#United States #Music Industry #NAMM Show #Anaheim, California #John Mlynczak

The 2025 NAMM Show: A Hub for Music Industry Innovation

The 2025 NAMM Show is currently taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center, welcoming thousands of attendees from around the world. As the largest global gathering of the music industry, this year's show features a keynote address by NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak that focuses on key resources and initiatives designed to empower NAMM members for a booming year ahead.

A Look Back and Ahead: Innovations in the Industry

During his address, Mlynczak reflected on the achievements of 2024, particularly highlighting the NAMM-commissioned AI Innovation Study in collaboration with Forrester®, a leading market research firm. The study aimed to provide NAMM members with valuable insights into consumer experiences in an age dominated by artificial intelligence.

Launch of the Annual Impact Report

Another significant announcement was the launch of NAMM’s Impact Report. This comprehensive document provides a detailed overview of how NAMM has fulfilled its mission over the past year, as well as insight into upcoming opportunities for 2025. Members can access this vital report online, ensuring they're well-informed about NAMM's initiatives and progress.

NAMM NeXT Returns to Nashville

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, NAMM NeXT is returning to Nashville from June 30 to July 1. This summit will provide industry leaders with invaluable insights into leadership and growth tailored for today’s rapidly changing market. Registration is now open, but spaces are limited, reflecting the high demand for such enriching experiences.

Advocacy Efforts Through the NAMM D.C. Fly-in

In its 19th year, the NAMM D.C. Fly-in continues to be a platform for advocacy, focused on music education funding and the importance of federally-supported music programs. Scheduled for May 5-8, 2025, the event will empower attendees with training essential for leadership at both federal and state levels, ensuring sustained advocacy throughout the year.

Policy Priorities and Global Grantmaking

Mlynczak also presented NAMM's three key policy priorities: Music Education Advocacy, Workforce Development, and Business Compliance, emphasizing NAMM’s commitment to staying engaged with public policy issues. Furthermore, the NAMM Foundation has ramped up its efforts to support music education through its Global Grantmaking Program, allocating $750,000 to foster initiatives that create more music makers. The expanded Reach to Consider a Career in Music initiative aims to inspire upcoming talent by presenting music as a promising career path.

This year’s NAMM Show also proudly welcomed its new Executive Director, Julia Rubio, whose leadership has already led to an increase of $315,000 in contributions to the foundation from various stakeholders within the industry. This financial support underscores the growing commitment of the community to cultivate future generations of music industry leaders.

Supporting Fire Relief Efforts

Further highlighting its community engagement, the NAMM Foundation announced its first disbursement from the LA Wildfires Relief Fund, awarding $10,000 to Lana Negrete, a notable figure in music education and the Mayor of Santa Monica. The funds will aid local students affected by recent fires, enabling them to continue their music lesson and replace lost instruments.

Industry Leaders Taking the Stage

The event featured a lineup of influential figures in the music industry, including CEOs and executives from well-known brands like Shure, Gibson, and Guitar Center. A standout moment was the honoring of Dinah Gretsch, who was awarded the prestigious Music For Life Award for her outstanding contributions.

The Road Ahead at NAMM 2025

Looking forward, the NAMM Show features over 1,850 exhibitors representing more than 4,400 brands, along with over 250 educational sessions tailored for various audiences from retailers to non-profit leaders. The program also includes recognition events like the Parnelli Awards and TEC Awards, which celebrate excellence in the industry. So much excitement awaits music lovers and professionals alike as they join together to embrace the future of music.

Qualified media and professionals in related fields may still register on-site, ensuring that all voices can be heard within this vibrant community. For more details, attendees are encouraged to visit the NAMM website for the latest updates.

The National Association of Music Merchants, or NAMM, plays a vital role in the $19.5 billion music products industry, advocating for the growth and the nurturing of a passion for making music worldwide. With over 10,000 global members, NAMM's commitment to the music community continues to be unwavering as it gears up for another productive year ahead.