|
2009 Speakers |
 Joakim
'Jay' Baage, VP, ContentDigital Media Wire As VP of Content, Jay wears many hats. He oversees the content in DMW's publications as well as for conferences and other events. Jay furthermore runs the day-to-day operations for the popular DMW news and community site, where he also serves as a Senior Writer. Last, but not least, he works with marketing, public relations and business development across the board for DMW. Jay got into journalism after high school when he served a year of military service in the Swedish Armed Forces and was selected to join its highly regarded conscript writing staff. He has been hooked on working with media and communication ever since. Jay now has over 10 years of experience in the media industry serving in a wide range of capacities - from a technology writer and editor at several newspapers and magazines (Reuters, Dagens Industri, Aftonbladet etc.) to working in television (ABC Good Morning America, TV4 Ekonominyheterna), both behind and in front of the camera. Jay has a Masters Degree in Media, Entertainment and Technology Management from New York University and a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Goteborg University in Sweden. He is a recipient of the Wallenberg Scholarship 2004 and 2006 (Academic Scholarship), The Sweden-America Foundation Fellowship 2005 (Academic Scholarship) as well as awarded a scholarship for being "A Promising New Media Manager" by Swedish Newspaper Publishers' Association 2005 and 2001. Joakim has a keen personal interest in digital media, music and pop-culture. On his desk, you will find a video iPod, the latest issue of US Weekly and a pair of Cutler and Gross shades. He claims to listen to music by Paris Hilton only because he "has to be familiar with mainstream music" while heavily promoting new bands from his native Scandinavia like "Peter, Bjorn & John." |
 Anthony Batt,
President & FounderBuzznet Inc. A music enthusiast, Anthony Batt knew exactly what he wanted to do the moment he was exposed to the Internet. Combining his entrepreneurial spirit with his passion for content and technology, Batt has created a successful career building and designing web and digital media products. Prior to Buzznet, Batt served as Chief Technology Officer for Metapa (now Greenplum), where he raised $17 million in financing and helped develop the company's proprietary software product. On the publishing front, Batt worked for Time Inc. as the Manager of Internet Publishing, where he was responsible for the day-to-day publishing of Fortune.com, Time.com, People.com, Teenpeople.com, Money.com and ET.com. He was also instrumental in the development and launch of his friend Craig Newmark's site, Craigslist, helping to take it from its original format – an email list to acquaintances – to an online destination that has since become a global leader. Batt's career has taken him overseas to Hong Kong and Malaysia where he served as President of Technology and Products for the web development and design company AsiaConnect, and also launched the National Newspaper Radio and Television of Malaysia. In addition, he has done creative and technical consulting work for companies such as Absolut Vodka, TBWA Chiat Day and Amp'dMobile. |
 Rich Bengloff,
PresidentA2IM Rich Bengloff joined A2IM as it’s President in January of 2007. Rich also serves as a board member representing the Independent music label community on the boards of the SoundExchange and the Alliance of Artists and Recording Companies ("AARC"). Rich has spent much of his career in the music and entertainment industry, having served in various capacities at SONY Corporation of America. As Vice President of Columbia Pictures Entertainment; as Vice President, Finance and Administration at Relativity Records/R.E.D. Distribution; and as Vice President, Distribution Operations for Sony Music Distribution between 1989- 1998. He then joined Elektra Entertainment Group to become Senior Vice President/CFO. In 2005, he became WNYC Radio’s Vice President of Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer. Rich holds a BA degree from SUNY–New Paltz and an MBA from Columbia University. Rich also co-teaches the music industry course in the Media and Entertainment Department of Fordham University’s MBA program. |
 Ron
Berry, e-Commerce AdvisorIsle of Man Ron Berry is e-Commerce Advisor for the Isle of Man. The Isle of Man is already a key location for high-tech financial services and is continually developing its legal and technological infrastructure to meet the growing business demands of e-business operations. Its location, telecommunications structure, and low tax environment enable it to attract e-businesses from around the world. The Isle of Man offers secure servers with industry standard telecommunications access to the Internet. Comprehensive support services include complete website design, software, and hardware suppliers, e-business solutions providers and Internet payment gateway facilities, along with international tax and legal advice and company administration services. Critically, the Isle of Man offers the space for businesses to set up their own operations on a small or large scale. The Island has an excellent education system that is preparing pupils for technology-intensive businesses and has, as a result, very high numbers of computers in every school supported by a teaching staff that is computer literate. Businesses are able to relocate key personnel to the Island if required and can access a pool of well-educated and computer-aware individuals. This means that set-up and operating costs on the Island remain competitive in comparison to other island jurisdictions. |
 Aydin
Caginalp,
Partner,
Entertainment & Media GroupManatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP Mr. Caginalp’s practice concentrates on business transactions, including acquisitions, mergers, joint ventures, private equity and general corporate and commercial matters, with an emphasis on international matters, entertainment and new media. He is listed in The Best Lawyers in America. He has worked extensively in the media and e-commerce field in connection with the acquisition of technology companies, music, broadcast and production companies throughout the world. In connection with Internet activities, he has worked in the establishment of ISP services, search engine companies, e-commerce companies and various initiatives involving delivery of music and entertainment products through the Internet, as well as digital rights management. |
 David Card,
Vice President & Principal AnalystForrester Research David serves Marketing Leadership professionals. He is a leading expert on marketing and advertising, media and entertainment, and consumer media behavior. Prior to Forrester, David worked for 10 years at JupiterResearch. He led Jupiter's media and marketing research and acted as VP, research development. Before joining Jupiter in 1998, he was employed at International Data Corp. for nine years and held a variety of positions including director of its consumer Internet and PC software services, where he was IDC's lead Microsoft analyst. Aside from Jupiter Forums, David has
spoken at major industry events such as E3, the
Newspaper Association of America's new media conference,
the PBS/NPR new media forum, Texas University's Online
Journalism Symposium, Digital Music Forum East, Digital
Hollywood, and Software Marketing Perspectives. He is
frequently quoted in the traditional and online press
and has appeared on ABC World News Tonight,
ESPN, and NPR. |
 Ted Cohen,
Managing PartnerTAG Strategic Integrating his widespread digital authority in music, mobile, IPTV and product & service development, Ted Cohen is the Managing Partner of TAG Strategic. In an industry that’s been slow to embrace change, Cohen is the exception to the stereotypical music-exec rule. Of course, when you start a career on the road with Alice Cooper and Van Halen, you're more primed for the unexpected. Known throughout the technology and music industries as being “part ambassador and part evangelist,” Cohen was instrumental in crafting the licensing agreements upon which the Rhapsody subscription service and the iTunes Music Store were built. In his previous role as Senior Vice President of Digital Development & Distribution for EMI Music (home of artists including Coldplay and the Rolling Stones), Cohen led next-generation digital business development worldwide for this “big four” record company, which includes labels such as Capitol, Virgin, Angel/Blue Note, Parlophone and Chrysalis. During that time, EMI led the industry by embracing and exploiting new technologies and business models such as digital downloads and online music subscriptions, custom compilations, wireless services, high-definition audio and Internet radio. In addition to seeking out, evaluating and executing business opportunities for the company on a global basis, Cohen served as both a strategist and key decision-maker for EMI’s global new media and anti-piracy efforts. He worked to establish company-wide digital policies, which have provided EMI’s artists and labels a substantial advantage in the digital music arena. Prior to his role at EMI, Cohen served as Executive Vice President of Digital Music Network Inc., where he co-founded and served as Chairman of the groundbreaking Webnoize conferences. Cohen also led two highly successful new media consulting operations, DMN Consulting and Consulting Adults, attracting clients such as Amazon.com, Microsoft, Universal Studios, DreamWorks Records, Liquid Audio, Wherehouse Records/Checkout.com and various other entertainment, technology and new media organizations. Cohen also held senior management positions at both Warner Bros. Records and Philips Media. A 30-year industry veteran, Cohen was recently elected Chairman of the Mobile Entertainment Forum Americas board, and currently chairs MidemNet, an international music/technology conference convened in Cannes each year. Cohen also serves on the NARAS (Grammy) Los Angeles chapter Board of Governors as well as the national Trustee Board, the Board of Directors for the Neil Bogart Memorial Fund, co-chairs the new media arm of the T.J. Martell Foundation, and lends his time and talents to music & technology education efforts such as the Grammy In The Schools Program. |
