Africa Rising Music Conference Schedule

Sponsored by Paradise Penthouse

ARMC BY DAY 1 – 23rd May 2023

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MAIN PLENARY

10.00 – 10.20 “Crown” Welcome Performance & How to Make the Most Out of ARMC

Welcome performance by:
John Lundun & Jessica LM

Welcome note by:
Naimah Global & DJ La Vita

10.30 – 11.10 Queens of the 90’s & 2000’s – History of the South African Landscape by Legends

Join legendary female artists as they reflect on their careers and the impact of their music on South African culture during the transformative 90s and early 2000s. Hear how they addressed social and political issues and shaped the music industry. Discover how the South African landscape has evolved and what work is still needed for progress. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from these iconic figures in music history.

Speakers
Zanele Nestum Nyakale – Singer
Penny Lebyane –
Multi-Personality
Winnie Khumalo
Singer, Songwriter
Tamara Dey –
Artist
Zandi Nhlapo – TV Presenter, Actress

Moderator
Lulama Mali  Deputy chair of Women In Music SA

11.20 – 12.00 Zambia Unlock’d!

Explore the thriving music industry of Zambia with our panel of experts in music business. From the emerging artists making waves to the established veterans who paved the way, our panelists will share their insights and experiences on the music business in Zambia. Discover the unique challenges and opportunities facing Zambian musicians and industry professionals, and learn how they are navigating the global music landscape. Whether you’re a music fan or a professional in the industry, join us for an engaging and informative discussion on the music business in Zambia.

Speakers
Samantha Mogwe – Radio Presenter
Chishimba Nyambe
PR Girl Media
Monde Nymabe –
PR Girl Media
El Mukuka
Artist & producer

Moderator
Michie Malambo TV/ Radio Personality 

12.10 – 12.50 Artist-Manager Collaboration: Key to Music Industry Success

Join us for an insightful discussion on the evolving role of a manager in today’s fast-paced and constantly changing business landscape. Our panel of experienced managers and industry experts will share their insights and experiences on the changing nature of management, from traditional hierarchical structures to more agile and collaborative approaches. Discover how technology is transforming the way managers work, and how managers are adapting to stay ahead of the curve. Whether you’re a manager looking to stay up-to-date or simply curious about the changing face of management, this panel is not to be missed.

Speakers
Bwalia Nkumbula Founder CEO & Zed Arts Records Ltd.
Damon Forbes –
Founder, BreakOut Agency
Duke Mabeto
Founder of ECALIVE

Moderator
Jake Beaumont-Nesbitt – International Music Manager Forum 

14.00 – 14.40 Rhyme and Reason: The Evolution of Hip Hop and Its Impact on Today’s Youth

Let’s explore the evolution of Hip-hop, how far it has come as a genre, it’s impact on the music landscape across the world and how it has steadily impacted the youth! Speakers will explore their respective perspectives as hip-hop artists and how they use it as a tool to document the times.

Speakers
Tyson Sybateli – Artist
Natasha Chansa –
Founder of Zed Arts Records
Bugzito –
Artist, Label Onalerona Collaborations

Moderator
Siya Metane – SlikourOnLife

14.50 – 15.30 Music Meets Virtual Reality: The Future Ahead

This panel discussion will explore the intersection of music and virtual reality, and the innovations that are shaping the future of these industries. Experts from the music and technology sectors will share their insights on the latest developments in virtual reality technology and its impact on the music industry. Attendees will learn about the ways in which virtual reality is changing the way we experience music and how musicians and music professionals are using VR to create new and immersive soundscapes. The panel will also discuss the challenges and opportunities of this emerging field, and what the future holds for music and virtual reality.

Speakers
Liseli Akayombokwa (Lady Light) – Artist/DJ
Jonas Sercombe –
Producer, Multi Media Pro

Moderator
Michael Balkind – SodaWorld Founder

15.40 – 16.20 German Music Market: Insights from Experts

With a population of over 83 million people, Germany is one of the largest music markets in the world. However, breaking into this market can be challenging, especially for international artists and music industry professionals. This panel brings together a diverse group of industry leaders with extensive experience in the German music market. Through a discussion of market trends, opportunities, and challenges, the panelists will provide valuable insights on how to navigate this complex landscape. Topics to be covered include the German music industry’s unique characteristics, including licensing, publishing, and distribution; the role of live events and festivals in the market; and the impact of digital streaming platforms. The session will also include a Q&A portion, allowing attendees to ask questions and gain further insights from the panelists.

