursuit of capturing transcendent performances.
Thursday
11:00am-11:50am
New Orleans Hip Hop
Thursday | 11:00am-11:50am | Grand Ballroom
Join us for a look at the rich and vibrant history of New Orleans hip hop and its significant contributions to the genre. Often overshadowed by the larger hip hop scenes of cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, New Orleans has quietly cultivated a unique and influential hip hop culture that deserves recognition.
Secret to Landing on Playlists
Thursday | 11:00am-11:50am | Regal Suite
Everyone wants to know the magic trick that will land their song on major playlists and skyrocket their career. The truth is that there is no one magic trick but a number of components that go into a successful playlisting strategy. And a lot of that work starts long before a track is released in order to set it up for future success. This panel will showcase successful case studies where artists and distributors worked together to implement the right planning, research, and marketing to strike playlist gold. Attendees will walk away with new ideas for tackling this crucial piece of their wider distribution strategy.
She's in Control: Women in Music Production
Thursday | 11:00am-11:50am | Evangeline B/C
The world of audio engineering is still disproportionately male; however, more women than ever are "manning the boards". Join this panel of talented female engineers as they share their valuable insight into the creative and technical aspects of their work and their experience in the world of music production.
Tatiana Ferrer, whose passionate and progressive approach to supporting independent …
Thursday
12:00pm-12:50pm
Playing the Long Game: Why Relationships Matter
Thursday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Grand Ballroom
In the music industry, lasting success often hinges on more than just talent and creativity. Join us for an insightful conversation about the invaluable art of playing the long game, and the enduring significance of relationships. The connections you forge along the way can be the foundation upon which your career thrives.
Known throughout entertainment and technology as “part connector/part evangelist/always a …
In Perfect Sync: Licensing and Song Placements
Thursday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Regal Suite
Discover how music is carefully curated and strategically placed in film, television, advertising, and other visual media to elevate storytelling and evoke emotions. Learn the ins and outs of licensing, from music selection to royalties, and gain insights into how artists and creators collaborate to create memorable moments on screen.
Music Royalties, Music Funding, and How to Build and Sustain a Successful Music Career
Thursday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Evangeline BC
This panel will cover how creatives can register their music and leverage their catalogs to build a sustainable career. Panelists will break down the ins and outs of royalties, the alternative funding options available, and what artists should consider when running their career like a small business.
Sound Opportunity: Louisiana Music Industry Incentives Remastered
Thursday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Jazz Playhouse
Do you record in Louisiana? Do you want to? Are you thinking about opening or expanding your business here? Not only does Louisiana offer some of the best artists, engineers, producers and studios in the country, it will give you money back if you record or open up a related business in the state. The Sound Recording Incentive offers up to an 18% rebate on the eligible expenditures made when recording in the state, and up to 15% on W2 wages for employees of music companies that create new jobs in Louisiana. Plus, we’ve made it more user friendly. If you are recording in Louisiana and not taking advantage of this program, you are leaving money on the table. Join Amanda Hafford from Louisiana Entertainment to learn more about eligibility and process.
MIC'D UP Mentor Den Session | Thursday 12:00pm
Wednesday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Evangeline A
The Mentor Program is designed to give direct access to industry professionals who have agreed to share their time and experience with others. Receive personalized input by scheduling one-on-one meetings with the mentor of your choice. Sessions are scheduled in ten minute increments, and sign up begins half an hour before the start of each Mentor Session. You can only sign up for sessions on the day that they are held. Please come prepared with the questions you intend to ask - ten minutes goes by fast!
Thursday
2:00pm-2:50pm
This Must Be The Place: How Music Can Make Your City Better
Thursday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Grand Ballroom
Join Shain Shapiro as he launches his debut book, This Must Be The Place: How Music Can Make Your City Better, lauded by Richard Florida as a 'playbook to use music to make neighborhoods stronger and more vibrant.' To celebrate, Shain will moderate a discussion that tries to answer a simple question: how can music-friendly policies directly improve local commercial music industries? Sometimes the work of improving city policy is more holistic and longer-term focused than the day-to-day needs and realities of the sector, but the work of MetroNOME, the Texas Music Office and others demonstrates a direct correlation that we want to explore: that public officials engaged in music have direct, immediate impact on local music industry development. Learn how music cities and the music industry can improve together and create better music-business friendly places for everyone. Please note: Shain will also have a book signing after the session.