 Jim Cooperman,
COOWind-Up Records Jim Cooperman, Wind-Up Entertainment’s Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice-President of Business and Legal Affairs, has been instrumental in designing and implementing the strategic path of the company over the last several years. In addition to overseeing Business and Legal Affairs, Cooperman oversees A&R Administration, Human Resources, Operations, International, Publishing, Licensing and Pronto, the company’s merchandising concern. Prior to joining Wind-up, Cooperman was the Co-General Counsel and SVP, Legal and Business Affairs at BMG. In this position, he was actively involved in devising and actualizing online and wireless opportunities and deal making, handled business affairs for BMG Distribution and BMG Strategic Marketing Group, and spearheaded new world-wide royalty initiatives. He also contributed to pan-label transactions such as on-line catalog licenses, and multi-label joint ventures. After beginning his legal career at the law firm of Kaye, Scholer, Cooperman entered the music industry as a lawyer within the Business and Legal Affairs Department of RCA Records. He thereafter headed up Business and Legal Affairs for Sony Music’s RED Distribution and its sister labels Relativity Records, LOUD Records, and Edel North America. |
Russ Crupnick,
VP, & Sr. Industry Analyst |
Matthew J. DeFilippis
,
Vice President, New Media & Technology
Matt has been a key person in ASCAP’s new media strategy and efforts since the advent of the Internet as a music performance medium in the mid 1990’s. After joining ASCAP as a paralegal in 1993, he was a founding member of ASCAP’s New Media & Technology Department. He was a central participant in the introduction of the industry’s first Internet performance license in 1995 and received ASCAP’s Exceptional Service Award in 1996. In 1998, Matt departed ASCAP, but not the music licensing family, when he joined the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) and its licensing subsidiary, The Harry Fox Agency (HFA), as its Strategic Planning Coordinator. Since returning to ASCAP in 2001, Matt has overseen the organization’s new media licensing operations and strategy, serving as a principle business analyst and negotiator and co-authoring scores of new media licenses. Matt has a B.A. from Columbia University in New York City. |
 Brad
Duea,
PresidentNapster Brad Duea began his love affair with music as a young child through his sisters’ diverse collection of artists, ranging from Fleetwood Mac and Billy Joel to Van Halen and Devo. Brad has since constructed his personal soundtrack through unique playlists on cassettes, CDs and now MP3s that serve as the backdrop to his daily life. As President of Napster, Brad oversees all of the company’s international business endeavors as well as all business development activities worldwide, including the development of Napster’s position in the mobile market. Brad also helps define the strategic direction of the Napster service. Brad has a passion for music and values the Internet’s ability to connect fans with both large and small artists, making his entrance into the digital entertainment world a natural progression. Brad made this transition as Vice President of Worldwide Business Development and Worldwide OEM Sales for Roxio, Inc., where he was responsible for all business development efforts for the company, including international expansion, the acquisition and integration of pressplay (a music subscription joint venture between Sony Music Entertainment and Universal Music Group), the acquisition and integration of MGI Software (which brought the #1 consumer photo and editing products into Roxio’s digital media portfolio) and the development of strategic partnerships, including those with Samsung Electronics, Intel, Best Buy, Gateway and Dell. Prior to joining Roxio, Brad was active in both the technology and customer service industries as the Vice President of Corporate Development for PeopleSupport, Inc., a leading provider of integrated e-customer relationship management solutions. While at PeopleSupport, Inc. Brad raised over $50 million in venture financing, and closed strategic partnerships with industry leaders, such as Hewlett Packard and Siebel Systems, Inc. Brad holds a B.A. in Law and Society, High Honors, from University of California at Santa Barbara, a M.B.A. in Finance and International Business, Beta Gamma Sigma, from the University of Southern California, and a J.D., Magna Cum Laude, from the University of San Diego. He is a member of the State Bar of California and served as a corporate lawyer with O’Melveny & Myers LLP in Century City, specializing in merger and acquisitions for some time. Brad is a devoted fan of The Cult. Having attended almost every local gig, he fondly remembers one show in particular where the opening act was Guns n’ Roses. Brad also has a weakness for influential bands, such as Gene Loves Jezebel, The Clash and Devo. |
 Maria
Egan-Cohen, A&RColumbia Records Maria Egan Cohen was named one of Billboard Magazine's "Power Players under 30" in 2006 and is currently an A&R manager for Columbia Records, the world's largest and oldest record label. She began her career in music as a teenager writing for fanzines and music magazines in the UK which led to a stint as an independent publicist and then artist manager. In 1999 she came to NYC to join boutique management firm Magus Entertainment (whose clients included Aerosmith, Carly Simon, Duran Duran) and in 2002 joined the NYC office of Nettwerk Management where she helmed the careers of high profile alternative and electronic artists. In 2005 she joined Columbia Records and currently A&R's a atable of developing and established artists including Aqualung, Brandi Carlile, Lostprophets, Patti Smith, Nicole Atkins, Mat Kearney, Mew and The Automatic. |
 Tom Erskine,
Director of Global
Sales, Music DivisionNokia Tom Erskine currently hold the position of Director Global Sales within Nokia's Music division and is responsible for driving revenue and new business across Nokia's international footprint. Tom is responsible for monetizing "Comes With Music" and interacting with Nokia's key customers and local markets. Prior to his current position Tom was responsible for Go To Market within the music business a role which involved launching "Comes With Music" in the UK and also launching the Nokia Music Store in 13 markets. Before joining Nokia, Tom worked at MTV Networks as Commercial Director for Digital Media with responsibility for developing MTV's international business in the areas of games and Mobile TV. Tom has also worked for the mobile operator O2 in their Genie Internet division and the digital payment start up Eposs. Tom enjoys supporting Tottenham Hotspur, watching live music and travelling to interesting places. |
 Adam Farrell,
Head of MarketingThe Beggars Group Adam Farrell is a ten-year veteran of the music and advertising agency worlds. While still in his teens, the first concert he ever promoted was Belly and he took Tanya Donelly to see the airplane graveyard in Tucson, Arizona. Coming full circle, Adam now oversees the marketing for Beggars Group, which includes posh indie labels like 4AD, Matador Records, Rough Trade and XL Recordings. He is fortunate enough to have worked with some of his favorite artists like Sigur Rós, Cat Power, Jarvis Cocker, Vampire Weekend and Blonde Redhead. Prior to joining Beggars, he was the director of marketing for Badman Recording Co., an independent record label based in San Francisco best known for slow rock and being bad drunks. Predictably, Adam is also making a foray into film by producing "D tour", a rock 'n roll film about life, death and bodily functions. |
 Mark Fischer,
