International Music Conference Speakers and Presenters include major label executives, platinum songwriters, music producers, recording artists, radio personalities and a host of other professionals who may help make you the next star in the music industry.
Here's your opportunity to network with the international music community in Atlanta. Look who's scheduled to be in attendance. Remember dates, times, locations and speakers are subject to change. If you've never been to a music conference or haven't gotten all that you could from one it's time to read
The Truth about Record Pools and Music Conferences, Talent Shows and Open Mics.
AL MCLEAN
For the last 4 years, Al “Butter” McLean has been VP of Creative at Kobalt Music. At Kobalt, he is responsible for acquisition of songwriters administration rights and music catalogs, develop marketing strategies to exploit products, solicit client products to 3rd party ventures, and assist in song & product placement. Al “Butter” McLean has been an executive in the music business for 14 years. Prior, companies who have benefited from his experience & talents are Island Records, Right Tyme/Warner Records, JB Music Publishing, H.O.L.A Recordings Company, Reach Global Music Publishing, Universal Music Publishing & Alicia Keys/MBK Entertainment to name a few.
Major Record Label A&R
BRYAN-MICHAEL COX
Eight-time Grammy winning Producer and Songwriter Bryan-Michael Cox is appropriately named one of Billboard’s “Top 10 Producers of the Decade” and sits on Billboard’s “Hot R&B Song of the Decade List”, “Hot 100 Songs of the Decade List”, “Top 200 Albums of the Decade List” and is a 2009 Georgia Music Hall of Fame inductee. Melodies such as Usher’s “Burn”, “Confessions” and “You Got It Bad” and Mary J. Blige’s record breaking smash “Be Without You” managed to remain securely unbothered in the number one spot.
DAVINCHEUK producer, DaVinChe began his career producing Grime tracks, he has since turned his talents onto projects across various genres. From the sophisticated soul of Shola Ama and Kele Le Roc and the chart-topping heroics of Estelle ,Tinie Tempah , Wretch 32 and Tinchy Stryder then on to the uncompromising sounds of grime pioneers Wiley, Jammer, Skepta, Roll Deep, JME, Giggz, and Kano is one of the reasons why the self-taught studio producer and engineer was named by ‘Wire Magazine’ as a talent to watch. There is a subtext to DaVinChe making him more difficult to pin down or stereotype, he is a pianist and guitarist, who composes and arranges all styles (grime, hip hop, R&B, pop). DaVinChe has performed a classical concert for the BBC.
Major Record Label A&R
DJ DON CANNON
The platinum producer originally from Philadelphia and now based in the Atlanta, GA has produced a number of songs for prominent artists such as Young Jeezy, 50 Cent, Ludacris, Asher Roth, D Block, Big Sean, The Cool Kids and Fabolous. He has also worked alongside fellow Philadelphian DJ Drama on the popular mixtapes series Gangsta Grillz and the syndicated radio show Gangsta Grillz Radio. Cannon also produced over 5 songs on Drama’s 2007 album debut, Gangsta Grillz: The Album.
DJ TRAUMA
Originally from New York, DJ Trauma left the big Apple to attend college at Clark Atlanta University (CAU) in Atlanta, GA. During his tenure at CAU, DJ Trauma gained a fan base by showcasing his programming and mixing skills at college parties which shortly thereafter lead to a tour DJ appearance with Bad Boy Entertainment. On the international front, DJ Trauma was the official DJ for the 2009 Channel-O Awards after party in Johannesburg, South Africa and a special invited guest as a conference panelist, instructor and judge during the 2009 New Skool Rules in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. In addition, DJ Trauma has traveled extensively and provided musical navigation for premier nightclubs in Lagos, Nigeria, London, England, Dominican Republic, and Mexico. Nationwide, Trauma has been the featured DJ for annual red carpet events including MTV and BET Awards, Super Bowl, NBA All-Star, Essence Music Awards, Magic ShowLas Vegas and more. Trauma is also an accomplished producer and has worked Estelle, Interscope recording artist Verse Simmonds, hip hop duo Rock City, and new hip hop artist Billz.
Major Record Label A&R
DREADY
Hip Hop heavyweights like Busta Rhymes and Method Man describe him as “Crazy” and “a beast!” Dready is a producer who is steps ahead of the game, making an indelible impression on every project he touches! Dready made his official entry a decade ago when he started working with the British phenomenon that was So Solid Crew, known for their Number 1 smash hit single “21 Seconds”. His production for individual members of the crew such as Asher D, was instrumental in the success of their solo ventures and brought Dready achievement and increased industry respect. From his Birmingham roots in the English midlands, he now spends most of his time jet setting across the Atlantic from London to LA, New York and Miami working with everyone from Dre, Busta Rhymes, Jeezy and G-Unit to UK chart-toppers, Chipmunk, Estelle, Jay Sean and Miss Dynamite.
