Sonic Futures Launches “Into The Industry”: A Major One-Day Music Event For Aspiring Talent In Tees Valley

Backed by Warner Music UK and in partnership with the Rio Ferdinand Foundation, the event will connect emerging talent with major industry figures.

Sonic Futures, the innovative Tees Valley-based music initiative, is proud to present Into the Industry, a dynamic one-day event designed to inspire and empower the next generation of music talent.

In collaboration with the Rio Ferdinand Foundation and with the support of Warner Music UK, this exclusive industry-focused experience brings together key figures, emerging artists, and local creatives for a day of exchanging knowledge and networking. Sonic Futures is supported by Tees Valley Combined Authority, delivered by Generator and Tees Music Alliance.

Taking place on Friday 13th June, this event is set to welcome both national and local industry speakers to Darlington’s Hullabaloo, and The Forum.

This event is tailored for emerging artists, aspiring managers, and anyone interested in entering or progressing within the music industry. Packing six panels into the day and a networking session to finish, there’s ample room for connecting with industry insiders and peers alike.

From ‘Live Music: Pathways Into Promoting’ to ‘Marketing & Release Management’, and ‘The A&R Journey’ – a range of career pathways will be covered with real-world advice. Confirmed speakers include Charlie Smith (Head of Marketing, Warner), Chelsea Wood (Founder, Wood Management), Shakk Hashimi, (BBC Introducing), Adam Cutting (A&R and Label Operations, Interval Records), and more. Warner Music UK’s Tony Harlow will also deliver a keynote speech to inspire the next generation of industry leaders.

Mick Ross, Generator & Interval Records, CEO: “Into The Industry is about creating the opportunity to develop real, tangible pathways for people in Tees Valley to build lasting careers in music.

“It’s not just about talent it’s about access, confidence, and showing what’s possible when you connect ambition and access to industry.

“This event is a key part of Sonic Futures’ mission to grow a sustainable, regionally rooted music ecosystem that expands our talent’s networks and enables knowledge transfer from leading industry professionals.”

Charlie Kemp, Head of Creative Place, Tees Valley Combined Authority, said: “It’s essential that the talented artists and music industry professionals here have access to the very best opportunities to drive their ambitions forward.

“Events such as Into the Industry play a vital role by bringing key industry leaders to our region to provide invaluable insights and guidance – supporting our plan to develop our region as a place where creative careers can thrive.”

Paul Burns, CEO, Tees Music Alliance, added: “Into The Industry sounds like a great addition to the Tees Valley music industry conference calendar for 2025 – and it will be leapt upon by our local talent, who always turn out to music industry events with great enthusiasm.  It’s vital that key music business figures are seen in the area; giving local people the opportunity to fully engage with them and the wider industry, as they navigate their future career paths.”

Sonic Futures is about changing the narrative for talent in Tees Valley.

Funded by the Tees Valley Combined Authority and part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, it’s delivered by Generator and Tees Music Alliance. The programme is projected to add £6million to the local economy and create 120 jobs over the next three years.

Programmes like Breakthrough and Royalties: Set Up & Support have already helped local artists step into national opportunities – from SXSW to The Great Escape. With Into The Industry, Sonic Futures is extending its impact to behind-the-scenes roles – from A&R and management to marketing and technical skills for the live sector.

Into The Industry is free to attend but spaces are limited. Secure your place here. For the latest updates, follow Sonic Futures on social media here