The event, which takes place on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the Fusion on First building, will welcome Grammy and Emmy nominees along with top music professionals from companies such as TikTok, Spotify, Universal Music Group, Def Jam and TIDAL Music, and provide a place for music industry professionals to meet up.

Read the full press release below.

About the Music Industry Career Conference

Arizona State University's Popular Music Program is set to host its second annual music industry conference at its Downtown Phoenix location. The conference brings together industry professionals, students and the broader music community. The event engages students with a hands-on learning experience that will shape the future of the recorded music industry. 

“There are so many amazing musicians and professionals that work in the music industry who are based right here in Phoenix that the community doesn’t necessarily know about. We are excited to bring the music community together under one roof and help educate the next generation of musicians, DJs, producers and entrepreneurs to be successful,” said Erin Barra-Jean, director of the Popular Music Program at ASU.

The conference will feature an array of music industry professionals from companies such as TikTok, Def Jam, TIDAL Music, Spotify and Universal Music Group along with special presentations from Grammy and Emmy nominees. Participants will be able to receive hands-on experience by attending masterclasses, one-on-one sessions and studio sessions. Attendees will also have an opportunity to have their material reviewed by A&R professionals aiding in the creative process. 

The two-day event kicks off March 22, with a performance showcase at the Valley Bar, followed by a day-long conference on March 23 at ASU’s newest downtown building, Fusion on First. Fusion on First is a state-of-the-art facility equipped with professional recording studios, rehearsal and production spaces that sit across Phoenix’s famous venues and art hubs. 

Rooted in ASU’s vision of innovation and housed within the School of Music, Dance and Theatre, the Popular Music Program prepares students for all facets of the music industry, from performance to entrepreneurship. Students hone their craft while also learning music business practices to ensure success after graduation. 

The conference will be held at ASU’s Fusion on First building with free admission for students and educators. Tickets for the general public are available for $100. A conference itinerary and ticket information can be found on the Popular Music Industry Career Conference website.

About Arizona State University's Popular Music Program

The popular music concentration within the BA program in music at Arizona State University welcomes and accommodates musicians interested in popular music, music industry studies and entrepreneurship. All students in the popular music program develop general musicianship and foundational skills that prepare them to specialize in areas of study which include songwriting, production, composition, performance, engineering, sound design, live sound and event production, music business, popular music education and advocacy work.