Why You Still Need a Distributor as an Indie Artist
Thursday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Regal Suite
As an independent artist, you may be used to relying on basic distribution services to get your music onto streaming platforms. But there are many benefits that can be obtained by taking it one step further and seeking out a full-featured distributor to work with. The right distribution partner will get your music into stores, help land you on playlists, and keep you actively involved and educated throughout the process. In this panel, attendees will hear from several executives who work on the distribution side of the industry to get their artists’ music into the right hands, successfully implement playlisting strategies, and champion them throughout their career, as well as learn best practices and current trends that they can directly apply to the distribution of their music.
Music and Show Promotion 101 For Independent Artists
Wednesday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Evangeline B/C
Learn everything you need to know as an artist to be successful promoting yourself and your music.
- How do artists grow their listenership and fanbase?
- How do artists best promote their music online?
- What are the best ways for artists to get publicity and media exposure?
- How to best be prepared and ready to promote yourself and your music?.
- How do artists best promote a show, an event such as a festival or a tour?
- What are the most effective tools available to artists to promote themselves and their music?
Songwriting: Finding Your Voice
Wednesday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Jazz Playhouse
Songs have the ability to evoke a memory or emotions; they are the soundtrack of our lives. Join our panelists as they discuss inspiration, their creative process, and how they harness their songwriting magic.
MIC'D UP Mentor Den Session | Thursday 2:00pm
Wednesday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Evangeline A
The Mentor Program is designed to give direct access to industry professionals who have agreed to share their time and experience with others. Receive personalized input by scheduling one-on-one meetings with the mentor of your choice. Sessions are scheduled in ten minute increments, and sign up begins half an hour before the start of each Mentor Session. You can only sign up for sessions on the day that they are held. Please come prepared with the questions you intend to ask - ten minutes goes by fast!
From award-winning festivals to nationally-renowned concert venues, Mauer’s marketing strategies …
Thursday
3:00pm-3:50pm
Up From The Streets New Orleans: The City of Music
Thursday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Grand Ballroom
The documentary, Up From The Streets New Orleans: The City of Music, celebrates the culture of New Orleans through the lens of music. Join filmmaker Michael Murphy and others as they discuss the city’s rich history, diverse influences, and the profound impact of its music on global culture.
Artists, Bands and Brands
Thursday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Evangeline B/C
Whether building your band’s brand on social media platforms, or building a brand for physical merchandise sales, artists look to branded merchandise and brand partnerships to supplement their income and subsidize their tours. This panel will discuss protecting and enforcing trademarks for artists' brands as well as trademark issues that arise when filing with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) under the artist’s band & brand name. Find out which artist names, brand names (and lyrics) can actually be protected, and the kinds of deals that are out there once the brand is protected, registered with the USPTO and ready to sell!
Evolution & Fusion of Latin Music
Thursday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Jazz Playhouse
Latin Music is currently breaking records and changing the way the music industry operates and picks talent. Join us for a discussion about the previous struggle of Latin Music receiving any acceptance or attention on non-Latin radio and media, and how things are changing. Our panelists will share their experiences as 1st & 2nd generation Latinos, and how being exposed to Latin rhythm and sounds growing up has contributed to their current and future musical projects.
MIC'D UP Mentor Den Session | Thursday 3:00pm
Wednesday | 3:00pm-3:50pm | Evangeline A
The Mentor Program is designed to give direct access to industry professionals who have agreed to share their time and experience with others. Receive personalized input by scheduling one-on-one meetings with the mentor of your choice. Sessions are scheduled in ten minute increments, and sign up begins half an hour before the start of each Mentor Session. You can only sign up for sessions on the day that they are held. Please come prepared with the questions you intend to ask - ten minutes goes by fast!
Thursday
4:00pm-4:50pm
Festivals Forecast 2024
Thursday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Grand Ballroom
Music festivals are back in full swing, but have had to pivot and adapt to a post-pandemic world. A panel of festival experts will talk about the current landscape and share their visions for the evolution of music festivals in the years to come.