AttorneyFish & Richardson P.C. Mark A. Fischer is a Principal in the Boston office of Fish & Richardson P.C. His professional start in media was as a copy editor for the publisher Little, Brown while he was in high school. Today, he represents creative companies, universities, and people in the worlds of new media, technology, entertainment, publishing, and computers. His practice emphasizes the law and business of music, motion pictures, electronic commerce, and new media endeavors such as blogs and user generated content. He focuses on transactions, arbitration, and litigation, especially those that involve the Internet, mobile devices, DVDs, interactive entertainment, gaming, other ways of linking entertainment and information with technology, as well as patent licensing in the software, biotechnology, and medical fields. Mr. Fischer's experience includes drafting the first open source software agreement (the GNU Emacs License for the Free Software Foundation), overseeing major corporate transactions, managing large international trademark programs, international licensing, litigating the first moral rights lawsuit in Massachusetts, and successfully agenting musical groups to record labels. Over the years he has represented Oscar-winning documentary film makers, Grammy-winning record labels, best-selling authors, and other award-winning talent. He chairs the firm's Information Technology Steering Committee. Mr. Fischer is also Co-Chair of the firm's Copyright Section, Chair of its New Media & Entertainment Section, Co-Chair of the Interactive Entertainment Practice Section, and Chair of the Licensing Subgroup. Additionally, Mr. Fischer has taught the Advanced Copyright course at Suffolk University Law School for many years. He has also been an Adjunct faculty member teaching the Entertainment Law and Intellectual Property courses at Berklee College of Music, Boston College Law School, Northeastern University School of Law, and New England School of Law. |
 Andrew Fisher,
CEOShazam As CEO of Shazam, Andrew Fisher guides the company's strategic focus to help consumers seamlessly experience music across devices through discovery, transaction and social networking services and leads the execution of this in more than 70 countries across the world. Prior to joining Shazam, Andrew was European MD of InfoSpace Inc. At InfoSpace Andrew led the company's significant European growth, focusing on music and entertainment services for mobile operators and portal solutions for many leading online service providers. Over the past 14 years, he has led the successful growth of a number of technology focused enterprises having founded TDLI.com, which was subsequently acquired for an enterprise value of $400m and as General Manager of Thomson Directories Business Venture. |
 John Fleckenstein,
SVP of InternationalRCA/Jive Label Group John is Senior Vice President, International for BMG Label Group/Sony BMG Music Entertainment. In this role, he overseas international artist development and sales of all artists signed to the BMG U.S. labels. He leads a team who is responsible for international artist development, international mobile/digital/online initiatives, foreign licensing opportunities, and other international ventures. Among the labels comprising BMG Label Group are RCA, J, Arista, Jive, LaFace, Volcano and GospoCentric/Verity. John is based in New York. John has worked within the Music Industry for over 10 years - the bulk of which dealing with the overseas marketplace. After roles in Columbia Records and Ruffhouse Records, John joined the international department of Arista Records in 1998 where he handled many successful international marketing campaigns including that of Santana’s Supernatural which went on to sell over 10million albums outside of America. In 2001, he accepted a position with BMG to oversee marketing and promotion for their Asia-Pacific region, based in Sydney, Australia. In this capacity, he helped launch careers for several artists in the region including that of Avril Lavigne, who went on to sell over 1.5million units in Japan alone on her debut album, and Jay Chou, who remains among the most successful Chinese artists in the world. In 2003, John was offered the opportunity to return to New York as VP, Global Marketing to help revamp BMG’s Global Marketing Department. He played an instrumental role in the development of their successful international system and strategy. In late 2004, he accepted an offer to head the International Department of Zomba Label Group as Senior Vice President. In this role, he helmed successful overseas campaigns for artists such as Bullet For My Valentine, Britney Spears, Chris Brown, Pink and Justin Timberlake. Most recently, in August of 2007, John expanded his role and took on his current title with the merger of his department and RCA Music Group’s international team. John graduated with a B.A in Economics from University of Michigan. |
Mark Ghuneim,
CEO
As CEO of Wiredset, Mark Ghuneim is a
new media visionary with expertise in social
engagement, technology and behavioral trending as
well as marketing for music, television and brands.
Mark launched Wiredset in 2004 as a futuristic
digital agency with the ability to incubate, create
and execute all aspects of digital marketing.
Recognizing the need for real time actionable data
for his clients, Mark oversaw the development of a
proprietary online tracking service that allows for
unparalleled visibility into user behavior and
market intelligence across a myriad of internet
categories such as social networks, search engines
and video sites. With headquarters in New York City
and offices in L.A. and Seattle, Wiredset services
top entertainment properties such as HBO, MTV,
Bravo, Comedy Central, ESPN, Oxygen, Atom Films,
Virgin Records, Universal Music Group, Sony BMG, and
leading consumer brands such as Apple, Microsoft,
Puma and Armani Exchange.
Prior to starting Wiredset, Ghuneim spent 16 years with Sony Music USA, where he was most recently Senior Vice President for Online Services. In that role, he created and implemented online marketing campaigns and was responsible for Sony Music's online sales. As Senior Vice President of Online & Emerging Technologies for Sony's Columbia Records Group, Ghuneim was instrumental in the careers of artists such as Destiny's Child, Jeff Buckley, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and Billy Joel. Mark has pioneered innovations in new media as the music industry has evolved during the past three decades. Before joining Sony, Ghuneim was Director of Press and Video Promotion for the legendary independent label Beggars Banquet Records. In the nascent days of music video, he was program director and production manager at the New York City video night club Private Eyes. Ghuneim frequently moderates panels at top industry gatherings and guest lectures at universities such as NYU's Stern and School of Music in New York City and UCLA in Los Angeles. He has worked as a mentor with the Center of Communications. His work in the Information Securtity Space was feature in Time Magazine and cited by the head of the FBI in addressing national infrastructure vulnerabilities. He has worked with NYCLU and ACLU addressing surveillance in public spaces and Ghuneim’s photographs have appeared in publications such as New Musical Express and the British Music Weekly. Known to many online as Mediaeater, Ghuneim reads 10 print newspapers each morning and 100s online each day in his RSS reader. He resides in the tranquil West Village in Manhattan. |
 David
Goodman, President, Digital Media & Integrated
Marketing CBS Radio David Goodman has served as President, Digital Media and Integrated Marketing for CBS RADIO since December 2007. His responsibilities include developing and overseeing the Company’s digital strategy, as well as creating new content partnerships and monetizing CBS RADIO’s online inventory. He previously was President of Marketing since February 2005. For the past several years, Goodman has lead CBS RADIO’s digital strategy and sales efforts launching online audio streams of all of its stations and several custom channels, and enhancing the websites of the Company’s 140 stations with video, on-demand audio and interactive features. Additionally, he has developed and executed a number of significant sponsorship and advertising opportunities for CBS RADIO, developing multi-dimensional radio platforms for major clients through CBS RADIO’s integrated marketing department. Throughout Goodman’s career he has successfully launched some of the world’s leading music, television and theatrical properties. He has also created award-winning integrated media sponsorship campaigns for a variety of advertisers both domestically and abroad, including American Express, Heineken and AT&T, among others. Goodman joined CBS RADIO from LockStream Corporation where he served as CEO. Previously, Goodman spent six years at the Warner Music Group, Warnervision Entertainment and Warner Bros. While there, he led the drive to produce over 1,100 hours of original programming, making the division one of the leading distributors of music programming in the world. He was responsible for creating VH1’s long running “Hard Rock Live” music series, which included a first-ever global marketing sponsorship for American Express. Goodman also launched the series “Russell Simmons One World Music Beat,” Telemundo’s “Tu Ritmo” and the Emmy-nominated “An Evening with Michael Crawford” on Public Television, as well as numerous other series and specials.
Goodman was
also responsible for launching Saban Entertainment’s
domestic television division. As senior vice president,
domestic television -- overseeing marketing,
distribution, and home video -- Goodman was a key player
behind the innovative strategy that catapulted the
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers into a global phenomenon.