Speakers
Ghanian Stallion – Artist
Slawjana Ulrich –
Co-Founder & CEO of Stil vor Talent GmbH
Pamela Owusu-Brenyah –
Pop-Kultur Booker I Curator
Alex Flitsch –
Head of Artist and Label Relations Paradise Worldwide

Moderator
Thilini Jayawickrama – Association for Electronic Music

DANCE LAB

11.00 – 13.00 Learn to DJ with FUNDI – Brought to you by Pioneer DJ

AlphaTheta, Africa Rising Music Conference and Bridges For Music are coming together to provide two free of charge DJ workshops for Africa Rising Music Conference attendees. Join Fundi and Pioneer DJ Trainers for a free of charge workshop, teaching you the basics of DJing, covering beatmatching, EQ management, effects and transitions. Please note, you must have an Africa Rising Music Conference delegate pass to join this session. Spaces are also limited and you will be contacted with further information if your application is successful. Sign up only.

14.00 – 14.40 Optimizing Music Revenue: Recognition Tech, Live Collection, and Distribution

Join our round table of music industry experts to discuss maximizing revenue and addressing challenges in music licensing and metadata management. Learn about emerging technologies and collaborative efforts to streamline royalty collection and distribution, and stay ahead of the curve in improving payments to rights holders in the music industry.

Speakers

Ralph Boege – Founder Paradise Worldwide
Frank Rodi – Innovation | Electronic Music Pioneer DJ
Will Dinsdale – Will Dinsdale EMEA CHANNEL MARKETING MANAGER, Pioneer DJ
Pfanani Lishivha – CEO, SAMPRA

 

PARADISE PENTHOUSE

16.30 – 18.00 Meet the Paradise Worldwide (Kässpätzle & Schnaps)

Meet the team behind Paradise Worldwide! The professionals who are committed to developing artists and record labels to maximize their potential and protect their rights. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to learn more about Paradise Worldwide and connect over a drink! This mixer will be powered by AFEM.

STUDIO

13.00 – 19.00 Searching for Paradise (invitation only)

HUB

11.20 – 12.00 Ask Me Anything by SAMRO

Do you have any burning questions about the music business, licensing, or rights collection that you have always wanted to ask but did not know where to turn? Join ASK ME ANYTHING with SAMRO to get all the answers to your questions.

Speakers

Karabo Senna – General Manager for Sales and Licensing
Aidan Schmidt – Digital & International Manager.

 

THORN

14.00 – 15.30 Meet The Agents, Bookers & Festivals 

Looking to connect with agents, bookers, and festival organizers in the African Music space? Join us for our “Meet The Agents, Bookers & Festivals” speed networking, hosted by DJ La Vita. This is a unique opportunity to make valuable industry connections and discuss potential collaborations. Don’t miss out on the chance to take your career to the next level – don’t miss it! Sign up to secure your spot.

CINEMA

12.00 – 13.00 BBC acclaimed ‘This Is Amapiano’

From the streets of South Africa to dancefloors around the world, a look at one of the fastest-growing new music genres, amapiano. The documentary features the most important DJs, artists and producers in amapiano, such as Major League DJz, Felo Le Tee, DBN Gogo, Daliwonga and many more. Guest appearances include Davido, and 1Xtra’s DJ Edu and Jermiah Asiamah.

13.00 – 14.00 Namakau Star Short Film

Music meets spirituality in Namakaus Landing Short Film a journey into the self

14.00 – 15.00 Building Bridges Short Film

The behind the scenes of young executives who have been flown from South Africa to Berlin for the building bridges program. This is a short film of how they experienced the German culture, music food, as well as the amazing work they have been up to in the heart of Germany.  

15.00 – 16.00 RE-DECAY

The Berlin based Afro, Hip Hop and RnB Duo that have unique style but come together as artist to create a unique experience of music.

