ASU: Music Industry Career Conference 2025 | ASU Popular Music

ASU: Music Industry Career Conference 2025 | ASU Popular Music

Step into the heart of the music industry at Arizona State University's state-of-the-art facilities in Downtown Phoenix for an unforgettable experience. This event is where the present meets the future—bringing together trailblazing music professionals, aspiring creatives and cultural leaders to engage, inspire and redefine the industry.

Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of music, from current trends and opportunities to bold ideas that will shape the sounds and strategies of tomorrow. Whether you’re looking to connect with industry experts, develop your craft, or spark new possibilities, this is your moment to make your mark and help shape the next era of music.

Don’t just observe the industry—be part of the movement shaping its future. 

ASU Popular Music Program

The Popular Music Program at ASU is a contemporary, industry focused degree program that prepares students for today's music industry by creating multi-disciplinary creative professionals that are entrepreneurial, collaborative and lifelong learners. Rooted in the vision and charter of ASU and the New American University, we measure ourselves not by whom we exclude, but by whom we include and how they succeed.

Location

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Phoenix's thriving cultural scene, ASU’s Fusion on First is a cutting-edge facility bringing together the worlds of Music, Fashion, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation under one roof. Situated just steps from Roosevelt Row—Phoenix’s premier arts district—this dynamic space is at the epicenter of the city’s burgeoning arts, music, and culinary scenes.

The Popular Music program and conference are perfectly positioned in this vibrant hub, surrounded by iconic venues, local restaurants, and art spaces, making it the ultimate destination for creative minds to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of the industry. Fusion on First isn’t just a building—it’s a launchpad for bold ideas and groundbreaking talent.

What to expect

This is your chance to network with top industry professionals, including representatives from Def Jam and TIDAL Music, and hear exclusive knowledge from a music icon whose influence has shaped the sound of a generation. 

This year, we’ve reimagined our approach to ensure the Music Industry Career Conference remains inclusive while delivering unmatched value. With a variety of options designed to suit different needs, this event offers incredible opportunities to learn, connect, and grow.

Open to the public and promoted through media partners and digital outreach, this event is designed to welcome a diverse and dynamic community of attendees.

Looking to enhance your experience? Don’t miss the chance to level up with Studio and Listening Sessions, offering personalized insights and hands-on opportunities to refine your craft and take your career to the next level. This isn’t just an event, it’s your gateway to the future of music.

Industry professionals

• Timbaland, Grammy-winning Producer, Songwriter and Innovator (Keynote Speaker)
• Buddy Strong, Producer, Keyboard, Dave Matthews Band
• Tuo Clark, 9 x Grammy nominated Producer and Music Industry Exec 
• Joey Manfre, Vice President, Global Creative, ROLAND
• Drew de Leon, Co-Founder, Chief Community Officer, The Digilogue / DigiLabs
• Simon Jay, Writer, Producer 
• Laura Camacha, VP of Focusrite Group US 
• Alex Silverman, Little Lion Management 
• Jaycen Joshua, Engineer, Canton House Studios
• Sabrina Seids, Singer, Songwriter, Producer, Content Creator and Educator
• Bryn Bliska, Producer, keyboardist, sound designer
• Iz Avila, x4 Grammy award winner, Producer, DJ, Entrepreneur, Co-Founder of Beats By Dre, 1/2 of The AVILA BROTHERS
• Patrick Ermlich, Artist Coach 
• Erin Barra, Director of ASU Popular Music Program, Executive Director of Beats By Girlz, Writer, Producer
• C. Samuel Peña, Assistant Director and Clinical Assistant Professor of ASU Popular Music Program, founder of AZ Beat Lab and more.

Panels and conversations

The music industry is a dynamic and interconnected ecosystem that’s constantly evolving. Our conference panels and discussions are designed to inspire meaningful engagement, fostering education, dialogue, and opportunities for growth. Through thought-provoking conversations and moments of deep listening, attendees will gain fresh perspectives, build connections, and explore the future of music together.