RETURNING NOVEMBER 2026
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RETURNING NOVEMBER 2026 ✶
WE UNITE THE ELECTRONIC MUSIC INDUSTRY AND FOSTER CAREER ADVANCEMENT THROUGH ACCESSIBLE EDUCATION AND MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS AS NORTH AMERICA’S PREMIER DANCE MUSIC CONFERENCE.
What people are saying about Chicago Music Nexus…
“The best event I’ve ever been to for Networking”
As an artist who is super self critical and always working on my projects, I have been spending the last year or more heavily working on defining my own sound and perfecting my demos which each can take weeks to months to completely dial down to my personal preference. The demo panel really was everything I was looking for out of the event. I really truly needed that feedback as I only have a handful of colleagues and friends that can understand my projects let alone provide constructive criticism and positive feedback that I needed to hear to help evolve my career and further development my sound. The higher insight and industry trailblazers’ perspectives were definitely super helpful. Especially when I believe in the 10k hour rule and listen to my own music for hours every day possible. Thanks so much again this was the best event I’ve ever been to for networking & further developing my music career.
- Woo, Artist
“I was amazed”
Chicago Music Nexus brought together some of the most kindhearted and inspiring people from the electronic music industry. People who were there to learn, grow, connect, and soak up as much as possible. I was amazed at how many people traveled from other cities and I loved the opportunity to engage in programming and with peers. It was fun and educational all at the same time. Sherm and Olivia did a GREAT job. I will be back.
-Racket Club, Artist
“Leveled Up”
CMN genuinely leveled me up. I earned a chance connect with agents, managers, and artists I normally wouldn’t have access to, and the panelists gave me real strategies I’m ready to apply to my 2026 plans. Sherm and Olivia created a space where independent artists can actually learn, ask real questions, and build meaningful relationships.
-Breauxx, Artist
“Every event leaves me more confident”
Chicago Music Nexus has been a game-changer for me. The panels Olivia and Sherm put together are insanely valuable. Hearing real strategies directly from people in the business has helped me understand the industry on a deeper level. The networking alone is worth it; getting to connect with panelists and other artists in the room has opened doors I wouldn’t have had access to otherwise.
Every event leaves me more confident in my artist journey. The tools, insights, and connections they provide give me the push I need to keep leveling up. I’m genuinely grateful for what they’ve built.
-MARVL, Artist
“Chicago Music Nexus blew me away.”
I walked in looking to learn and walked out genuinely inspired. The energy in the room, the openness of everyone there, and the quality of conversations made it feel like I found my people. I met so many incredible artists, creators, and industry minds who are truly shaping the music scene.
Huge shoutout to Oliva and Sherm for creating a space that’s equal parts educational, supportive, and electric. Their passion for community and music culture shows in every detail. If you’re even remotely curious about growing in this industry or connecting with like-minded creatives, CMN is the place to be.
10/10 Highly recommend. -Van Dyke, Artist
About chicago music nexus
Chicago Music Nexus made history with its sold-out 2025 edition, welcoming over 200 attendees with more than 50% traveling from out of town—including artists from Canada, both U.S. coasts, and Germany. 2025 featured panels with ARC co-founder John Curley, Wasserman agent Daisy Santow, and demo feedback sessions with Chicago legends Terry Hunter and Hiroko Yamamura.
Our sold-out events demonstrate the urgent need for accessible, high-quality industry education and networking in the electronic music space. With support from Pioneer DJ, BandLab, TrackStack, and BeatBox Beverages, Chicago Music Nexus has established itself as a vital platform for industry growth and community building.
As we look toward the future, we're expanding our vision with enhanced programming, interactive brand activations, and more opportunities for meaningful connections that advance electronic music careers.