He also developed and launched the popular and
long-running tween girl series “Sweet Valley High,” as
well as developing and overseeing Saban’s programming
partnership with UPN. |
Richard Gottehrer, Founder & Chief
Creative Officer Mr. Gottehrer co-founded The Orchard in 1997 and was among the first industry evangelists of digital distribution. Over the past decade, his influence has helped transform The Orchard from a digital distribution company to a full-fledged global music and film organization with a comprehensive suite of marketing, distribution and media services, simultaneously developing and shaping the way content is distributed and sold throughout the world. |
Michael Hausman,
Artist manager, Co-founder |
Martin Heath,
Chief Executive |
 Dan
Hoffman,
EVP, Business & Legal AffairsRazor & Tie Direct Dan Hoffman is Executive VP, Business & Legal Affairs, at Razor & Tie Entertainment. Hoffman’s extensive career encompasses several years as Senior VP/ Head of Business and Legal Affairs and Administration at Tommy Boy Music (the prominent independent music company then co-owned by Warner Music Group), as well as stints as Senior VP/General Counsel at BMG Music and Senior VP of Business and Legal Affairs at RCA Records. Prior to joining BMG, Hoffman was a Partner in the Entertainment Law practice at the Los Angeles firm Ziffren Brittenham Branca and Fischer. At Razor & Tie, Hoffman oversees all transactions and directs business and strategic development, including key digital and mobile initiatives. Hoffman has supervised all business and legal matters, as well as developing and implementing key operational business strategies in the product development, distribution, international and internet/new technology areas, for both major music companies and successful independents. In his career in private practice, he worked on behalf of The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, The Beach Boys, and many others. He has spoken and delivered presentations at various legal and entertainment industry gatherings including the ABA’s Science and Technology Section, Music 2.0, Midem, CMJ and Canadian Music Week. Hoffman earned his J.D. from NYU Law School, and his B.A., with highest honors, from Oberlin College, where he was Phi Beta Kappa. He is a member of the New York and California bars. New York-based Razor & Tie Entertainment is one of the fastest growing independent entertainment companies in North America. Razor & Tie successfully sells audio and visual content and products through traditional retail distribution, direct response television advertising, e-commerce based websites, and digital distribution. Razor & Tie developed KIDZ BOP, the best-selling children’s audio series. Founded by co-owners Cliff Chenfeld and Craig Balsam, Razor & Tie is a vertically-integrated company that encompasses a record company with major label distribution, a home video company, a media buying company, a music publishing business, an experienced marketing, promotion and sales team, a direct marketing operation and a growing database of entertainment consumers. |
 Frank
Johnson, VP, Data SolutionsMacrovision Frank Johnson joined Macrovision Corporation with the acquisition of All Media Guide (AMG). At Macrovision he is responsible for all sales, strategic direction and key business partnerships for the Macrovision Data Solutions group which includes both AMG and TV Guide data products and services. Mr. Johnson joined AMG in early 2006. Prior to joining AMG, Mr. Johnson worked in several senior management and corporate development roles in the technology and media industry. Most recently, he worked at Knowledge Universe, where he was responsible for developing and initiating strategic opportunities for the portfolio companies, including investment, acquisition and sales opportunities with an extensive focus on new media businesses. |
 Christian Jorg,
SVP, New Media & CommerceIsland Def Jam Music Group / Universal Music Group Christian oversees the business activities of the Island Def Jam Music Group in the online and mobile space. He is also responsible for expanding the company’s business beyond its traditional focus by finding new creative outlets for its artists and building new revenue streams. IDJ artists include Mariah Carey, Kanye West, Bon Jovi, The Killers, Rihanna, Jay-Z and many others. Prior to taking this position, he was EVP, Entertainment at Flycell, one of the world’s leading direct to consumer mobile entertainment companies. Before that he was CEO and co-founder of E-Magine Entertainment, an independent record label. He started his career at BMG Entertainment where he founded the New Technologies department. Christian has an MBA from Columbia University in New York. |
 Don
Kimenker,
Founder & CEOearBuzz.com Don Kimenker is Founder and CEO of earBuzz.com, the online retailer and membership program for independent music artists. Don’s passion for music and innovative thinking continues to transform the music industry for independent artists. earBuzz pioneered returning 100% of royalties to artists in 2000 and in 2005 became the first and only retailer to return 100% of the purchase price to artists on CD sales and HQ downloads. Don has created partnerships in 2009 for earBuzz to be the exclusive music seller for music retailer, Sam Ash, and recently cemented a union with IRIS Distribution powering the earBuzz WWX Program – creating an avenue to get indie albums on the top 15 sites worldwide at $39 per year, one of the best programs in the industry while providing artists 100% of the proceeds/royalties. Don’s professional growth included five years at MacAddict Magazine, the final three as Publisher; marketing and advertising management for Knight-Ridder newspapers and the San Francisco Chronicle. Don’s experience in radio has been as a drive time announcer for KLKT Incline Village, NV and KKIS in the San Francisco Bay Area. Don is an accomplished musician and former member of Jak (Epic Records) and Black Tide sharing billing with acts such as Blue Oyster Cult, the Stray Cats, Peter Frampton, and, as a solo artist, Hot Tuna. He’s released two albums with a third due in 2009. He received his music training from the University of New Mexico, Musician’s Institute, and was guitar faculty at Azusa Pacific University. He is the father of five, ages 6-11, and is happily married to his college sweetheart. |
 Marty
Lafferty,
CEODCIA Marty Lafferty, Chief Executive Officer, Distributed Computing Industry Association (DCIA): As DCIA’s CEO, Marty Lafferty is responsible for industry outreach, strategic development and management of all association initiatives. He is an accomplished new media industry leader with a track record of successful multi-business collaboration and excellence in pioneering the distribution of content via new technologies. Throughout his career, Lafferty has served in senior leadership positions for some of the world’s most innovative technology and entertainment companies. Lafferty joined DCIA from Lafferty Media Partners LLC (LMP) where he served as Managing Partner. Prior to LMP, he was CEO of Zoom Culture, which he transformed from a year-old dotcom into a thriving digital television and new media firm within 24 months, working with partners including NBC and PAX TV. He also led Zoom’s software development team and partnered with Apple engineers to serve as the first Beta client for Scale 8’s advanced global storage network and edge content distribution system. Previously he served as CMO for StreamSearch.com, where he oversaw the conversion of streaming video search engines from a technological to an entertainment market focus, working with and for major studios such as Paramount and Artisan. During his tenure as Microsoft TV VP of Corporate & Service Marketing, Lafferty supported the strategic refocus of Microsoft’s WebTV acquisition from a purely B2C niche subscription offering to a B2B application suite for multichannel service distributors and their set-top suppliers, in addition to introducing plans for the Xbox game console. Lafferty has received recognition from, and held leadership positions in, numerous industry organizations throughout his career. He was awarded the Council for Entrepreneurial Development Award as a top-fifty new company. He served as Membership Chairman of the Interactive Services Association, and was named Chairman of the International Digital Satellite Television Symposium. Lafferty also co-founded the Satellite Broadcasting Communications Association and served as its first Vice Chairman. Lafferty holds a Master’s degree from Yale University and Bachelors with honors from Williams College. He has received the NCTA’s President’s Award and a CTAM TAMI Award for industry service. |
 Mark Lam,
Chairman & CEOLive365.com N. Mark Lam serves as Chairman, Executive Committee and CEO of Live365. With thousands of broadcasters and millions of listeners worldwide, Live365 offers greater breadth and depth of music than any other site on the internet and is the world’s largest internet radio network. Our mission is to become the voices of the wireless web. Prior to joining Live365, Lam was instrumental in securing funding, developing a new business model, and advising profitable growth as the former lead advisor to Live365. Previously, Lam specialized in forming global alliances and solving business and legal problems for international high-tech companies for over a dozen years. His clients included Philips Electronics and Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd./Foxconn (ranked #2 in 2004 Business Week InfoTech 100 with over $20 Billion in 2005 revenue and is the world’s largest high-tech contract manufacturer as well as one of the largest investors into China), in which he successfully prosecuted and defended intellectual property claims as well as advising, negotiating, and consummating deals which contributed significantly to the success and rapid growth of Hon Hai/Foxconn. Earlier in his career, Lam worked at GM/Hughes, Geneva Company, the leading middle market M&A firm in the 80’s, and Dynafund, an international venture capital firm. In 2000 and 2004, he served as a Presidential Elector and appeared on CNN, Good Morning Asia and the BBC. In 2001, he joined a delegation invited by leading Chinese universities and major T.V. stations in five cities including Beijing and Shanghai to lecture on China’s joining the WTO and its verdana on China’s media industry. He was also a speaker at the inaugural China and the Internet Conference in 2003. Lam received a B.A. from Hamilton College, a J.D. from University of California Hastings College of the Law, and an M.B.A. from UCLA Anderson School. |
 Matt Laszuk.