From award-winning festivals to nationally-renowned concert venues, Mauer’s marketing strategies …
DSP Payment Models
Thursday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Regal Suite
Rights Management Demystified
Thursday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Evangeline B/C
Technology continues to reshape how music is created, distributed, and consumed. Understanding the intricate web of rights associated with music has become essential for artists and creators. Join our panel of experts as they demystify the multifaceted world of rights management.
MIC'D UP Mentor Den Session | Thursday 4:00pm
Wednesday | 4:00pm-4:50pm | Evangeline A
The Mentor Program is designed to give direct access to industry professionals who have agreed to share their time and experience with others. Receive personalized input by scheduling one-on-one meetings with the mentor of your choice. Sessions are scheduled in ten minute increments, and sign up begins half an hour before the start of each Mentor Session. You can only sign up for sessions on the day that they are held. Please come prepared with the questions you intend to ask - ten minutes goes by fast!
Thursday
5:00pm-5:50pm
Spotlight Speaker: Doug E. Fresh
Thursday | 5:00pm-5:50pm | Grand Ballroom
Pioneering Hip-Hop artist Doug E. Fresh has captivated audiences for nearly 40 years with his creation of the human beatbox art form. His unrivaled skill has resulted in an enduring legacy, and continues to break new ground. Proudly born and raised in Harlem, New York, he shot from local phenomenon to nationally recognized talent with the help of an appearance in the 1984 cult classic movie “Beat Street.” By 1985, Fresh had become one of hip-hop’s biggest international stars, thanks to the success of his classics, "The Show” and “La Di Da Di," recorded with his Get Fresh Crew, including MC Ricky D (a.k.a. Slick Rick). A tireless social activist and a vocal proponent of artists' rights, Fresh currently serves as Vice President and Co-founder of the Hip Hop Public Health (HHPH) nonprofit whose mission is to end health illiteracy through music and to foster positive health behavior changes, beginning with school-aged children. Doug E. Fresh continues to perform, and is one of the most actively touring musicians across all genres, averaging a whopping 200 live, domestic performances per year for the past two decades.
Joining Fresh will be Rosie Lopez, Co-Founder and CEO of Opus Music Group, to discuss his iconic career and what the future holds for this Hip-Hop legend.
Thursday
7:00pm-11:00pm
NOLA MusiCon Thursday Night Presented by sonaBlast! Records
Thursday | 7:00pm-11:00pm | Voodoo Garden at the House of Blues (225 Decatur St)
After an inspiring day of informative sessions it's time to kick back with some amazing music at Voodoo Garden at the House of Blues. The Daddy Sisters kick off the night with a glam rock explosion. The original hybrid: business in the front, party in the back, DJ El Camino, closes out the night with a musical mullet. Terrible mileage, but wonderful smileage.
Friday
11:00am-11:50am
In My Life: Preserving the Artist's Legacy
Friday | 11:00am-11:50am | Regal Suite
The legacy of an artist lives on through their work, influencing generations to come. Join us for a discussion that dives deep into the strategies, challenges, and responsibilities associated with safeguarding an artist's impact on culture, society, and the arts.
A&R Evolution
Friday | 11:00am-11:50am | Evangeline B/C
From the days of vinyl records to the digital age of streaming and viral sensations, A&R practices have evolved over the years. Join us as we explore how technology, culture, and innovation have reshaped the role of A&R professionals and their impact on music creation, discovery, and development.
Friday
12:00pm-12:50pm
The Transformative Power of Music Education
Friday | 12:00pm-12:50pm | Regal Suite
Music education is more than just playing notes and melodies; it's a powerful force that enriches lives, shapes minds, and creates lifelong connections. Join us for an inspiring panel discussion that explores the dynamic world of music education, celebrating its pivotal role in personal and academic development.
Friday
2:00pm-2:50pm
Spotlight Speaker: Dawn Richard
Friday | 2:00pm-2:50pm | Grand Ballroom
Multi-hyphenated artist and New Orleans native Dawn Richard will screen her directorial debut, Pigments, a film about the power of self expression told through the lens of movement and poetry. Featuring dance students from the New Orleans Centre for Creative Arts (NOCCA), Pigments is a beautiful film that tells the story of dance and how it can color, shape, and become actual Pigments that Paint our personal stories. Join us for a Q&A after the film.
October 24-27, 2023
Royal Sonesta New Orleans
300 Bourbon Street
New Orleans, LA 70130