2025 Featured Panels
At Chicago Music Nexus 2025, we've carefully curated our panel topics based on direct feedback from last year's attendees. Our goal is simple: deliver the most pressing, practical information you need to succeed in today's music industry.
No abstract theories or high-level overviews - these panels drill down into specific, actionable strategies you can implement immediately. Our expert panelists share real experiences, specific examples, and concrete steps to level up your career.
Whether you're ready to tour beyond your hometown, looking to deepen fan connections that translate to opportunities, or seeking ways to diversify your income, you'll leave with clear action items and implementable solutions - no matter where you are in your journey.
Ready to take your DJ career beyond city limits? This panel brings together experienced artists and industry professionals to map out the essential steps for evolving from local favorite to touring artist. Learn what a professional DJ career actually looks like in 2025 - from landing your first out-of-town bookings to managing successful mini-tours.
Going Global: Your DJ Career Blueprint
Our panelists will share real experiences and practical advice on:
Breaking into new markets
Essential tour prep: from tech riders to travel logistics
What promoters and venues look for in touring acts
Building lasting industry relationships that lead to bookings
Common pitfalls that derail touring careers
Real costs and revenue expectations on the road
Whether you’re eyeing your first out-of-town gig or ready to expand your existing tour schedule, you'll leave with a concrete roadmap for your next career move.
Panelists:
Ky William
Artist & Andhera Records Label Boss
Ky William's ascent into underground house music is hardly surprising, given his upbringing in Brooklyn, a city rich in musical heritage. He has built a reputation as one of New York's premier selectors and most promising music producers. Ky's sound is underpinned by deep grooves and hip hop influences, inspired by his humble beginnings.
In a short time, Ky has become an accomplished producer with notable releases on KneeDeep In Sound, Solid Grooves, Experts Only, and his own imprint, Andhera Records. His work has garnered support from industry titans, and he has performed alongside Jamie Jones, Loco Dice, The Martinez Brothers, John Summit, Michael Bibi, and Hot Since 82. Ky has performed both domestically and internationally on major stages, including his hometown venue, Brooklyn Mirage. Meanwhile, his label, Andhera Records, has become renowned in its own right as a purveyor of deep, minimal house. Since its inception, the label has amassed over one million streams and consistently charted in the Beatport Top 10, demonstrating Ky's innate ability to A&R and deliver underground hits consistently.
Mario Danza
Owner, Define Group
Mario Danza is the founder of Define Group, a management group for dance music artists. He also runs a network of over 2M followers across his digital work for DJ Lovers Club, EDM Lifestyle, and EDM Lovers Club. On top of all of that, Danza does programming for TTYL Events.
Daisy Santow
Booking Coordinator, Wasserman
As a Booking Coordinator at Wasserman Music, I specialize in supporting a dynamic roster of electronic artists while also working closely with a select group of bands. With over five years of experience in the live music industry, I play a key role in routing tours, managing calendars, and assisting with marketing components and advancing shows to ensure seamless execution from planning to performance.
I bring a collaborative and detail-driven approach to every project, helping artists and agents navigate the fast-paced world of live entertainment. My work is grounded in strong organizational skills, clear communication, and a passion for music that drives me to support impactful live experiences.
Wasserman Music, a division of Wasserman, partners with some of the most iconic names in sports, music, and culture — and I'm proud to be part of a team shaping the future of live entertainment.
Social Media Secrets for Creators
What really drives a passionate, engaged community in dance music? This panel cuts through the noise of viral trends and vanity metrics to reveal how successful creators build fanbases that actually show up - both online and at shows.
Our panelists will share battle-tested strategies for:
Creating content that turns followers into superfans
Building a sustainable content strategy that preserves your mental health
Storytelling techniques that keep fans invested in your journey
Converting social engagement into ticket sales and real revenue
Identifying the metrics that truly indicate career growth
Leveraging fan content to build community organically
Whether you’re just finding your voice online or looking to deepen connections with existing followers, you'll learn proven tactics for building an authentic community that supports your career growth.
Panelists:
Emma Kapotes
Content Creator & Podcaster
Emma Kapotes is a content creator, podcast host, and the Senior Community Manager at BeatBox Beverages. Through her platform Rave Culture Cast, Emma has become a trusted voice in the scene—educating, entertaining, and connecting fans around the world with thoughtful content and conversations.
From YouTube festival guides and TikToks featuring new music, to podcast episodes spotlighting rising talent and industry leaders, Emma’s mission is to deepen fans’ appreciation for rave culture and provide resources for navigating the ever-evolving festival landscape. She’s also known for fostering authentic community engagement—whether it’s via Discord channels, Twitter Spaces, livestreams, or panels.
With a strong track record of collaborating with top brands in the dance music space and experience hosting live interviews, artist features, and media events, Emma brings a well-rounded, energetic presence to every project she touches.
Hope Lansing
Co-Founder, Calculated Creative
Hope Lansing is a Los Angeles-based creative professional specializing in artist management, marketing, and brand development. With over ten years of experience, she has turned her love of music into a career, working alongside some of her best friends in the industry. After earning her BA in Biology from the University of North Florida, Hope’s career took a turn when she discovered her passion for dance music, sparking a journey that began with throwing shows to help pay her tuition and evolved into a full-fledged career in event production and marketing.
