BIGSOUND Unveils Massive Speaker Announcement

BIGSOUND has revealed a massive speaker announcement for its 2023 event, kicking off in Brisbane from 5 - 8 September.

Australia’s largest, longest-running music conference and showcase event unveils its first announcement of speakers and buyers today, including Andy Kalyvas from Netflix, Ash Stahl from Flighthouse, Cabrea Casey from Downtown Music, Hazel Savage from Soundcloud, Interscope’s Michele Ronzon, ROC Nation’s Omar Grant, JKBX’s Scott Cohen, and Vanessa Palmer from Paramount.

Grant, an American music industry juggernaut, was once the road manager for Destiny’s Child, and now Co-President of JAY-Z’s ROC Nation and A&R genius behind Rihanna’s globally acclaimed eighth album ANTI. The influential music industry leader is making his BIGSOUND debut.

“Australia is at an exciting place right now musically, and I can’t wait to head down under to discover some great new artists,” Grant said in a statement. 

“Some of the most innovative artistry in the world comes from Australia, and in an industry that’s often so caught up online these days, getting in a room with passionate music people and discovering real talent performing live is a true privilege.”

Ronzon, an A&R Coordinator at Interscope/Geffen/A&M Records, manages an A&R roster including Machine Gun Kelly, YUNGBLUD, and Alesso, as well as a management roster for producers Ian Fitchuk (Kacey Musgraves, Stephen Sanchez, Maggie Rogers) and Chris Greatti (YUNGBLUD, WILLOW). 

“We approached this year’s BIGSOUND with a singular vision: deals mean meals,” BIGSOUND programmer Tom Larkin revealed. “Every person we are bringing to Australia can further an artist’s career immeasurably.

“Whether that’s formalising a global partnership or simply giving them a piece of advice that could transform their ability to create a sustainable career. BIGSOUND 's focus is to provide real results for Australian artists.”

Over 100 international and national buyers, agents, music supervisors, bookers and industry decision-makers are expected to touch down in Brisbane for BIGSOUND.

Queensland Minister for the Arts, Leeanne Enoch, said, “The careers of hundreds of artists have benefitted by taking part in this iconic event, and BIGSOUND 2023 promises to deliver another hugely successful program.

“Each year, BIGSOUND draws a vibrant collection of industry leaders, speakers, buyers, and musicians from the local and international music community.”

Enoch continued, “The recently announced increase in funding from the Queensland Government will further boost BIGSOUND’s global reputation and programming to include the best talent and industry leaders from around the world, showcasing the incredible First Nations arts and established and emerging artists that Queensland has to offer.”

Early bird delegate passes for BIGSOUND go on sale this Wednesday, 26 April, at 9 am. Artist applications for BIGSOUND are also now open, with the window to apply closing on Tuesday, 2 May. Apply here.