Strengthening Seattle’s music ecosystem with MXR:SEA

The sun was shining down on Occidental Mall in Pioneer Square as we set the stage - quite literally - for our third MXR:SEA workshop. The August workshop focused on the music industry and is one of a six-part series of workshops bringing Seattle's creative economy professionals together for networking, learning, and resources.

Mayor Bruce Harrell, Jace ECAj, and Felicia Loud of Black Stax kicked things off by welcoming everyone. Mayor Harrell shared how we're revitalizing Downtown neighborhoods like Pioneer Square through the Downtown Activation Plan and how our vibrant creative economy plays an important role in building the future of Downtown and Seattle.

DJ ANZO took things over to lead the industry panel discussion. He and the four cross-industry experts - Terry Morgan of Modern Enterprises, Ricardo Frazer from Zaki Rose Creative Agency, Heather Johnson of Sub Pop Records, and Anthony Ukaogo, Jr. of Laidback Allure - had a thoughtful conversation around the music sector and adjacent industries like nightlife, market, and fashion. Panelists delved into the business of music and addressed essential topics such as licensing, talent buying, and navigating contracts.

The conversation highlighted the importance of understanding and accessing recourse, including physical spaces and funding, to bolster creative small business ventures. A key theme emerged around unlocking one own's individual voice and to seek mentorship for ongoing growth opportunities. By knowing where to seek guidance, small business owners unlocked new networks and forged valuable connections that create more economic opportunities.

Off the stage, our small business partners offered educational opportunities through the Business 101 and Career Development workshop. Attendees learned about funding opportunities, commercial space openings, and other educational opportunities from the Seattle Music Commission, The Residency, Downtown Seattle Association, 4Culture, Allied Arts Foundation, Shunpike, and Sub Pop.

The evening also included live demonstrations showcasing creative professionals in action, including:

• The Art of DJ'ing with Miguel Rockwell and Lace Cadence
• Small Business, Big Ideas with Smilebooth
• The UpNUp Live Broadcast at Frederick Holmes and Company Gallery
• HOMETEAM and Darkalino's, the MXR Official After Party host

All in all, we enjoyed connecting with a cross-section of Seattle's multifaceted creative economy and sharing the unique strengths of the local arts and culture scene. We hope to catch you at the next mixer! Learn about MXR:SEA and sign up for the next event.