International Support Surges for Island Music Conference 2024 from Guadeloupe to Zimbabwe! The excitement is palpable as the Island Music Conference (IMC) 2024 gears up to bring together industry giants, burgeoning talents, and government officials in a celebration of Caribbean and global music culture. Scheduled from February 21st to 25th in Kingston, Jamaica, the IMC promises a powerhouse convergence of top-tier artistes, key stakeholders, and music enthusiasts from around the world.
Co-founder Sharon Burke has announced an impressive lineup of supporters for this year’s conference, including major players like YouTube, Meta, Spotify, Audiomack, Amazon, Warner Records, and Ineffable Records. Additionally, music powerhouses such as Sirius XM, VP Records, and United Masters will offer one-on-one consultations, providing invaluable guidance to attendees. One of the highlights of this year’s conference is the immersive two-day songwriting workshop, focusing on the art of crafting impactful punchlines and clever rhymes.
This workshop offers aspiring songwriters a unique opportunity to hone their skills under the guidance of industry experts. The enthusiasm for the IMC isn’t confined to the Caribbean; it has garnered enthusiastic support from regions as diverse as Guadeloupe and Zimbabwe. Co-founder Judith Bodley highlighted the Caribbean’s strong backing for the event, with Guadeloupe sending a 20-member delegation comprising government officials, artistes, producers, and managers. Delegations from Grenada and Zimbabwe are also set to participate, emphasizing the conference’s growing influence and reach beyond the Caribbean.
Several Caribbean artistes have confirmed their attendance, including Trinidad’s Kes and Skinny Fabulous, Guadeloupe’s Admiral T and Krys, and St. Vincent’s Krystian Mark, among others. The presence of these talented performers underscores the IMC’s role as a platform for showcasing the rich diversity of Caribbean music talent. Government officials from Barbados, Guadeloupe, and Zimbabwe will take center stage during the “Industry and Government Policies/Partnerships for Success Forum” on February 24th.
The forum will explore crucial topics related to industry regulations, cultural policies, and collaborative opportunities between governments and the music industry. With over 15 panels and workshops featuring prominent global music executives and practitioners, the IMC offers insights into a wide range of topics, including the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the music industry, publicity strategies, artiste management, and digital marketing. The conference aims to facilitate dialogue, address pivotal questions, and propel the Caribbean’s music and entertainment sector forward as a unified force.
Sponsored by a diverse array of organizations including TASTEE Jamaica LTD, YouTube, Audiomack, and the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport (MCGES), the IMC enjoys strong support from both public and private sectors. This collaborative effort underscores the significance of the event in promoting cultural exchange, fostering talent development, and driving economic growth. As the birthplace of iconic musical genres such as Reggae, Ska, and Dancehall, Kingston, Jamaica, serves as the perfect backdrop for the IMC. With its rich musical heritage and vibrant creative scene, Kingston exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines Caribbean music culture.
International recording artistes like Wyclef Jean, Mya, Sean Paul, and Teejay are among the participants, adding star power to the event. Chaired by Orville ‘Shaggy’ Burrell, the IMC promises five days of inspiration, collaboration, and celebration of music in all its forms. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, industry professional, or simply a music enthusiast, the Island Music Conference 2024 offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, gain valuable insights, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Caribbean music culture.