The Music Business Association (Music Biz) is teaming with GLAAD, the nation’s LGBTQ media advocacy group, to present the “Trendspotting: The Power of Queer Storytelling in Song“ panel, which will be held May 17 at 9 a.m. CT during the Music Biz 2018 conference at the Omni Nashville Hotel in Nashville. Led by GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis, the panel will gather leading artists and songwriters to discuss the importance of LGBTQ representation in the music industry, both lyrically and behind the scenes. Panelists will include Justin Tranter, a GLAAD board member and award-winning songwriter, musician, and activist; Shane McAnally, CEO of SMACKSongs and an award-winning Country music songwriter and producer; and Shea Diamond, an up-and-coming singer and songwriter.
“I believe the sheer power of song has the ability to unite people through a shared, innate appreciation of words and melody,” said James Donio, President of Music Biz. “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the artistic and business contributions of those who are illuminating the full breadth of the human experience are nurtured and represented. We are thrilled to welcome GLAAD as a program partner again this year to help us highlight the work of LGBTQ individuals in our industry, and call for even more opportunities for participation as we move music, and the world, forward.”
“Music has the power to move hearts and minds, and we are seeing a new level of inclusion take shape in the industry. I’m thrilled that GLAAD is partnering with Music Biz to bring this important conversation to the conference,” said Ellis. “I am looking forward to hearing what these inspiring and groundbreaking creators have to say about the past, present, and future of LGBTQ inclusion in the music industry.”
Registration for Music Biz 2018 is open now at musicbiz2018.