CEO and Co-FounderIRIS Distribution Prior to founding IRIS in 2003, Matt worked in the music industry as a label manager and sound engineer. He has an extensive background in techno and experimental electronic music as a DJ and event promoter. Matt also has experience in software engineering and project management for companies such as Charles Schwab, Netscape Communications, and Hewlett Packard. Matt has participated as a panelist and speaker for a number of music and trade organizations, including Mutek, M3, Music Fest Northwest, National College Media Convention, NARM, Bandwidth and CMJ. Matt holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from Brown University. |
 David Leibowitz,
EVP, Bus. & Legal Affairs/Managing PartnerGotuit Media / CH Potomac David E. Leibowitz is Managing Partner of CH POTOMAC, a strategic services firm, where he works with companies that are developing enhanced, innovative ways for consumers to enjoy and experience content, and to assure that proper business models are in place to monetize these offerings. Among other activities, Mr. Leibowitz serves as Executive Vice President of Gotuit Media, a partner in The A&R Channel – a Comcast cable music oriented VOD service, and as a senior advisor to Motorola, Musicane, National Datacast, and Sir Groovy. In recent years, Mr. Leibowitz served as Chairman of Ezmo, an independent online social music subsidiary of FAST Search and Transfer (now part of Microsoft) and as an advisor to BMI, Gibson Guitar, Haystack Media, Peppercoin and others in the content and technology industries. Mr. Leibowitz also is a co-founder of VERANCE, the preeminent audio watermark technology provider employed by the content industries to protect, manage, and monitor audio and audiovisual content, and served as it Chairman. Earlier in his career; Mr. Leibowitz served as: Executive Vice President and General Counsel of the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), responsible for business, policy and legal issues facing the industry with particular emphasis on how to position the industry to best utilize new physical formats and electronic delivery platforms; a partner in the Washington, D.C., law firm Wiley & Rein, representing a number of Fortune 100 media and entertainment companies, television personalities, and a major league professional baseball team; as Policy Planning Advisor to the Register of Copyrights; and as an adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Miami Law School, and at the Communications Law Institute of the Columbus School of Law (Catholic University). |
 Zahavah Levine,
VP, Business Development
& General CounselYouTube Zahavah Levine is Chief Counsel for YouTube. She oversees partnership agreements with record labels, music publishers, networks, movie studios, and other organizations interested in forging content relationships with the largest video entertainment service on the Internet. She also directs policies focused on protecting the rights of copyright holders. Prior to YouTube, she was Associate General Counsel & Director of Music Licensing for RealNetworks, Inc., and was responsible for the music licensing for all of RealNetworks’ products and services including Rhapsody, RadioPass and SuperPass. Zahavah received her JD from Boalt Hall School of Law at U.C. Berkeley and her BA in History from Brown University. |
 Rob Lewis,
CEO & Co-FounderOmnifone Rob Lewis is CEO and co-founder of Omnifone. He is responsible for the rollout of the company’s multi-award winning MusicStation™ powered unlimited music services and for partnering with the likes of Vodafone, Telenor, Hutchison Telecom and Vodacom, LG and Sony Ericsson for PlayNow™ plus. At CES 2009 Omnifone announced a partnership with Gracenote to bring interoperable unlimited music services to multiple device platforms including mobile, PC, in-car and in-home devices. Lewis is PwC UK Technology, Innovation & Growth Awards 2008 Entrepreneur of the Year. He previously founded Business & Technology Magazine (sold to Dennis Publishing) and along with Omnifone co-founders Phil Sant and Mark Knight, founded the successful internet software developer Cromwell Media (sold to InterX for £850m in 2000). He was also the founder and CEO of Silicon.com (later sold to CNET Networks) and its sister companies, Paris-based Silicon.fr and Munich-based Silicon.de. Omnifone is based in Island Studios, London with regional headquarters in Asia Pacific. For more information please visit www.omnifone.com. |
 Alexander Ljung,
Founder & CEOSoundCloud Alexander is founder & CEO of SoundCloud, the Berlin based internet start-up that moves music. Prior to SoundCloud he has worked with sound design for feature films, co-authored a book on online sociology, co-founded a consultancy network and kept the dream of one day writing the perfect song alive. He has a M.Sc. degree from The Royal Institute of Technology and plenty of unfinished courses from other universities. He was born in the UK, grew up in Sweden and the Middle East and can now be found in Berlin, Mitte. |
 Cecily Mak,
Senior Counsel & Dir. of Music LicensingRealNetworks Cecily Mak is an Intellectual Property and Entertainment Law attorney. She currently holds the position of Senior Counsel, Legal and Business Affairs, at RealNetworks where she supports numerous teams in connection with the digital music service, Rhapsody. Cecily has extensive experience structuring, negotiating and drafting various in and out bound content license, technology, development, co-brand, website operation promotional and live recording agreements with record labels, music publishers, search companies, and technology licensors. Cecily is a frequent public speaker and regular contributor to a range of publications on the subjects of digital media, music and copyright law including a recently published by the IAEL and presented at MIDEM entitled “Privatizing Copyright Reform in the Web 2.0 Era; The Current Rate of Product and Technology Innovation in the Digital Media Industry Cannot be Supported by Current Legal Paradigms; One Solution: Take Copyright Reform into our Own Hands". She teaches Digital Media Law at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law and is currently co-authoring a book entitled Music Law in the Digital Age scheduled for publication by the Berklee Press in early 2009. |
 Dinesh Mathew,
Senior Director, Consumer InsightMTV Networks Dinesh Mathew has spent almost a decade in consumer insight research across many demographics for a variety of brands. He is Senior Director of Consumer Insights Research at MTV, with specific responsibility for research and strategic insights for the music-focused MTV2 and mtvU brands. In this position, he develops primary research aimed at understanding music behaviors and tendencies for young males, college-age students, and teenagers, and plays an integral role in the assessment and development of on-air and online music initiatives and potential new music properties for MTV. Recently Dinesh led MX2, an extensive year-long study of the “music experience” among young people and adults. This study focused on the music behaviors of 14 to 34 year olds, and included a segmentation of today’s young music consumer, as well as insights into how today’s music landscape has affected media companies and brands. Dinesh began his career at Procter & Gamble, holding a series of positions in project management and consumer research for Bounty, Charmin, and other brands. His work focused on adults and young families, covering new product initiatives as well as advertising campaign development. Dinesh has been involved in a variety of music-related enterprises in addition to his work at MTV. Prior to joining MTV, he spent time at a small independent record label developing financial and accounting systems. Dinesh also holds a M.A. in Music Business from New York University. |
 Robb
McDaniels, Founder, President & CEOINgrooves
Robb McDaniels is the
Founder, President and CEO of INgrooves, a
leading digital media distribution and
publishing company that provides a wide
array of distribution and marketing
services. The company was founded in 2002
and is based in San Francisco.
In March of 2008, Universal Music Group, the world’s leading music company, made a significant strategic investment in INgrooves and has been utilizing INgrooves’ proprietary software platform for the distribution of its North American’ repertoire to online and mobile retailers around the world. Prior to founding INgrooves, Robb worked in finance and focused on maximizing the value of intellectual property for a number of Fortune 500 companies. Robb graduated from Trinity College in Hartford, CT and also spent time studying at the London School of Economics. Robb’s intimate knowledge of digital distribution technologies, mobile entertainment, marketing and promotion strategies in the digital world and TV and film licensing of independent music have resulted in several speaking engagements including: Digital Media Summit, London Calling, Music Matters (Hong Kong), Winter Music Conference, Dow Jones’ Consumer Technology Ventures Conference and the Sumer Music Conference. He has also been quoted in numerous news reports including: Billboard Magazine, San Francisco Business Times, Tech TV, CNN Headline News, San Jose Mercury News, The Online Reporter and was featured in Entrepreneur Magazine in December 2007. Additionally, Robb was honored by the National Association of Recording Industry Professionals’ (NARIP) as the #2 Best Digital Distribution Executive of 2007, second only to Apple’s Steve Jobs. |
 Ellen
McGirt, Sr. WriterFast Company When she's not chasing presidential candidates or leaping social networks in a single bound, Ellen McGirt occasionally shows up at her job as Senior Writer at Fast Company magazine, where she never stops looking for the writer's holy grail: The business ideas - and people - who are changing the world. She’s been responsible for four of the magazine’s last ten cover stories, taking her readers inside Facebook, behind the scenes of the Discovery Channel’s hit show “Dirty Jobs”, and most recently, exploring the “brand called Obama.” Fast Company’s July issue, “Al Gore’s $100 Million Makeover” - which included an analysis of Current Television - was the top seller in 2007. McGirt joined Fast Company in February 2007 from Fortune, where she was a senior writer. Before that, she was a columnist and editor-at-large for Money, where she covered a wide variety of health care, consumer, personal finance and investing topics. McGirt has served as a guest business anchor for CNN's American Morning, and has appeared frequently on Good Morning America, CBS Early Today, NBC Nightly News, CNBC, CNN, and American Public Media. Prior to joining Time, Inc., McGirt was a web 1.0 veteran, serving as a founding online columnist for Oxygen Media and an on-air correspondent for Yahoo! FinanceVision. She was also the creator of CassandrasRevenge.com, an award-wining investor education Web site for women. |
Jim Merlis, President
Jim Merlis founded Big Hassle
a pr company specializing in music in
January 1999. In 2004 he left Big Hassle to
head the publicity department at Geffen
Records, but returned to the company he had
started in 2008 to open up a west coast
office. In his twenty years of doing music
pr he's run press campaigns some of the
biggest artists of the last two decades
including Nirvana, Mary J. Blige, Dave
Matthews Band, Hole, The Strokes and Weezer.
