Chicago Music Nexus, New Summit for Artists and Industry Professionals, Launching in 2024

by Michael Ryan · Published May 8, 2024

Sherm and Olivia Mancuso are setting a new standard for industry collaboration in the birthplace of house music.

The Windy City-born DJ and Elevated Frequencies podcast host are readying the inaugural Chicago Music Nexus event, a new summit promising to bring together artists, industry professionals and entrepreneurs for networking, education and electronic music discovery sessions.

"The US dance music scene is blossoming and growing at an extremely rapid pace—there is no denying its relevance anymore," Sherm explained in a press release shared with EDM.com. "Younger generations are pursuing careers in music but with little understanding or knowledge on how to actually make their passion a career. Chicago Music Nexus has one purpose—to provide resources and knowledge for artists, entrepreneurs, and professionals in the music industry to collaborate and ensure the future continues to remain bright in the US. Chicago is where it all started and we’re incredibly excited to launch such an impactful event."

Sherm and Olivia Mancuso.
Crystal Lotus Studios/Olivia Wolf

Panels at Chicago Music Nexus will tackle topics such as "Monetizing Your Personal Brand: Beyond the Booth," where discussions will focus on diversifying income streams through social media, merchandise, subscription services and licensing and sync deals.

Elsewhere, the "Adapt or Die: How to Stay Relevant as an Artist" panel will delve into evolving artistry, imposter syndrome, mental health and setting the pace as a trendsetter. Meanwhile, "Building Your Dream Team: Roles, Title, & Strategy" will guide artists through assembling an effective team, balancing self-management with professional expertise and financial planning for their careers.

The Sherm In The Booth podcast host has a knack for offering helpful commentary on the state of the scene, demonstrated most recently during his participation in the "US Tech House Scene And What's In It For You?" panel at the record-breaking 2023 Amsterdam Dance Event.

Sherm and Mancuso are poised to launch the inaugural Chicago Music Nexus on November 23rd, 2024.