DRUMMA BOY
Award winning producer and Billboard Magazine’s #2 Producer of 2010, Drumma Boy will be a panelist at IMC. Most recognised for his infectious hit “No Hands” by Waka Flocka, Roscoe Dash and Wale as well as Young Jeezy’s “Put On” and Birdman ft Drake and Lil Wayne “Money to Blow,” shows that his reputation is among the greatest for his dynamic style and professional input. Credits also include; T.I., Akon, Plies, Monica, Gucci Mane, Lil’ Jon, Rick Ross, Kanye West, and more.
Major Record Label A&R
JOSEPH “JP” PATTERSON
Joseph ‘JP’ Patterson is a music journalist who is known for his in-depth knowledge on the UK’s underground music scene. Currently serving as Editor for MTV’s urban music website, The Wrap Up, Street Music Correspondent for BBC Radio 1, Online Columnist for VIBE Magazine and GQ South Africa, among other things, this 23-year-old man is spreading the good UK music gospel, far and wide.
J QUE
Award winning record producer and songwriter, J Que has spawned hits for some of the entertainment industry’s biggest international stars including; Usher, Fantasia, Ciara, Keri Hilson and Chris Brown. Most recently he wrote and co-produced Beyonce’s current smash hit record, “Best Thing I Never Had” which peaked at number 3 on the UK singles charts.
Major Record Label A&R
MANNY NORTE
One of the most long-standing and respected figures in the UK’s music industry, MOBO Award Winning Manny Norté has become known as the “Name You Can Trust.” Manny is regularly called upon by Jay Z, Beyonce and Rihanna as their DJ of choice when in the U.K, he’s played at every notable British event including album launches, The Brit Awards after parties and Naomi Campbell‘s Fashion Relief Party. Racking tours with US artist’s such as Nas and Nelly, Manny’s work has taken him to countries such as Malaysia, Hong Kong, Sweden, Geneva, Russia, Ghana, Kenya and Barcelona to name a few. Following four years as a DJ/Presenter at BBC 1xtra, Manny moved to the Kiss FM network taking control of the popular Friday night mix show slot, signaling the start of the weekend.
MARC BYERS
Marc Byers is the Co-Founder of Rockstar Entertainment. A former Atlantic Records A&R Executive, Byers ventured out into management and is mostly recognised as the driving force behind Philadelphia’s music success stories. Rockstar Entertainment has heavily influenced urban music for the past 20 years, now co-manager for actress Raven Symone, Rockstar Entertainment also represented Grammy Award winning producers Andre Harris and Vidal Davis, as well as Grammy recording artist Eve and acts as a consultant to multi-platinum selling artist, Usher.
Major Record Label A&R
MARIA MORE
Maria More is an accomplished Radio Personality, Voiceover Talent, Model, and Entrepreneur. She has worked for stations in many U.S. markets including Florida (Blazin’ 102.3, Magic 101.3), Philadelphia (Voice of “Loveland” on 100.3 The Beat Philly), Georgia (Hot 107.9 Atlanta) and North Carolina (92 Jams Rocky Mount). Maria joined Hot 107.9 in February of 2008 and has delivered the highest Midday Arbitron Ratings in the 16 year history of the radio station. She can be heard weekdays from 10am-2pm (EST) on Hot 107.9 in Atlanta. Maria earned her B.S. in Journalism from Florida A&M University and also holds an MBA in Marketing from Florida State University.
MIYKALE SNODDY
Having composed hits for Diddy Dirty Money “Loving You No More” and Lupe Fiasco’s current hit featuring Trey Songz “Out of My Head”, Miykal Snoddy has become the secret weapon of numerous heavy-hitters in the industry. A classically trained pianist and violinist, Miykal brings a rare level of talent to his projects that is dynamic and has been recognized by the likes of Sean Garrett, Ne-Yo and Jamie Foxx. Miykal has also worked with international favourite Estelle “Do My Thing” and Jamie Foxx “Three Letter Word.” Upcoming projects include a collaboration with international superstar, Ne-Yo.