|
 Alex
Meshkin, CEOBopaboo Alex Meshkin, CEO of bopaboo; and an innovator of digital music secondary markets, is a serial entrepreneurial that is well documented in leading publications including CNBC, Fortune, Fox News, and many others. Alex Meshkin is not a newcomer to the technology world and at the age of 19 started his first internet company. However, he is most widely known for his success as the Founder and CEO of Bang! Racing, a company formed through a strategic partnership with Toyota Racing Development. In 2004, Bang! Racing became the most successful first year team in NASCAR history, going on to break numerous motorsports records; including Alex becoming the youngest NASCAR team owner in NASCAR history at the age of 23; and Bang! Racing becoming the first NASCAR team to bring Toyota their FIRST two victories. |
 Ziv Navoth, SVP, Marketing & Business Development
Bebo / AOL's People Networks As SVP Marketing & Business Development, Ziv is tasked with turning Bebo into the hottest youth lifestyle brand. Since joining Bebo in February 2007, the company grew its user base from 22M to 49M (with no marketing budget) and pioneered numerous innovations including a new business model for media companies to distribute and monetize their content and a new form of online entertainment, combining original productions with brand sponsorship. Prior to joining Bebo Ziv founded and ran Verve, a boutique management consultancy offering strategic advisory services to leading companies in the US, UK and beyond. Verve's client list included Google, Microsoft, BBC, Infospace, RealNetworks, Network Appliance and many others. Before founding Verve, Ziv was Managing Director at Startup Station Plc; a private equity firm he founded and then sold to a UK public company. Ziv was also a co-founder of Tagma, a Logistics consultancy and Automatic For The People, a CD-vending business. Before founding Startup Station, Ziv served as Executive Director at the Institute for Technology and Enterprise, New York's premier Management and Technology research centre. His work at the Institute focused on the disruptive effects new companies have on established businesses. Ziv holds Bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Philosophy from Tel-Aviv University and an MBA in Innovation, Strategy, Information and Technology from the Theseus Institute in France. Ziv is also the author of Nanotales (www.nanotales.net), a collection of short short stories. |
David Oxenford,
Partner |
 Massimiliano Pellegrini,
CEODada Entertainment Since joining Dada in 2000 as a Senior Executive, Max Pellegrini has played a key role in the internationalization of the company’s D2C product, dada.net, in the U.S., Spanish and Latin American markets. At the creation of Dada Entertainment, a joint venture between Dada and Sony BMG Music Entertainment, Max was appointed CEO in October 2007. Prior to joining Dada, Max spent seven years in strategic consulting, supporting clients in various industries. |
 Matthew Perpetua,
FounderFluxblog.org Matthew Perpetua has been writing Fluxblog, one of very first mp3 blogs, nearly every weekday since February of 2002. In addition to running the site, he is also a freelance writer who has written for publications including the Associated Press, New York Magazine, Spin Magazine, Pitchfork Media, and MTV. He also served as the music producer for Public Radio International's Fair Game with Faith Salie. |
 Michael Petricone,
SVP of Gov't AffairsConsumer Electronics Association Michael Petricone is the senior vice president of government affairs for the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). In his position, Michael has been responsible for representing the CE industry’s position before Congress and the FCC on critical issues such as digital television broadband, privacy and home recording rights. Mr. Petricone is a frequent speaker on policy issues impacting the consumer electronics industry, and in 2003 Michael was featured by Dealerscope Magazine as one of the technology industry’s “Top 40 Under 40”. Mr. Petricone received his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center and his undergraduate degree from Tufts University. CEA represents more than 1000 U.S. manufacturers of audio, video, accessories, mobile electronics, communication, information and multimedia products that are sold through consumer channels. CEA also sponsors and manages the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the world’s largest annual trade event showcasing consumer electronics products. |
 Chris
Phenner,
EVP, Business DevelopmentThumbplay Chris Phenner is EVP Business Development at Thumbplay, with over 12 years experience around software, digital media and online subscription services. Chris is responsible for new customer acquisition via Integrated Partnerships, including exclusive relationships Thumbplay has with AOL, Clear Channel, Comcast, MSN & iLike. Chris is also responsible for all content acquisition and programming on Thumbplay’s web and WAP sites, as well as the developer platform for partners via OPEN (http://open.thumbplay.com). Prior to Thumbplay, Chris was Director of Business Development at Audible, Inc., Business Development Manager at CNET Networks' Download.com and Director of Business Development at Napster (1.0). Chris was also business development manager at RollingStone.com and in marketing with Spyglass, Mosaic's original licensor. Chris is the original author of the "business development" article on Wikipedia, and is a member of the International Academy of the Digital Arts & Sciences (who presents the Webby Awards). Chris has a B.A. in Political Science from Miami University, and an MBA from a dual-degree program with U.C. Berkeley and Columbia University. |
 Jon Potter,
Executive DirectorDigital Media Association Representing America’s leading online media companies as Executive Director of DiMA, Jonathan Potter is actively involved in the development of U.S. and global public policy associated with digital entertainment convergence. He frequently testifies before Congress and speaks at conferences worldwide, and was named one of Washington’s top technology lobbyists by Tech Counsel Magazine. In 2001 Mr. Potter was instrumental in the creation of EDiMA, the European Digital Media Association. He is a graduate of New York University School of Law and the University of Rochester. |
 Kelli Richards,
President & CEOThe All Access Group Kelli is a veteran in the traditional music industry as an A&R exec (EMI), and is an early pioneer & veteran in digital music and entertainment as well. She is also a sought after talent producer, having produced a wide range of concerts, award shows, and celebrity fundraiser events over the past two decades. She led music and entertainment initiatives at Apple for over a decade before launching her own company, The All Access Group, a digital music and media consultancy. Her company advises some of the most influential, cutting edge companies in technology and entertainment today. Kelli is highly artist-centric with a large network of artists, producers, and industry influencers in her extensive rolodex. She has a special passion for enabling established artists to connect more directly with their fans, and to monetize their brands more broadly across the full spectrum of the digital landscape. Kelli is the co-author of two books, including the acclaimed "The Art of Digital Music", and is renowned globally as an expert and speaker on digital media and music convergence. |
 Frank Rose,
Contributing EditorWired Magazine Frank Rose has been a contributing editor at Wired since 1999, writing about such topics as the Year Zero alternate reality game, Sony’s gamble on the PlayStation 3, and the rise of Philip K. Dick in Hollywood. In the past he has worked as a contributing writer at Fortune and Premiere and as a contributing editor at Travel + Leisure and Esquire. His writing has also appeared in New York, The New York Times Magazine, Rolling Stone, and Vanity Fair. His 1989 best-seller West of Eden: The End of Innocence at Apple Computer, about the power struggle that resulted in Steve Jobs being expelled from the company, is being republished next month in an updated edition. He is currently working on a book about the future of narrative in the Internet age and posting on the same subject at his Deep Media blog. He lives in the East Village of Manhattan, where he got his start covering the punk scene at CBGB for The Village Voice. |
 Jay Rosenthal,
Senior Vice-President & General CounselNational Music Publishers’ Associations Jay Rosenthal is Senior Vice-President and General Counsel with the National Music Publishers’ Associations’ (NMPA). Mr. Rosenthal was formerly General Counsel for the Recording Artists' Coalition (RAC). Mr. Rosenthal has also represented during his career many recording artists, managers, record labels, songwriters, publishers, and others in the music industry. Mr. Rosenthal is a Professorial Lecturer in Entertainment Law at the George Washington University Law School and an Adjunct Professor of Entertainment Law at the Washington College of Law at The American University. He is a former SoundExchange Board Member, a Copyright Examiner with the U.S. Copyright Office, a Vice-president of the Washington Area Music Association, and an Advisory Board Member of the Songwriter Association of Washington. Mr. Rosenthal has authored numerous articles on entertainment law and intellectual property. He is a Contributing Editor with Entertainment, Law & Finance, and is a periodic contributor to Billboard and other industry newsletters and journals. . He has lectured extensively across the country on entertainment industry topics. Mr. Rosenthal received an Undergraduate Degree in History and a Masters Degree in International Affairs from The American University, a Juris Doctor Degree in Law from The Antioch School of Law (Editor, Antioch Law Journal), and a Master of Law Degree in International and Comparative Law from Georgetown University Law Center. |
