Longtime rock and punk promoter John Reese and author and RockStar Marketing creator Craig Duswalt have joined forces to launch the Disrupt Artist Management Network (DAMN!), an artist management and event production platform that plans to launch a new podcast and educational event.
That event, called Breaking Into The Music Industry, is a two-day conference “designed to inspire and educate aspiring artists, entrepreneurs, college students, and industry professionals,” a press release reads. Scheduled for May 1-3 in Palm Springs, Calif., the event will feature “top music executives and industry leaders offering mentorship, actionable strategies, and insider knowledge to attendees.”
Breaking Into The Music Industry will feture dozens of speakers including Live Nation global tour promoter Rich Best; Guns N Roses, Velvet Revolver and The Cult member and Rock N Roll Hall of Fame inductee Matt Sorum; CAA agents Kasey McKee and Ryan Harlacher; 5B Artist Management founder/CEO Cory Brennan; record producer and musician John Feldmann; festival producer Sean Akhavan; and author and radio/TV personality and host Matt Pinfield.
DAMN! will also encompass an artist management company with three acts under management: LA-based alternative metal band Thredge, Florida-based metal outfit Chained Saint and L.A.-based alt-rock group Of That Nature.
“We are thrilled to launch Disrupt Artist Management Network with such talented and inspiring bands,” said Duswalt. “Our mission is to elevate artist management with a holistic, artist-focused approach. These artists represent the bold, innovative spirit we aim to amplify.”
Reese added, “Music has the power to inspire, connect, and transform lives. Through DAMN!, we’’e committed to helping artists realize their full potential by providing the support and strategic guidance needed to thrive in today’s evolving music landscape.”
