Set in the prestigious Brighton i360 complex on Brighton Beach, the award winning Brighton Music Conference (BMC) became a hub for the next generation of talent in electronic music. Delegates at the 11th edition basked in glorious sunshine and blue skies whilst enjoying a packed programme of insightful talks, workshops and networking events with over 200 speakers, plus the legendary pod parties on the iconic Brighton i360 observation tower.

“We always wanted to create an accessible event that everyone can enjoy and feel welcome.” says BMC founder Billy Mauseth. “We love supporting the next generation of talent and helping them on their career journey. BMC is like a family, with a relaxed and friendly vibe where everyone can come together to learn, be inspired, network and enjoy amazing music and DJ sets.”

The official BMC Welcome Party kicked things off on Wednesday 22nd May at the Tempest, one of Brighton’s best loved beach bars. Hosted by AFEM the event gave attendees the opportunity to network and enjoy the sunset and sea views with music courtesy of Mr C, Mutiny, Amber Jolene (Live PA), Queen B and Sarah France.

Day 1 highlights included a Keynote interview with Danielle Moore and Chris Todd from Crazy P, Bushwacka!, Harold Heath and Brandon Block who spoke about the topic of DJs and Neurodivergence and the ever-popular DJ and Producer Q&A sessions featuring artists including Justin Robertson, JFB (DMC World Champion) Mr C, Particle, Sally Rodgers from A Man Called Adam, Smokin Jo and SYREETA.

Drum & Bass was also at the forefront of the BMC programme with a deep dive into the history of DnB powerhouse Shogun Audio to celebrate their 20th anniversary plus an in-depth Q&A with the team behind the mighty Hospital Records. Other popular sessions included talks on AI & Your Audience, DIY, PR & Marketing, Sync, Radio, Vocals and Resident DJs.

Networking is also a big part of the BMC ethos. The sunset sessions got things started on the i360 roof terrace with an all star female line up of Carly Wilford, Just Her, Sarah Monument and Zoe Vice followed by BMC’s legendary Pod Parties in the i360 observation tower hosted by Hospital Records and Bushwacka!, plus a very special show from Keynote speakers Crazy P at The Arch.

Day 2 started off with a healing sound bath, before launching into another full day packed with essential panels, speakers, and parties. Aspiring producers were treated to two sessions on A&R and What Are Labels Actually Looking For? where the likes of Anjunadeep, Hospital, Tru Thoughts, Beatport and The Orchard helped to explain the process of getting music signed.

DJ Paulette, Hillet Kolet and Funk D’Void featured in another popular DJ Q&A Session with the Producer Q&A featuring A Guy Called Gerald, Just Her, Saytek and Shadow Child and the highly anticipated Keynote with Erol Alkan in conversation with DJ Mag editor Carl Loben.

Other popular sessions included Get Played, Get Paid, Podcasts, Drum & Bass masterclass with DJ Sappo, Frankie Knuckles ‘Your Love’ Track Breakdown, an emotional discussion on Rhythm & Resilience presented by Last Night A Dj Saved My Life plus a very lively discussion on Why the F*** is Counter Culture Less Important than Classic Culture featuring Carly Heath (Night Time Economy Advisor Bristol), Keith Reilly (Fabric), Steven Brains (HE.SHE.THEY), Irvine Welsh (Author/Label Owner) and moderated by Michael Kill (CEO NTIA).

After the talks and panels were done the exclusive i360 Pod Parties took to the sky once again with Fabric and Erol Alkan, who later took to decks with Funk D’Void at The Arch.

This year BMC also presented the new and improved ‘A&R Sessions’ which featured over 30 labels across different genres giving more opportunities for immediate feedback with leading A&Rs in the electronic music industry. Headed up by the prolific DJ and music producer Steve Mac the ‘A&R Sessions’ featured over 30 labels including Axtone, Armada, Critical, Data Transmission, Defected, Glasgow Underground, Helix Records, Hospital, Inflyte, Jack Said What, Krafted, R&S, Toolroom. The A&R Sessions was a sell out success, with a high quality of tracks being submitted and several signings during the event. 

“My first time at BMC was a fantastic experience. I found the opportunity to meet directly with the A&Rs of labels invaluable and it was great to make connections throughout the day at various mixers and panel discussions. Will definitely come again next year!”

Angel LeeIf that wasn’t enough the official After Party took place on Saturday 25th May.  BMC Presents G3T LOO5E at the Bunkr with DJs SAYTEK Live, Larnie,  Nina Carina, Lebby, Chema Gonzalez b2b Brunonumerouno Robin.

The BMC team would like to give a huge shout to all those who have helped make the conference such a resounding success; their brilliant team of staff, everyone at i360, the fantastic panellists, artists and DJs, the many venues across town hosting our parties, club nights and networking sessions  – and of course, all of the attendees. 2025 dates will be announced soon.

BMC – Where Beats Means Business.
More info on BMC here brightonmusicconference.co.uk

H/T N.M.