Terry Golden has emerged as a prominent figure in the Electronic Music scene, celebrated for his distinctive sound and style, along with a steadfast commitment to his career. Following this year’s Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), Terry took a moment to reflect on his experiences at one of the most significant music conferences globally. By prioritizing networking over performances at ADE 2024, he shares insights on how such events are influencing the future of the industry.
We had the opportunity to sit down with Terry to discuss his highlights from ADE, his views on the evolving music landscape, and his aspirations for the future of both the conference and Electronic Music.
Hi Terry Golden, how are you?
I’m feeling great, but also very busy after ADE – and I’m just fully focused on achieving my goals.
To start, can you tell us about your experience at ADE this year?
This year’s ADE was my best and most rewarding year. This is my 5th time attending, and I had some outstanding meetings and made fantastic new connections. There was a palpable energy with many visitors, and a genuine willingness to meet new people.
Which events or sessions stood out to you the most and why?
This year was 100% networking for me, with less emphasis on lectures. I attended some engaging speed dating events and participated in fantastic label nights where I met many interesting people.
Were there any trends or ideas that caught your attention during the conference?
Of course, there was a significant focus on AI, with many lectures highlighting its impact on the industry.
With several events across multiple venues, ADE can be overwhelming. How did you decide which events to attend?
As I mentioned, my main focus was networking. I spent considerable time at Andaz, where I had pre-scheduled meetings confirmed through the Pro platform.
Did you discover any emerging artists or genres during ADE that surprised or inspired you?
Honestly, no, but that wasn’t my primary focus. There were certainly plenty of talented individuals present.
In your opinion, how do you think the event is helping to shape the future of Electronic Music?
I believe it’s essential to have a central gathering point for the industry at all levels. However, I wish there was more openness from established artists and labels to mentor new talent and help them advance.
ADE is a prime networking opportunity. Did you make any new connections that you think will influence your work moving forward?
Yes, I made numerous new contacts. My goal was to find one or two agents, and it seems I’ve succeeded. I also reconnected with old friends and formed new friendships, which will undoubtedly make a difference.
Can you share what you most enjoyed about your time in Amsterdam this year? Do you have a favorite part about the city?
I appreciated the intensity surrounding ADE, with everything centrally located within walking distance. It’s something unique that Amsterdam offers, which not many cities can match.
As an attendee, what would you say sets ADE apart from other global music conferences and festivals?
While many events have parties, ADE stands out for its excellent learning opportunities and the chance to meet new acquaintances and potential partnerships. It’s also much larger than any other event.
Did you perform at any events for ADE this year? If so, can you share how you found the experience?
I had two great opportunities to perform, but I chose not to, as it would distract from my focus on finding new agents.
What do you hope to see from ADE in the future, both as an attendee and a professional in the Electronic Music industry?
Unfortunately, I feel that the large commercial events overshadow the essence of ADE, making it somewhat too commercial. I wish for it to return to a less formal and more organic atmosphere like it was in previous years, as the current climate dampens the overall experience.
Terry Golden’s reflections on ADE provide a personal view of navigating one of the industry’s most critical networking platforms. His commitment to forging meaningful connections and thoughtful observations about the event’s development underscore his dedication to advancing his career and nurturing the integrity of the Electronic Music community.
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