
2025 NAMM Show Unveils Key Initiatives at Annual Industry Insights Address
ANAHEIM, Calif., Jan. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — At the 2025 NAMM Show, the world’s largest gathering of the global music industry, NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak delivered the highly anticipated “Industry Insights” address to thousands of attendees. This annual keynote at the Anaheim Convention Center provided a deep dive into initiatives designed to strengthen NAMM’s global membership and bolster the music industry’s future.
The event also marked the announcement of a number of strategic resources and initiatives aimed at guiding the industry toward continued success in 2025. Key highlights from the address included:
AI Innovation Study: A Look Back
NAMM has worked closely with Forrester®, a leading global research firm, to commission a groundbreaking AI innovation study throughout 2024. The findings, centered around customer experience in the age of AI, are designed to offer valuable insights for members navigating the digital transformation.
Introduction of the Annual Impact Report
The formal launch of NAMM’s first Impact Report was announced, offering an in-depth overview of the organization’s activities in 2024 and a look forward to the opportunities in 2025. The report is now available for download.
NAMM NeXT Returns to Nashville
After a successful debut in 2024, NAMM NeXT, an immersive leadership summit, will return to Nashville from June 30 to July 1, 2025. The event will offer industry leaders an exclusive program focused on growth and leadership. Registration is already open, but spaces are limited.
NAMM D.C. Fly-In
NAMM will once again lead a delegation to Washington, D.C. for its 19th annual Fly-In, scheduled for May 5-8, 2025. This event allows NAMM members to advocate for music education and ensure full funding for federal programs supporting music education. The Fly-In also includes training to empower delegates as leaders in music advocacy at the state level.
NAMM’s Top Policy Priorities
The organization continues its commitment to its three key policy priorities: Music Education Advocacy, Workforce Development, and Business Compliance. Detailed updates on these priorities are available for members at namm.org/policy.
The NAMM Foundation’s Expanded Grantmaking Program
The NAMM Foundation has significantly increased its grantmaking efforts, investing $750,000 in global initiatives to foster the creation of more music makers. This includes an expanded version of the “Consider a Career in Music” initiative, designed to introduce young talent to the music industry. Additionally, the NAMM Foundation has increased its scholarship program by 50%, supporting 152 collegiate students at the 2025 NAMM Show.
Special Recognition for Fire Relief Efforts
The NAMM Foundation made its first disbursement from the LA Wildfires Relief Fund during the event, awarding $10,000 to Lana Negrete and Outreach Through the Arts. Negrete, the Mayor of Santa Monica and NAMM Board member, will use the funds to support music students affected by the recent Palisades fire.
Industry Leadership Recognized
At the address, Dinah Gretsch, EVP and CFO of the Gretsch Company, was presented with NAMM’s prestigious Music For Life Award. Other notable figures, such as Christine Schyvinck of Shure, Beth Heidt of Gibson, and Gabe Dalporto of Guitar Center, were in attendance to share their perspectives on the industry’s future.
The “Industry Insights” address was followed by the packed NAMM Global Media Day, where leading brands in music, sound, and entertainment technology made groundbreaking announcements. Attendees can look forward to an exhibition featuring 1,850 exhibitors, 4,400 brands, and over 250 educational sessions, covering everything from retail and live events to professional audio and music education.
With live music performances, award events like the Parnelli and TEC Awards, and networking opportunities throughout the show, the 2025 NAMM Show promises to be an unmissable event for the music industry.
For more information, visit namm.org.