Credit: Musically
The conference is set to bring together speakers from across the entire music ecosystem. Global heavyweights like UMG (Universal Music Group), WMG (Warner Music Group), BMG, Roland, and the gaming giant Riot Games will be represented. Their presence underscores a central theme: the deep integration of music and technology is no longer an innovation—it’s the foundational business model, with conversations increasingly focused on the practical application and ethical oversight of technologies like AI.
A major highlight is the “Swimming With Narwhals” startup contest, which showcases the next generation of music innovation. This year’s four finalists offer diverse solutions for modern industry challenges:
- Music League: A music discovery game that gamifies finding new sounds.
- Plates: A dedicated marketing startup aimed at streamlining artist promotion.
- Roxxem: A unique platform that uses language-learning to engage with music.
- Sesh: A fan-engagement startup built to help artists own, grow, and monetize their fan communities.
This quartet of finalists illustrates where entrepreneurial energy is being spent: on making discovery easier, marketing smarter, and fostering deeper connections between artists and their listeners.
Ultimately, the Music Tectonics 2025 program provides a clear snapshot of the industry’s focus. The future of music is being defined by a collaborative effort between major labels, tech innovators, and investment firms. From the courtroom debates surrounding AI to the grassroots efforts of fan engagement startups, the event promises to reveal the strategies needed to navigate and capitalize on the digital revolution. If you want to understand the new fault lines in the music business, this Los Angeles conference is the place to be.
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