Major Record Label A&R
RICO LOVE
The incredibly talented Rico Love, responsible for Kelly Rowland‘s dramatic transformation and huge summer smash, “Motivation” will be judging our Producer Showcase competition. Career highlights include, Diddy-Dirty Money “Hello, Good Morning,” Usher‘s “There Goes My Baby” and “Daddy’s Home,” Beyonce‘s “Sweet Dreams” as well as working with UK top 10 favourites Alexandra Burke and Natasha Beddingfield. Other collaborations include; Keri Hilson, Fergie, Sean Kingston, Nelly and Jamie Fox.
SHANTI DAS
Shanti Das is an accomplished Music Industry Executive, Marketing Executive, Consultant, Mentor, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and Author. She is also the CEO and Founder of Press Reset Entertainment, an entertainment marketing/consulting firm. Shanti’s music industry career began as a Promotions Assistant for Capital records. Shortly afterwards, LaFace records hired her as its National Director of Promotions, where she worked closely with label founders Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and Antonio “LA” Reid. Shanti has since held titles such as Senior Director of Urban Marketing for Arista Records, Vice President of Urban Marketing at Columbiarecords, Sr. Vice President of Urban Marketing at Sony Urban Music and Executive Vice President of Urban Marketing and Artist Development at Universal Motown. Throughout her 20-year stint in the business, Shanti has worked with a plethora of artists and was influential in the careers of OutKast, TLC, Usher, Toni Braxton, Prince, Erykah Badu , Bow Wow, Amerie and international megastar, Akon.
Major Record Label A&R
TONY NEAL
Tony Neal, the CEO of Core DJs l began DJ’ing as a hobby at the age of 15, and has been behind the tables ever since. With a passion for the craft, he has built one of the strongest and most recognizable brands in the entertainment industry, The Core DJ’s Worldwide. Now in its 7th year, The Core DJs Worldwide is the premier coalition for DJs. Its membership boasts over 500 of the country’s most influential DJs as well as International DJ Talent. The primary purpose of the coalition is to empower and educate the core of the music industry–the DJ. The brand has since expanded to include the highly anticipated semi-annual Core Retreat, Core Models, Core Hotlist, and national events throughout the year.
VIDAL DAVIS
Vidal is one half of the Multi-Grammy Award Winning songwriting and production duo Dre & Vidal who helped to define Philadelphia’s richly organic music scene. After the success of producing over half of Jill Scott’s album Words and Sounds Vol. 1 “Long Walk,” the duo went on to develop artists such as Musiq “Love,” Floetry “Say Yes,” and Glenn Lewis‘ “Don’t You Forget It” gaining critical acclaim. Hits also include Michael Jackson’s “Butterflies,” Usher Raymond’s “Caught Up” and Ciara’s “Oh.” Their discography spans from traditional R&B to jazz to hip-hop, securing over 40 million records sold worldwide!
Major Record Label A&R
Other Panelists, Guests, Hosts include:
Bangladesh – Award winning producer (Lil Wayne, Ludacris)
Cappricieo Scates – Associate Director, Writer/Publisher Relations, SESAC
David Miller – VP International Marketing, Atlantic Records,
Dennis Byron – Hip Hop Enquirer
DJ Semtex – (UK)
Gerald Radford – Rolling Out
Jennifer Drake – Director of Rhythm and Blues, ASCAP
JR Lindsey – Head of Urban/Pop BMG Chrysalis Publishing
Mami Chula – DJ and Radio Personality – 107.5 Wild FM
Marc Byers – Music Exec/Manager – Raven Symone
Marvyn Harrison – A&R (UK)
Mr. Silk – Bang FM Radio Personality (UK)
Rob Finan – Entertainment Lawyer at Greenberg Traurig
Rodney Carmichael – Creative Loafing
Shawn Holiday – Senior VP A&R Sony Music
Steve Lucas – General Manager Upfront Megatainment (Akon, Kelly Rowland), Konlive Management Team
Teddy Riley – Award winning producer and recording artist
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Music Industry Connection
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Wed, Sept 21, 2011
Private “
WELCOME TO ATLANTA” Industry Meet & Greet Hosted by Miss Britian
Atlanta’s exclusive media and social elite are invited to join guests from overseas for a spectacular evening of networking. Meet your fellow music creators for a special networking reception hosted by Miss Britain. Limited Entry.
Location: TBA to invited guests only on the day of the event
Time: 5PM – 10PM
Music Industry Connection on Nook
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Sept 22, 2011
THURSDAY
IMC PRODUCER SHOWCASE
Up and coming producers, whose tracks were pre-selected by IMC will have their music played before a panel of prominent music industry tastemakers from Europe and US. They will then provide valuable constructive criticism for the benefit of the participants and audience and help them build relationships and contacts that can assist them in getting ahead in their careers. This is a competition. One lucky producer will win the chance to work with a UK chart-topping artist.