 Maurice Russell, VP, Licensing, Collections & Business Affairs Maurice A. Russell is the Vice President of Licensing, Collections and Business Affairs for the Harry Fox Agency, Inc. (HFA). In this role, Russell oversees the Licensing and Collections Departments, which together work with licensees such as record labels and digital music services to provide fast and accurate licensing and the collection of royalties on behalf of HFA’s nearly 36,000 affiliate publishers. At the close of 2007, HFA administered nearly 14 million license and almost 1.9 million songs. As part of the Business Affairs team, he works closely with Business Development to implement new licensing opportunities, such as those for ringtones, lyrics, and tablature. He reports directly to Michael Simon, Senior Vice President of Business Affairs, General Counsel and Chief Strategic Officer. Russell has directed the development and launch systems to handle the intake, processing and execution of the over 200,000 physical product license requests received and over 1.5 million digital licenses issued by HFA per year, including eMechanical, HFA’s main online licensing system; eSignature, the electronic approval system; and the enhanced Songfile® application, HFA’s online mechanical licensing tool for smaller quantities of licenses. Russell has also supervised bulk licensing enhancements, licensing reports and other licensing related technical projects. Russell is a sought-after expert on licensing issues. He is the co-chair of the Musical Works Licensing Working Group of Digital Data Exchange (DDEX), which defines and implements solutions for the standardization and exchange of digital data between trading partners. He has also spoken at numerous industry events, including SXSW, Digital Music Forum East and West and the ASCAP Expo.
Russell holds a M.B.A. degree from New York University’s Stern School of Business Administration and a B.A. from Columbia College, Columbia University. In his spare time, Russell enjoys composing music. |
 Matt Schwartz,
Manager Music Programming
& Business DevelopmentVerizon Communications Matt Schwartz is Manager of Music Content Operations and Business Development for Verizon Wireless. In this role he oversees music programming and content acquisition for the suite of music products Verizon Wireless offers including V CAST Music over-the-air full song downloads, ringtones, ringback tones and music videos. He is responsible for the deals with Verizon Wireless’ music content providers as well developing its music marketing strategy and product development. Mr. Schwartz is a music industry veteran with over 12 years of music content experience. Prior to joining Verizon Wireless he served as Senior Director of A&R Administration for SonyBMG’s Zomba Label Group, where he was responsible for the management of several of the world’s most successful recording projects including Chris Brown, T-Pain, Usher, Outkast, Ciara, Pink & Kelis. Before this, Mr. Schwartz oversaw the A&R Administration department for Arista Records and managed recording projects for artist greats such as Avril Lavigne, Jermaine Dupri, TLC, & Whitney Houston. At Arista he was also responsible for the management of the producer deals with producer veterans Jermaine Dupri, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis & The Neptunes. Prior to Arista, he served as Director of A&R Operations & International at TVT Records when he oversaw budgets and operations for A&R, Touring & Music Videos while managing TVT’s international marketing. Mr. Schwartz has also served as founder and webmaster of Bouldermusic.com, a web community portal, where he created a community team of web developers, internet providers, concert photographers, music editors/promoters, ticket outlets & records stores to successfully drive business operations for the local and national music scenes. Prior to this he ran Island Record’s Black Music’s A&R Operations and was responsible for the project management for platinum & gold artists Dru Hill, Isley Brothers, Kelly Price, Karen Clark-Sheard, Luther Campbell, Steve Harvey, Bishop TD Jakes and Sisqo There he developed, structured and helped negotiate producer deals including some of the following top R&B/Hip-Hop producers; Jermaine Dupri, P-Diddy, R. Kelly, Teddy Riley & Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. Mr. Schwartz holds a Masters of Music from the University of Miami School of Music and a B.A. from George Washington University. |
 Syd Schwartz,
SVP, Digital
Strategy EMI North America Syd Schwartz is Senior Vice President of Digital Strategy for the EMI Music North America. Syd is responsible for managing the strategic, creative and technical direction of all EMI artist websites, digital platforms and online campaigns, as well as evaluating new platforms and technology for integration into EMI Music's sales, marketing and promotional efforts. Syd is also EMI's "digital evangelist", driving digital awareness and thought process into all departments at EMI. Prior to EMI, Syd was with Wind-Up Records, where he began in 1995 as Director of Sales & Marketing, but a persistent push to get the company online resulted in his assuming the newly created position of Director of Technology in 1996. He was promoted to Vice President of New Media in February 1998, and Sr. VP of New Media in 2000 where he was responsible for a series of groundbreaking online campaigns for multi-platinum artists Creed and Evanescence. Syd joined the EMI team in the Fall of 2002. Syd's entrée into the music industry began in high school manning the cash register at Sam Goody (where many-a-paycheck was blown entirely), then managing an independent record store while in college. Upon graduating, Syd landed a job in 1989 as Independent Label Buyer at CD One Stop (now Alliance Entertainment). He became Purchasing/Advertising Manager in 1992, developing the database and inventory control system that would become the All Music Guide. He was promoted to Director of Purchasing in 1994 where he oversaw all purchasing operations for Alliance which had grown to be the largest music one-stop in the U.S. Syd is a graduate of the State University of New York with a BA in Sociology. Online since 1992, he is an active participant in many online music communities, has written liner notes for the progressive rock group Yes, co-authored a reference book on the legendary jamband Phish, and fondly remembers Prodigy for DOS. Syd is actively involved in the Mockingbird Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to generating funding in support of music education for children. |
 George Searle,
CEOLimeWire George Searle is CEO of LimeWire. Prior to joining LimeWire, he started, acquired, led, built and/or sold a number of new media ventures. George formed Mediaguide as a joint venture with ASCAP, where he developed and implemented an automated tracking system to help ASCAP better monitor, collect, and disburse payments to rights-holders while simultaneously expanding the royalty base. George co-founded ConneXus, where he created a revolutionary service that let consumers identify and purchase music they hear on ordinary radio using only their mobile phone. The service received critical acclaim as an important new e-commerce model for traditional media, entertainment and wireless companies. George orchestrated the acquisition of Swiss-based YES International, which he combined with ConneXus to form YES Networks, whose services make radio and TV interactive and social. As a consultant, George has helped other businesses conceptualize, develop and launch breakthrough technologies, products and business plans for social media, online dating and on-demand software. Prior to his foray into new media, George worked at two DoD think tanks, where he advised the Offices of the Secretary of Defense, US Air Force, and other agencies in the development, acquisition, test and evaluation, launch and operation of various national security satellites. George earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University, an MS in Applied Mechanics from Cal Tech, and an MBA from the Harvard Business School. |
 Ned Sherman,
