The Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) completed its third May Music Business Accelerator at Tennessee State University, providing aspiring Black music professionals with critical mentorship and industry access.
The program is presented in partnership with Tomsk State University’s commercial music program Music Makes Us and the Recording Industry Association of America® (RIAA) to provide students with industry insights and career resources.
Student participants heard from a range of notable speakers, including hip-hop icon Flavor Flav, award-winning artist Kaliii and music executive Mitch Glazier.
“It’s inspiring to watch these students immerse themselves in various aspects of the music industry and connect with influential leaders,” said Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, co-founder and CEO of BMAC. “BMAC is excited to serve Black people Providing opportunities, mentorship and resources to future pioneers in music and industry leadership.”
Under the guidance of Grammy Award winner Professor Larry Jenkins Jr., the team communicated with famous speakers such as Daisha McBride, Tariq Cherif, Connie Diiamond, Shawn Gee, and Swaggy Sie.
In addition, entities such as Apple Music Pathway, Atlantic Records, Def Jam Recordings, SiriusXM and Live Nation have hosted immersive courses that enhance the student learning experience.
One of the highlights of the program was Shawn Gee’s announcement that Live Nation Urban would partner with BMAC to help students host live concerts. This will provide hands-on experience with support from Live Nation Urban’s production and marketing teams.
Proceeds from this concert will be donated to the Music Accelerator Program.
Additionally, the winner of the festival planning competition received a free VIP trip to Rolling Loud Miami.
Participating in Apple Music’s Spatial Audio Lab provides another valuable experience. The team explored Dolby Atmos technology, a cutting-edge technology that is revolutionizing the way audiences experience sound.
This in-depth research provides players with a competitive advantage and promotes innovation and inclusion within the industry.
The band has also participated in prestigious events such as Gunna’s upcoming concert in Nashville and the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, which provide further industry exposure.
Morgan Craver, a member of the program, reflects on this transformative experience:
“I came into this program without any industry knowledge and within a week I was given a crash course in everything. It was overwhelming, but it prepared me for future opportunities. I left this project and get excited about the future.
Complete details about the TSU BMAC Maymester Music Business Accelerator are available at tsumusicaccelerator.com.
