This weekend’s second Music Econ Summit in Grand Rapids drew attentive musicians and songwriters for guidance in career development from industry experts across Michigan.
Guidance From the Experts: Duke Charelle provided valuable instruction on working with a label. (Photo/Local Spins)
NOTE: As part of “VENDOR DAY,” admission to today’s final day (Sunday) of the 2025 Music Econ Summit features free admission, with merchandise on sale and information available from a dozen music-related enterprises — from Crack House Studios and Rap Roots Media to Local Spins, Sounds of the Zoo, Mitten Music and WYCE. It takes place at the Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation, 1530 Madison Ave. SE. Details, vendor list here.
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More than 150 Michigan musicians, songwriters and others attempting to make their way through the often-thorny thicket of the complex music industry found a wealth of information and guidance Saturday during the second annual Music Econ Summit.
Staged by the Michigan Music Alliance at the Center for Cultural Transformation in Grand Rapids, industry experts lent their expertise on a variety of subjects – from working with record labels and booking agents to securing grants and sponsorships to tips for success in the fast-changing music environment of the New Millennium.
Established and emerging acts not only soaked in information to aid their careers and ensure that their music rights are protected, but also got a chance to enjoy a variety of regional artists during an evening showcase featuring everything from hip hop’s Steven Malcolm and Sonny Ski to electronic music artists Pablo Eskobear and Ethereal to bands such as Citizen Keen.
(Saturday’s programming followed a Friday night performance showcase by a host of regional artists hosted by Lady Ace Boogie, Ruben Martinez and Push the City Cypher, with sets by Valentiger Caitlin Cusack, Sosa Benzo and others.)
“It’s been great so far,” said veteran singer-songwriter Josh Rose. “I love it.”
A well-attended afternoon panel featuring hip-hop artist Steven Malcolm, OPNR CEO Andrea Wallace, Lucci Entertainment owner Dan Colucci, Crack House Studios operator Cracka Lack and WYCE music and program director Chris Cranick — moderated by Local Spins publisher John Sinkevics — offered critical advice to artists finding their footing in the business.
The messages were clear: Be authentic with your music, build your brand, own social media, tell your unique story, develop and lean on your network.
“It starts with an idea and the concept of ‘I’m going to make this the best thing I’m going to make,’ ” Colucci said of the importance of having a plan as a songwriter and recording artist. “There’s no half-step in this business and it is not a part-time business, and if you want to make it as a part-time business, then you’re going to be a part-time artist.”
Added Malcolm: “Social media is key. We are in a social media era. … How are you going to galvanize a fan base? Social media is huge. If y’all ain’t doing that, y’all aren’t going to make it as artists.”
PHOTO GALLERY: Music Econ Summit
Photos by Chelsea Whitaker and John Sinkevics
