Open call: 2027 Africa Rising Music Conference artists and speakers

The seventh edition of the conference will bring together artists, music professionals, entrepreneurs, cultural leaders and other industry stakeholders for discussions, workshops, networking sessions, showcases and live performances.

The call is open globally and will accept applications from 5 October to 31 December 2026.

Artist applications

ARMC is inviting applications from artists, live acts, DJs and other music-makers interested in being considered for its 2027 live programme and showcases.

The conference is seeking artists from across Africa and its diaspora, including emerging and established independent acts with distinctive creative identities.

Selected artists will have the opportunity to perform as part of the ARMC 2027 programme before audiences, industry professionals and potential collaborators.

Artist applications: Apply here

Speaker applications

ARMC is also seeking artists, executives, entrepreneurs, innovators and cultural leaders to contribute to its conference programme.

Applicants can propose discussions and presentations addressing issues affecting the development and sustainability of the African music industry. Suggested areas include:

• Artist development
• Rights and royalties
• Technology and innovation
• Touring and music exports
• Funding
• Live music
• Entrepreneurship
• Sustainable career models

The organisers say they are particularly interested in practical knowledge and perspectives that can contribute to discussions about the future of the music industry.

Speaker applications: Apply here

About ARMC 2027

The 2027 conference will be held at Johannesburg's Constitution Hill on 21–22 May. The programme will focus on connecting African talent and music businesses with international industry networks.

ARMC also says its programme will continue to focus on female leadership, independent artists and other communities that remain underrepresented in the music business.

Berlin-based music executive Meike Nolte, who has previously attended the conference, said: “I’ve been to many conferences and this is quite special. Everyone is super enthusiastic, you get to meet people who are go-getters and it’s great to see the level at which people operate here. People have taken a lot of thought into their careers and are taking everything into their own hands.”