‍Mark your calendar for June 10 to June 13 because Indie Week in New York City is the place to be (at least WE will be there). Hosted by the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM), this annual event is designed to empower and elevate indie music professionals through a packed schedule of panels, workshops, networking opportunities, and showcases.

What is Indie Week?

Indie Week is an annual event that brings together independent music professionals from around the globe. It’s a unique platform where artists, labels, managers, and industry executives gather to share insights, forge new partnerships, and celebrate the vibrant indie music scene. The event features a series of panels and discussions led by industry leaders, workshops aimed at skill development, and live showcases that put the spotlight on emerging talents. This year’s Indie Week will be held at the Intercontinental New York Times Square hotel, promising a dynamic and inspiring environment for all attendees.

Is it worth attending?

Absolutely. Indie Week offers invaluable opportunities to learn from industry experts, connect with peers, and gain exposure for your music. Here are some key benefits:

• Networking: Meet industry leaders, potential collaborators, and like-minded artists. Networking at Indie Week can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
• Knowledge: Attend panels and workshops covering a wide range of topics, from marketing strategies to legal issues in the music industry. These sessions provide practical advice and insights that can help you navigate your career.
• Exposure: Participate in showcases to perform in front of industry professionals and gain visibility. This could be your chance to catch the eye of a label or manager looking for new talent.
• Innovation: Discover the latest tools and technologies that can help you streamline your music promotion and distribution, giving you a competitive edge.

How to get the most out of the experience as an independent artist?

To maximize your Indie Week experience, follow these tips:

1. Plan Ahead: Review the schedule in advance and prioritize the sessions and showcases that align with your goals. Create a daily plan to ensure you don’t miss out on key events.
2. Network Strategically: Don’t just network for the sake of networking. Have a clear idea of who you want to meet and what you hope to achieve from these connections. Prepare a short pitch about yourself and your music.
3. Be Open and Engaged: Attend as many panels and workshops as possible. Take notes and be ready to ask questions. Engaging actively can help you absorb more information and make a lasting impression on speakers and fellow attendees.
4. Showcase Your Music: If you’re performing, make sure your set is tight and well-rehearsed. Use this opportunity to showcase your best work and make an impact on the audience.
5. Leverage the Location: If you're in New York but find the registration fees steep, hang out in the lobbies of the Intercontinental New York Times Square hotel. Many valuable connections are made in informal settings. Also, keep an ear to the ground for satellite events and parties. Often, these events offer additional networking opportunities. Hustling a ticket is another option; sometimes sponsors might have extra passes available closer to the event.
6. Follow Up: After the event, follow up with the contacts you’ve made. Send personalized messages to thank them for their time and to keep the conversation going. This can help solidify new relationships and keep you top of mind for future opportunities.

Indie Week 2024 is shaping up to be an unmissable event for anyone serious about making a mark in the indie music scene. Whether you’re there to learn, network, or showcase your talent, approach the event with a strategic mindset and an open heart. 

If you are attending, make sure to hit us up! See you in New York!

For more information about Indie Week, visit A2IM Indie Week and check out the speakers who will be sharing their expertise.