ARMC BY DAY 2 – 24th May 2023

MAIN PLENARY

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10.00 – 10.40 The Power of Music Conferences in Driving Regional Music Industries

This panel will explore the role of music conferences in supporting and driving the growth of regional music industries. Music conferences bring together industry professionals, artists, and fans to share knowledge, network, and showcase talent. Through case studies and expert insights, this panel will discuss how music conferences can create opportunities for artists, facilitate collaborations, and contribute to the development of music scenes and economies in different regions. The panelists will also examine the challenges and opportunities facing music conferences in the current digital age, where online platforms and virtual events are becoming increasingly prevalent.

Speakers
Gaurav Narula – Head of Communications WOMEX
Claire Metais – Projects Officer Music in Africa
Philipp Grefer –
Founder WISE Music Conference

Moderator
Michie Malambo – TV/Radio Personality 

10.50 – 11.30 Voices of the Airwaves

Join a panel of distinguished African media personalities – a radio host, a broadcaster, and a podcaster – as they share their unique perspectives on the changing landscape of broadcasting in Africa. Through a lively discussion, the panelists will examine the challenges and opportunities that come with new technologies and shifting audience behaviors, as well as the crucial role that radio and podcasting play in shaping public discourse and cultural narratives. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the strategies and best practices used by the panelists to engage with their audiences and build strong, connected communities. Join us for a fascinating exploration of the diverse and dynamic world of broadcasting in Africa.

Speakers
Mzi Kaka – Academy of Sound Engineering & Hot 1027
Samantha Mogwe –
Radio Presenter
Kutloano ‘Da Kruk’ Nhlapo –
DJ & Radio Host

Moderator
Si Jones – Founder of Si Sessions

11.40 – 12.20 Going International and Staying Independent

Join us for an engaging discussion on the challenges and opportunities of taking your music career international while staying independent, featuring experienced professionals in the music industry. From navigating foreign markets to building a global fanbase, our panelists will share their insights and experiences on successfully expanding your music career beyond your home country. Discover the strategies and tactics used by independent artists and managers to navigate the global music landscape, including digital marketing, social media, and strategic partnerships. Whether you’re an independent artist or manager looking to break into international markets or simply interested in learning more about the global music industry, this panel will provide valuable insights and inspiration for success on the international stage.

Speakers
Xolisa Tshomela – Globalize Yourself Stereo
Azakiwe Jezile –
Producer & Founder of MFENGU RECORDS
Likhona / seventhgaze –
Lilies Radio/Lilies Records
Sandiso Ngubane –
CEO of Mx Blouse Music
Natalie-Rose Perel – Label Owner, A&R Roses Are Red

12.30 – 13.10 Navigating Representation

Representation is crucial for artists in the music industry to build their careers, reach new audiences, and negotiate contracts effectively. However, navigating the complex landscape of representation can be challenging, particularly for emerging artists or those from underrepresented communities. This panel will explore the topic of representation in the music business, covering a range of issues related to artist management, music publishing, and record labels.

Speakers
Aka Kelzz – Artist
Lelo Meslani –
VNJ BALLDirector
Namakau Star –
Artist
Megatronic –
Artist & Founder of Femme Fest

Moderator
Gyre Music – Journalist

14.10 – 14.50 Power of Community in Electronic Music

The panel will discuss the power of community in the electronic music industry and the importance of organizations in fostering that community. Attendees will learn about advocacy, education, networking opportunities, and initiatives such as diversity and inclusion, sustainability, and mental health awareness. The panelists will share their personal experiences with these organizations, offering valuable insights for navigating the industry.

Speakers
Thilini Jayawickrama – Association for Electronic Music
La Vita –
DJ, Paradise Worldwide Label Manager

15.00 – 15.40 The Power of the Pen: How Music Journalism Shapes and Advances Music Culture

In this session we will unpack the role that Music journalism has played in shaping narratives that advance music culture, the current state of music journalism as we know it. Speakers will dive into their respective roles within their genres as well as unpack challenges as well as changes that come with the craft of documenting music as we know it today

Speakers
Shiba Melissa Mazaza – Mount Makeda
Alexis Waltz –
Groove Magazine

Moderator
Choolwe Chibomba – TIMEDIA

16.10 – 17.00 The Future of Music Licensing and Rights Administration in the Digital Age | Curated by MINT

Join industry experts and MINT Digital Services to explore how to improve payments to rights holders and the challenges of managing music metadata in the digital music industry. Topics include multi-territorial licensing, emerging technologies, fair payment structures, improving data accuracy, and legal/regulatory issues. Gain valuable insights into the future of music licensing and rights administration in the digital age.

