The Island Music Conference IMC was established to nurture the growth of Caribbean music worldwide, connecting stakeholders, artists, songwriters, producers, and musicians within the global music industry.

The Island Music Conference presented for the second year during “Reggae” Month at the Courtleigh Auditorium in New Kingston, Jamaica. The annual music symposium is the brainchild of Orville “Shaggy” Burrell, Sharon Burke of Solid Agency, and media consultant Judith Bodley.

IMC founders pulled out all the stops, securing partnerships and procuring Jamaica's biggest names and global music organizations while curating panels and workshops to drive music careers to greater levels.

The star-studded event, known for its amazing live entertainment and celebrity participants, welcomed Wyclef, Mya, Sean Paul, and others.

After years of building his career to become a global superstar, Shaggy is paying it forward by helping Caribbean artists navigate the complexities of the music industry. Shaggy’s passion is to reform the music business in Jamaica. Shaggy’s massive contribution to the development of Jamaican music and solid work ethic have cemented him among the most respected and recognized Jamaican acts worldwide.

The Chairman’s Diner convened on February 21. Guests enjoyed an exquisite five-course meal under the stars at the historic Devon House, East Lawn, hosted by Wayne Marshall and featuring electrifying live performances.

Keynote speaker Shaggy, emphasized that the IMC will continue to provide a platform for music professionals to gain experience, cultivate alliances, share knowledge, and gain from networking opportunities. Shaggy shared the importance of artists being well-prepared when pursuing a music career. The IMC team collaborated with industry giants to support their mission by educating Caribbean artists, producers, songwriters, managers, and other music stakeholders about the industry. Shaggy shared that many in the music industry are not aware of the myriad of tools available to music professionals that can significantly impact the trajectory and outcome of their careers. The IMC aims to change that.

The following day, IMC started with four days of global top brass music industry discussions. Panelists included professionals from Warner, Roc Nation, United Masters, Ebony, Grio, Meta, Spotify, and Epic Records among others.

Topics ranged from strategic marketing, songwriting, understanding contracts, commercial success, organic movement, collaboration opportunities, building global alliances, and mastering performances. The IMC was rich with workshops focused on money, asset management, investment, and wealth. Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the music industry, the nuances of publicity, branding strategies, artist management, and digital marketing were some of the new topics at the 2024 conference.

The founders of IMC believe that the entertainment industry provides the means for changing the lives of millions. IMC’s educational and economic development for the music business is a conduit to regional integration and poverty reduction in the Caribbean.

Attendees participated in an immersive two-day songwriting workshop centered on the art of crafting impactful pitches and songwriting. The workshop was led by renowned producer and songwriter Mikie Bennett, who guided participants through an immersive journey, educating aspiring artists and songwriters to enhance their skills and creativity.

The prominent music executives and practitioners who shared insights into crucial global music topics. There were keynote addresses from Vivian Scott-Chew, who will present on “The Making of Shabba Ranks: The Untold Story, and Wyclef Jean, about the topic “Sync- Music Licensing is the Future”.

Dancehall star Teejay and Ghanaian superstar Stonebwoy joined forces with iconic names such as Wyclef Jean, R&B singer Mya, Reggae artiste Jesse Royal, filmmaker Jay Will, T&T soca artiste Kes and SVG’s Skinny Fabulous.  Sean Paul, Masicka, Konshens and Queen of Reggae Marcia Griffiths.

The Island Rock Concert opened with Island Vibes, a showcase of young Caribbean talent and the “I Am Chippy pop-up” with performances by: Stonebwoy, Kemar Highcon, Yohan Marley, Matthew Malcolm, Jamila Falak, Sara Couch, Kuzikk, Giomar, Heavyweight Rockaz, Joe Davis, Hannah, Kofi Black, and others.

The event culminated with Independent Films, “Caribbean Music and Film,” with accompanying screenings of Short Films from the Caribbean and the Jamaican Premiere of the feature “Bad Like Brooklyn Dancehall.”

The conference's intimate nature provided an unparalleled platform for artists and professionals to engage with industry leaders ensuring a personalized and impactful experience.

The Island Music Conference is an informational hub for artists and music professionals in Jamaica, throughout the region, and beyond. IMC was founded in 2023 by Orville “Shaggy” Burrell, who co-founded it with Judith Bodley and Sharon Burke.

The IMC is geared towards Caribbean music growth within the global music industry, supporting participants with resources and educational information for longevity and success.

https://www.islandmusicconference.com/

Photo Credit: Calligrafist, Nigel Telesford