The highly anticipated 5th Annual International Soul Music Summit (ISMS) was officially announced for 2010, promising an enriched experience for enthusiasts of independent soul music. Scheduled to take place from August 19th to 22nd in Atlanta, Georgia, this premier music conference will be hosted at the prestigious Hyatt Regency. Known as the largest music conference in the world dedicated to the independent soul genre, ISMS emphasizes culture, lifestyle, and business networking, catering to artists, executives, and fans alike.
Strategic Collaboration with Peachtree Village International Film Festival
A significant highlight of the 2010 event is its collaboration with the Peachtree Village International Film Festival (PVIFF). This partnership will enable ISMS registrants to participate in workshops led by prominent figures in the film and television industries. Past PVIFF events have featured renowned personalities such as Malcolm Lee, Roger Bobb, and Jeff Byrd, offering attendees unparalleled opportunities for networking and creative collaborations. ISMS Executive Producer and Creator, Terry Bello, expressed confidence that this synergy would elevate the commercial potential of soul music while fostering innovative partnerships between artists and industry leaders.
Growth and Evolution of ISMS
ISMS has experienced exponential growth since its inception in 2006, when it was launched by veteran radio programmer Terry Bello with just 500 participants. Attendance has increased by 50% annually, reaching over 2,500 attendees in 2009. The summit has become a vital platform for high-impact panels and workshops featuring mainstream, emerging, and independent soul artists, as well as tastemakers, retailers, and consumers. Sponsors such as The Recording Academy, SoundExchange, HBO, The BBC, and The US Census Bureau have contributed to the event’s global influence.
Supporting Independent Soul Artists
Conceived as a forum to showcase neo-soul talent and address trends in the genre, ISMS emerged during a pivotal time when many artists transitioned from major record labels to independent operations. The summit remains an industry leader in promoting innovative marketing strategies and technologies that empower independent artists. Its reputation for introducing groundbreaking concepts has attracted a diverse range of participants, from emerging talents to Grammy® Award nominees and winners.
Notable Participants and Milestones
Over the years, ISMS has featured some of the most celebrated figures in soul music. Eric Roberson, recognized as the most successful independent soul artist in the United States, headlined the 2009 conference and received a Grammy® nomination for Best Urban Alternative Performance. Other notable participants include Raphael Saadiq, Dionne Farris, The Tony Rich Project, Ann Nesby, and Jaguar Wright, whose debut album Denials, Delusions and Decisions was acclaimed as the best CD of the decade by the Associated Press.
A Global Celebration of Soul Culture
ISMS continues to serve as a beacon for independent soul music, offering a dynamic space for artists to connect, learn, and thrive. By fostering a community that values artistry, innovation, and collaboration, the summit not only enriches the genre but also brings global attention to a vibrant and diverse cultural movement. For more information on the 2010 International Soul Music Summit, visit www.soulmusicsummit.net.
