2021 Highlights
The 4th Annual DC Music Summit was held across a 3-day span, executed as a hybrid virtual and in-person event. Over 250 DMV-based attendees, session leaders, panelists, and volunteers joined us online, and 30 attendees, vendors, session leaders, and volunteers attended in-person at the Eaton Hotel in Washington, DC. Major sponsors included PorchfestDC, the DC Office of Creative Affairs, We Act Radio, Catharsis on the Mall, Born Brown, TTJ Productions, and The Pocket.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 #VirtualDCMS was themed “The Year to Empower” to encourage creative entrepreneurs to move forward during the pandemic, and continue along a collective journey to artist empowerment.
Participants included GRAMMY®-nominated artist, mix engineer, producer, and educator Carolyn Malachi as Keynote Speaker, and uplifting programing including
The Business of Getting a Major Label Quality Mix For Artists (and Mix Engineers)
Project Management: How to Steer Your Passion Project from Mission to Execution
The Musician's Guide to Creative Wellness
Maximizing Your Artist Brand: Creating Unique Digital Marketing Strategies
Tools & Programs to Empower Youth During the Pandemic
The summit included 20 mini-interviews via Instagram Live, and introduction of“DCMS Speaks” on IGTV. The premier Music Industry A-Z” panel—including DC music industry experts included:
Reesa Renee, Independent Artist
EZ Street, WHUR DJ and Music Industry Educator
DJ Heat, DJ for Washington Mystics and Wizards and 92Q DJ
Stephanie Mathis, Entertainment, Copyright and Trademark Lawyer
Elise Perry, Music Producer and Film Director
Malachi Robinson, Creative Director of Suitland Arts Center
Debórah Bond, Artist and D.C. GRAMMY Chapter Governor
MaSheva King, Owner and CEO of Zimari Entertainment Group
Attendees described the 2021 summit as “well-organized,” “engaging,” having “great community vibes,” and “quality speakers and the wide range of information provided.” Quotes from attendees:
“DC Music Summit was a fantastic event with a mix of educational sessions, discussion panels, and artist performances,” Arvind Venugopal, Musician, Podcaster
“As always, you keep your events informative, empowering and poppin!!! This year definitely didn’t disappoint!!!” Kim Dynasty, Music Media
"I cannot stress how important it is to build and maintain relationships with organizations like this and the passionate and committed individuals making events like this possible,” Daniel Hill, Musician, Music Media
“I feel connected and inspired!” Krista O'Connell, Musician