Speakers
Ralph Boege – Founder. Paradise Worldwide
Sebastian Spring –
Head of Administration, MINT
Mzwandile Sibanda –
Publishing Head, Africa Creative Publishing
Mangaliso Mthembu –
Ncube Incorporated Attorneys

Moderator
Mbali Ndhlovu – Founder, I Know A Guy

DANCE LAB

11.00 – 13.00 Learn to DJ with FUNDI – Brought to you by Pioneer DJ

AlphaTheta, Africa Rising Music Conference and Bridges For Music are coming together to provide two free of charge DJ workshops for Africa Rising Music Conference attendees. Join Fundi and Pioneer DJ Trainers for a free of charge workshop, teaching you the basics of DJing, covering beatmatching, EQ management, effects and transitions. Please note, you must have an Africa Rising Music Conference delegate pass to join this session. Spaces are also limited and you will be contacted with further information if your application is successful. Sign up only!

PARADISE PENTHOUSE

15.00 – 16.00 Navigating Artist Deals and Advances

THis is a closed-door discussion for music managers to share their experiences, strategies, and best practices related to artist deals and advances. In this session, participants will engage in an open and candid dialogue on topics such as:

  • When to offer advances to artists and when not to
  • Negotiating fair and equitable artist deals
  • Balancing the needs and expectations of artists and labels
  • Maximizing revenue streams for artists and managers
  • Protecting artists’ rights and intellectual property

Through case studies, real-life scenarios, and interactive discussions, participants will gain practical insights and actionable tips to help them navigate the complex landscape of artist deals and advances. They will also have the opportunity to network with other experienced music managers and build meaningful connections in the industry.

Special Guest
Jake Beaumont-Nesbitt – Artist Manager / Executive Director International Music Manager Forum
Daan Determeijer – International Membership Development Buma Stemra

Speakers
Mike Kelly – Snr Label Manager Paradise Worldwide
Ralph Boege – Founder Paradise Worldwide

 

STUDIO

13.10 – 18.00 Searching for Paradise

Want to get your sound out to the world? Join Searching for Paradise to get an opportunity to work with international producers in-studio and release with Paradise Sound System!

HUB

12.30 – 13.10 The Sound Mind

Join us for a panel discussion on the importance of addressing mental health in the creative industry. With creatives at a higher risk of developing mental health challenges, normalizing the conversation around mental health can make a significant difference. Our discussion will highlight the role of programs like The Sound Mind mental health awareness workshop in providing resources and support to manage mental health challenges and improve overall well-being. Let’s work towards creating a more supportive and mentally healthy community in the creative industry.

Facilitator
Naimah Global

 

14.00 – 15.00 Navigating the Artist Visa Process in Germany

This panel will offer valuable insights and tips for anyone looking to enter Germany, including information on the changing legal dynamics of immigration law, initiatives to attract skilled migration, and navigating the visa process. With Moosburner’s extensive experience in the German Federal Foreign Service, attendees will gain a unique perspective on entering Germany with confidence.

Speakers
Namakau Star – Artist, Community Development Paradise Worldwide 
Johannes Moosburner – Head of the Legal and Consular Section German Embassy Pretoria 
Mike Kelly – Snr Label Manager, Paradise Worldwide 

 

THORN

11.00 – 12.30 Meet Berlin Partner & BMC

Join us for a closed networking session with Berlin Partner and the Berlin Music Commission, the leading organizations supporting the music industry in Berlin. This exclusive event is a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and key stakeholders in the Berlin music scene. Discover the latest developments in the music industry in Berlin and learn about the support and resources available to artists, managers, and other music professionals. Registration is required for this event. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your network and gain valuable insights on the music industry in Berlin.

14.00- 15.30 Zambia Speed Networking

Join the Zambian delegates to know more about their culture, experiences in the music business and how they have been navigating in the music industry.