IMC DJ MIX-OFF COMPETITION
International award winning DJs alongside America’s finest DJs will judge the first ever DJ Mix-Off competition. Up and coming DJs will have the chance to showcase their talents in front of live audience and high profile panelists who will judge their DJing style. The winner will then receive an all expense trip to Europe and play at an exclusive UK official after party, guest DJ at a top London radio station, and walk away with the IMC trophy, “Best New DJ.”
Location: Opera – 1150 Crescent Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30309
Time: 4:30PM – 10PM
Major Label A&R Connection
IMC OFFICIAL AFTER PARTY
IMC Registrants receive free entry before 11:30PM. IMC Registrants will have own line to enter the vicinity – Please have your IMC Passes as proof of entry.
Location: Opera – 1150 Crescent Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30309
Time: 10PM – LATE
SEPTEMBER 23, 2011
FRIDAY
IMC ARTIST SHOWCASE
Up and coming artists will get the opportunity to perform live in front of an esteemed gathering of music industry executives from across the globe. The showcase is to demonstrate versatile talent with the hopes of further networking and the chance to get one step closer in securing that ever sought-after record deal. Artists will have the opp to submit demos and receive feedback from industry professionals.
Location: Primal Nightclub – 960 Spring Street, Atlanta, GA 30309
Time: 6.30PM – 9PM
Music Industry Connection on Nook
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IMC OFFICIAL AFTER PARTY
IMC Registrants receive free entry before 11:30PM. IMC Registrants will have own line to enter the vicinity – Please have your IMC Passes as proof of entry.
Location: Primal Nightclub – 960 Spring Street, Atlanta, GA 30309
Time: 10PM – LATE
SEPTEMBER 24, 2011
DAY OF CONFERENCE
Location:
Artmore Hotel Conference Room
1302 West Peachtree Street – Atlanta, GA 30309
Major Label A&R Connection
Music Industry Connection
9:00 AM
REGISTRATION OPENS IN THE COURTYARD
12:00 PM
CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS
Meet Managers and A&Rs from the UK and US who will outline what they look for in an international star. What works, what doesn’t, what’s trending, the right sound the right look and attitude, what makes you unique and overall crossover appeal. Learn from the very best in the business. Ask questions and the chance to submit demos.
1:10 PM
POP SONG FEEDBACK
Engage in honest talk and receive valuable advice from chart-topping Pop songwriters and producers and industry executives in this song listening session where a limited number of songs pre-submitted by registrants will be given feedback in front of an audience.
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2:15 PM
LEGAL ISSUES 101
Basic legal questions are covered here. Our panel of experts will give you an overview of how to put your legal house in order. Learn about publishing and administrative deals; discover info on licensing your music overseas, visas and distribution. You’ll also learn practical information about handling co-writes, shares and sampling, a must for any emerging artist.
3:00 PM
MARKETING YOUR MUSIC OVERSEAS
Marketing Your Music Overseas is Different, So How Do You Do It? (Successfully Marketing Your Music Overseas) This panel will show you how the European song market differs from that of the US and will explore the roles of European publishers, how deals differ from territory to territory the significance of IMC and how to go about breaking into global markets.
Music Industry Connection on Nook
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Major Label A&R Connection
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4:00 PM
THE DJ: THE IMPORTANCE OF DJ/ARTIST RELATIONSHIPS IN THE UK/US
Who you should know and why. Differentiating the roles of a radio DJ and a club DJ and the importance of both, why they are important to the careers of an artist and the best ways to foster a relationship.
5:00 PM
HIP HOP & R&B SONG FEEDBACK PRESENTED BY HIP HOP ENQUIRER MAGAZINE
Engage in honest talk and receive valuable advice from chart-topping hip hop songwriters and producers and industry executives in this song listening session where a limited number of songs pre-submitted by registrants will be given feedback in front of an audience.
Major Label A&R Connection
10:00 PM
IMC OFFICIAL AFTER PARTY
IMC Registrants receive free entry before 11:30PM. IMC Registrants will have own line to enter the vicinity – Please have your IMC Passes as proof of entry.
Register for the International Music Conference
Music Industry Connection on Nook
Music Industry Connection on Kindle
Major Label A&R Connection
Music Industry Connection
The International Music Conference 2011 schedule is tentative and subject to change. Please check back for regular updates on scheduling information. Information provided only as a courtesy. All links and resources throughout the site not necessarily associated with International Music Conference.
