Berklee's Rethink Music Features Major Industry Leaders

second annual Rethink Music conference happening today and Tuesday at the features business leaders from major companies like YouTube and Spotify, along with big-name artists, workshops, panels and more.

The conference is open to anyone interested in the music industry. Rethink Music will address trending topics like direct-to-fan artist issues and streaming services’ impact on the industry. The second edition of the conference brings an increased focus on live-learning workshops and panels with acclaimed artists throughout the event. Creative marketer and best-selling author Seth Godin will present the keynote speech.

Monday

Today, world-renowned DJ and producer DJ Spooky holds a session on the musical breakdown of the electronic music’s intricate genre and how he is using technology to promote his career. Also on Monday, the resurgence of music videos will be discussed with the group Karmin, explaining how the convergence of video and music has become an integral part in fostering growth and establishing an artist's career.

Tuesday

GZA / The Genius of the iconic group Wu-Tang Clan will address maintaining success as a legacy artist. The day culminates with the release and discussion of a studio collaboration between acclaimed electronic group Thievery Corporation and Berklee Electronic Production and Design students.

The final roster of artists and outstanding personalities and speakers taking part in Rethink Music 2012 now include: 

• Mike Bebel, Global Head of Music, Nokia

• Bill Werde, Editorial Director, Billboard

• Amanda Palmer, artist

• Cathy Merenda, Vice President of Music Publishing, Twentieth Century Fox

• Len Schlesinger, President, Babson College

• Zahavah Levine, Director of Content, Android

A key part of Rethink Music’s goal of fostering innovation and new ideas for the music industry, the Genesis Project startup competition will recognize new concepts, technologies and businesses which can move the music industry forward.

The Genesis Project’s finalists are now announced:

• “Promoter” by Sam Taylor - A bridge between artists and their hardest working fans.

• “That Was My Jam” by Kristin Hill - A new web service helping music enthusiasts create a personalized music timeline.

• “Have You Heard?” by Joey Seiler - Leverages the listening data available on music-streaming platforms to benefit both fans and artists.

After an in-depth review by Rethink Music’s academic partner and recognized specialist in researching entrepreneurship in the music industry, Babson College, the winner will be announced during Rethink Music’s closing ceremony and will receive $10,000 in legal services from the Genesis Project’s sponsor, renowned law firm Duane Morris. 

The Rethink Music 2012 updated program-at-a-glance is available online and registration is open, with special rates for students and musicians.