After a sold-out debut in 2024, Chicago Music Nexus is coming back this fall. The one-day event will take place on November 22 at The Joinery and promises to build on last year’s momentum with new speakers, expanded programming, and a continued focus on empowering the next wave of music industry talent.
Networking and Education
The Chicago Music Nexus (CMN) is an annual industry event held in the birthplace of house music, created to connect and educate the next generation of electronic music artists and professionals. Through panels, networking, and hands-on programming, CMN offers participants tools, insights, and opportunities in an industry that’s often hard to break into.
Pros On Panels
This year’s lineup includes names like ARC co-founder John Curley, Wasserman agent Daisy Santow, and underground artist Ky William. They’ll join other industry professionals on panels, covering everything from how to actually make money in dance music, to what it takes to go from a local favorite to a touring artist.
Co-founder of CMN Olivia Mancuso says that the goal hasn’t changed:
Nothing replaces the power of in-person connections. We started this because moments that can change your career shouldn’t be so rare.” – Olivia Mancuso.
Breakout Artists in Breakout Stations
Alongside the panels, the 2025 edition adds new breakout stations designed to give attendees practical tools. Artists can get a 60-second PR pitch revamp with Seattle DJ Petey Mac, snap a professional headshot with Crystal Lotus Studios, or showcase their music through Trackstack.
Behind the scenes
Chicago Music Nexus was founded by Chicago based artist, DJ, and podcast host Sherm and industry consultant Olivia Mancuso. Both are well known in the dance music scene for championing artist education and helping newcomers get their foot in the door. They share a vision that is the basis for Chicago Music Nexus: to create something that feels less like a gatekept industry event and more so, a launchpad.
With its mix of seasoned voices, professional advice, and hometown pride, Chicago Music Nexus is quickly cementing itself as one of the most relevant and meaningful music conferences in the U.S., and it’s only in its second year.
For more information on Chicago Music Nexus, check out their official website.
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