Hope, alongside her partner Jason Adamchak is the co-founder of Calculated Creative, a top-tier marketing and branding agency specializing in worldwide artist and event marketing, management, and high-impact campaign strategy. With a sharp focus on driving audience engagement and amplifying brand visibility, she helps lead innovative initiatives that turn creative concepts into sold-out shows and unforgettable cultural moments.
Proppa
Artist
These days, no house DJ’s flash drive is complete without a “Proppa Treatment.” Chicago native producer Proppa is quickly becoming a hot topic in electronic music. His remixes have earned support from the industry's heaviest hitters—his 2024 breakout year was fueled by viral remixes of Waka Flocka Flame's “Grove St. Party” and A$AP Ferg's “Work,” alongside his chart-topping cover of “Always On Time.” Inspired by the hype rap of the 2010s, Proppa’s DJ sets deliver meticulously crafted blends and unforgettable moments. He’s your favorite producer’s favorite producer, and he’s set to make a lot of noise in 2025.
Back by popular demand - our Adapt or Die panel series returns!
In today's challenging economic landscape, successful artists must be savvier than ever about money. This no-holds-barred discussion breaks down the real costs and revenue opportunities in dance music, offering both a reality check and concrete strategies for building sustainable income.
Adapt or Die: The New Economics of Dance Music
Our panelists will share unfiltered insights about:
The real numbers: Actual costs of touring, marketing, and growth in 2025
Smart monetization: Turning your brand into business opportunities that make sense
Financial planning: Building long-term stability in a volatile industry
Revenue diversification: Building multiple income streams that complement your artistry
Investment strategy: Where to allocate resources for maximum career impact
Brand partnerships: Creating authentic collaborations that resonate with fans
Join industry veterans for a transparent conversation about money in dance music. Learn proven strategies for adapting to modern economic realities without compromising your artistic vision.
Panelists:
John Curley
Co-Founder Auris Presents
Dan Mueller
Artist & Founder, GM Wealth Partners
Dan Mueller is a rising star in the underground house music scene and a seasoned financial advisor who uniquely bridges both worlds. As a DJ and producer with releases on Coco, Desert Hearts, and more, his music has topped Beatport charts and earned support from top-tier artists like James Hype and Green Velvet. Off the decks, Dan co-founded GM Wealth Advisors to help creatives and professionals align their money with what matters most—because he knows firsthand the stress that comes with managing finances as an artist. With a passion for both sound and strategy, Dan empowers others to thrive in their creative and financial lives. Based in Asbury Park, NJ, he's also a community leader, cancer charity board member, surfer, and Jiu Jitsu enthusiast.
Rami Riashy
Artist & Founder, RITUALS
Rami Dabura is a Chicago-based DJ, creative director, and event producer known for crafting immersive experiences that bridge music, stage design, and cultural expression. As the founder of RITUALS, he’s created a series of thoughtfully curated events that unite international artists, dynamic performances, and intentional environments across unconventional spaces throughout the city.
Driven by a deep passion for music, movement, and human connection, Rami’s work lives at the intersection of sound, aesthetics, and community. His approach blends traditional and contemporary culture—often exploring themes of ceremony, symbolism, and transformation. As a DJ, his sets are emotionally charged and rhythmically rich, known for their deep, percussive, and melodic layers that tell a story and move a crowd.
Over the years, RITUALS has evolved into a platform for artistic collaboration and meaningful exchange, built on a foundation of bold creativity, cultural sensitivity, and a relentless commitment to creating spaces that feel both elevated and grounded in belonging.
Want to get press, booked, or noticed? Tell Petey how you're pitching yourself—and he'll make it stronger in 60 seconds.
Pitch Perfect:
60-Second PR Makeovers
At this interactive station, you'll have the opportunity to workshop your actual pitch with an industry PR veteran. Simply share how you'd email a label, blog, or promoter, and receive immediate, actionable feedback to make your outreach more effective.
You'll walk away with:
Professional insights on what's working in your current approach
One strong, implementable takeaway you can use immediately
Specific suggestions to make your pitch more clear, concise, and compelling
About Your Coach
Petey Mac
Founder, PGM PR
Petey Mac brings 14+ years of music industry experience to the table, beginning his career as a writer for Your EDM before founding PGM PR in 2018. After years of building relationships with journalists, artists, and managers, he expanded his expertise by working with a major NYC PR firm handling campaigns for Claptone, Pendulum, and Disco Donnie's festivals. Petey has secured features in Billboard, Forbes, NPR, DJ Mag, and Uproxx for his clients, specializing in uncovering artists' authentic stories and communicating them to wider audiences. His current clients include Fox Stevenson, bitbird, Deep Tropics Music Festival, Same Same But Different, and more. With a proven track record of securing press that creates tangible career impact, Petey is uniquely positioned to help you refine your pitch for maximum effectiveness.
Special Presentation by Trackstack!
More information coming soon!