Beatport Connect: A New Era for Dance Music Professionals
On September 26, 2023, the W Hotel in Hollywood will transform into a vibrant hub for music enthusiasts and industry professionals as it hosts the much-anticipated Beatport Connect conference. This one-day event aims to bridge the gaps in the electronic music ecosystem, offering valuable insights and fostering connections within the dance music community.
An Exciting Lineup of Speakers
The conference boasts an impressive lineup of speakers. Among them are Sofi Tukker, the electronic duo known for their genre-blending sound, and DJ Minx, a stalwart of Detroit house music. Their presence underscores the significance of the event, as they bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table. Other notable speakers include:
- Moody Jones, General Manager of Dirtybird, who has invaluable insight into brand development in the music scene.
- Gregory Alexander, co-founder of A Club Called Rhonda, known for its inclusive nightlife experiences.
- Claire Wright, the CEO of the BUDDY social utility app, aiming to enhance fan interactions.
- Josh Love, a partner at Reed Smith law firm, focusing on legal frameworks in music.
In addition to these influential figures, Beatport’s CEO Robb McDaniels and Sofia Ilyas, the Chief Community Officer, will share their vision for the future of music through Beatport’s platform.
Diverse Programming Topics
The conference will cover a broad range of topics relevant to the electronic music industry. Attendees can expect discussions on:
- AI’s Role in Music Production: How technology is shaping creativity and production processes.
- Working in the Attention Economy: Strategies for engaging a distracted audience.
- Fan Engagement: Building meaningful relationships with listeners in a digital-first era.
- Nightlife Culture: Exploring identity, safety, and community in nightlife spaces.
There’s something for everyone, from industry veterans to newcomers eager to learn about the latest trends and opportunities within electronic music. A complete schedule of sessions can be found here.
Welcoming the Los Angeles Scene
Beatport Connect will mark its inaugural edition in Los Angeles, following successful events in Mexico City and other regions. This event will not only establish Beatport’s presence in a city rich with electronic music legacy but will also serve as a platform for fostering new talent and networking within the community.
Alongside the daytime programming, the gathering will culminate in a lively sunset networking event and a late-night Beatport Live show, hosted at the W Hotel’s rooftop with collaboration from Insomniac Records.
Supporting a Meaningful Cause
Tickets for Beatport Connect L.A. start at $50, and a significant portion of the proceeds—50%—will benefit MusiCares, a nonprofit organization under the Recording Academy that provides essential support to musicians in need.
Furthermore, attendees wishing to partake in the evening’s festivities will have the option to purchase separate tickets. By engaging in this initiative, Beatport continues to align its commercial efforts with philanthropic missions, reinforcing their commitment to the music community.
Insights From Beatport Leadership
Robb McDaniels expressed the significance of holding the event in Los Angeles, stating, “The city has long been a creative and strategic hub for us. With Beatport Connect: L.A., we’re not just investing in the future of our scene; we’re creating a space for emerging artists, labels, and professionals to thrive.” His vision centers on building a more inclusive, sustainable, and collaborative environment within the global electronic music industry.
A Celebration of Connections in Dance Music
In summary, Beatport Connect is not just a conference; it’s an opportunity for those involved in electronic music to gather, share ideas, and ignite new collaborations. As the industry continues to evolve, events like this are crucial for ensuring that both emerging and established musicians have the support and resources they need to succeed.