CEO & PublisherDigital Media Wire Ned Sherman is CEO and Publisher of Digital Media Wire, Inc., where he works at the center of the rapidly growing digital media industry. Under his leadership, Digital Media Wire has grown from a small newsletter publisher into a well-respected B-to-B brand that owns and produces five annual conferences - Digital Music Forum, Games & Mobile Forum, Digital Media Conference, Future of Television Forum, Digital Commerce Summit and The Billboard Digital Entertainment Conference & Awards (now DEMXPO) - and provides daily news, information and community to 30,000+ executives and professionals at entertainment, media and technology companies throughout the world. As digital media community-builder, Ned has established partnerships with the leading B-to-B media companies and educational institutions, including VNU Business Media, Billboard Magazine, The Hollywood Reporter, Reed Business Information, Multichannel News, Business 2.0, Business Week, CableFax/CableWorld, VIBE/SPIN, MidemNet, NYU’s Stern School of Business, USC’s Center for Telecom Management and UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, and hundreds of the leading digital media companies, including Microsoft, Real Networks, Sony Corporation of America, AOL Time Warner, Napster, Yahoo! and many more. Ned’s background is in law. Before joining Digital Media Wire, Ned spent 7+ years as a corporate and entertainment attorney practicing at several of the leading law firms in the world with an international client base across industries including technology, Internet, media and entertainment. As a founding member of the iLaw Group in the Entertainment Department at Loeb & Loeb LLP in Century City, he handled complex licensing transactions and financings for media and entertainment clients including Universal Studios and MGM and launched dozens of Internet and new media start-ups. He has counseled company founders from initiation of a business plan to seed, angel, venture capital and later-stage private financings and managed all legal aspects of Internet clients from corporate organization, stockholder relationships, board compositions and dynamics, stock option plans, capital raising and security regulatory matters, Internet law issues, trademark, copyright, content and technology licensing, advertising and privacy issues. He sits on the Board of Directors of Wild Way, a non-profit dedicated to cultivating environmental awareness and developing educational programs for inner-city and “at risk” kids and has traveled extensively from Europe to Asia to South America to Northern Africa. Ned is married and lives with his wife, son and daughter in Hollywood Hills, California. |
 Michael Spiegelman,
Head of MusicYahoo! Michael Spiegelman is the Senior Director of Music at Yahoo!, where he runs one of the most visited Music websites in the world and a leading source of music videos and Internet radio. While at Yahoo! Music, Michael has been responsible for leading the re-launch of the music.yahoo.com site, adding concert information, music blogs and video playlisting. He served as a leading member of the team that designed and launched the Yahoo! Music Unlimited subscription service. Prior to joining Yahoo! Music in 2003, Michael was a co-founder and Principal at Web Paradox, a web design and development company in San Diego, CA. While there, he was responsible for business development, strategy, client relations and project management. His clients included Verizon, AT&T, Nextel and the US Navy. Before iXL, Michael was a Senior Strategy Consultant at iXL, a leading Internet consulting and development company, where he provided strategic consulting services to Fortune 500 companies and startups. Michael has also worked at Arthur Andersen Business Consulting and PricewaterhouseCoopers Consulting, where he advised public and private sector clients on business process re-engineering, change management, organizational redesign and technology development. |
 Patrick
Sullivan, President & CEORightsFlow LLC Mr. Sullivan is a founding member and serves as President and CEO of RightsFlow. Separately, Mr. Sullivan holds a seat at the Board of Directors at World Hunger Year (WHY). He is one of the music industry’s foremost authorities on digital music and rights negotiations – a wide expertise including such areas as: mobile, media, advertising and brand special products. He is a leader in strategic thinking and has been at the forefront of music industry evolution throughout his 17 year career. Over the past several years, he served as a dual Vice-President of Licensing and Music Services for both The Orchard & eMusic. At eMusic, Mr. Sullivan was responsible for designing and directing one of the largest independent DPD licensing operations in the world. His guidance in this field was crucial to the development of eMusic’s retail strategy, vastly increasing the amount of product available for sale. Additionally, through bulk licensing practices, he was able to simultaneously reduce overhead costs and potential liability. While at The Orchard, Mr. Sullivan was responsible for the creation and management of Orchard Music Services, a division which included publishing administration, mobile negotiations, mechanical licensing and administration, ringtone licensing and administration, synchronization exploitations, and the creation of new licensing models. His efforts transformed the company into a unique entity in the digital space. Prior to The Orchard, he was a Strategic Licensing Consultant for Selverne, Mandelbaum, & Mintz, a New York based Entertainment Law Firm. His projects included full licensing services for RoweAmi: negotiating and securing all publishing licenses as well as designing and implementing a licensing department from a start up into a fully functional operational role. In addition, he has worked as a consultant for the law firm Paul Weiss, RealNetworks, and many media and entertainment companies. From 1999-2004 he served as the Director of Research and Development at the National Music Publisher's Association/Harry Fox Agency (HFA), where he managed industry negotiations, internal corporate policy matters, new media, and public relations for the member organization. While there, he worked on crucial industry issues such as the Supreme Court case of MGM v. Grokster, industry litigation against MP3.com, Napster, and the recent settlement of Bertelsmann with NMPA. Mr. Sullivan was a key player in negotiating the agreements that permitted the launch the majority of the online music and mobile services that make up the market today. |
 Ann
Sweeney, EVPWarner/Chappell Music Ann Sweeney is Executive Vice President for Warner/Chappell Music (WCM), the global music publishing arm of Warner Music Group Corp. (NYSE: WMG), and one of the world’s largest music publishers. Based in New York, Sweeney brings more than 18 years of experience in the music publishing industry, including legal and business affairs, digital strategies and identifying and acquiring major music catalogs. At Warner/Chappell Music, her primary responsibilities include overseeing worldwide digital revenue, working closely with other senior management executives in identifying and executing U.S.-based catalog acquisitions as well as legislative and other music publishing industry issues. In addition, Sweeney will also work with WMG's Digital Strategy and Business Development team and recorded music labels in expanding Warner/Chappell’s efforts and relationships in new media and digital music. Prior to joining WCM, Sweeney spent seven years as the Senior Vice President of Sony/ATV Music Publishing, where she oversaw the company’s worldwide legal and business affairs, coordinated litigation, copyright, and legislative strategy and established legal and business policies to implement evolving digital distribution methods. Sweeney also played an instrumental role in Sony/ATV’s acquisition of the Acuff-Rose, Leiber Stoller, and Famous Music catalogs, among others. From 1998 through 2000, Sweeney served as the Vice President of New Technology and Business Development for Sony Music’s Digital Media Group, working to develop Sony Music’s early digital strategies and legislative posture, and investing in and incubating start-up technology companies. Between 1992 and 1998, Sweeney served as Counsel, Senior Counsel, and then Vice President of Sony Music’s Legal Affairs department, where she drafted and negotiated major recording, publishing, and corporate deals. Before joining Sony, Sweeney served as Director of Business Affairs for three years at Chrysalis Music Group (later EMI Record Group N.A.), where she was responsible for both publishing and label work. She started her music career working in a law firm representing SBK Entertainment World Inc., drafting basic publishing deals and assisting in the sale of SBK to EMI Music Publishing. Sweeney received her B.A. in Political Science from the University of Vermont and a J.D. from New York University School of Law. |
 Mike Tunnicliffe,
PartnerTuna Music LLC / The Sheppard LLC Mike Tunnicliffe, a former Advertising Agency CEO with extensive global experience, is a leader in entertainment-based alternative marketing solutions and brand partnerships. He co-writes a regular column for Advertising Age and a blog ‘Bands & Brands’ that gives in-depth views on the latest developments in brand partnerships and new business models in the music, entertainment and brand communications businesses. Nominated by M&M Europe as “one of the top 100 most influential people in global advertising and marketing”. Leading international advertising magazine Campaign honored Mike by adding him to their “A List” of most influential people in today’s advertising and marketing business. Mike has worked across the globe with Fortune 500 companies advising then on brand communications and managing the advertising agency teams that service them across multiple markets. Through his New York based management company Tuna Music LLC he, advises agencies, brands, entertainment properties /businesses and musical artists on marketing, business strategies, partnerships and revenue creation opportunities. He works directly with some leading music ‘brands’, including a Grammy winning multi platinum selling Urban star, a high profile rock act, a former reality show contestant who’s now launching a career as a Country-Rock singer. He is also an advisor to a number of charitable causes including the charity Peace One Day , which raises awareness and funds through Mike’s two great passions , brand partnerships and entertainment. Mike is also a partner/principal in leading Los Angeles based independent Branded Entertainment & Alternative Marketing Company: The Sheppard, and start up Entertainment / Talent Agency: Filament, which both work with leading consumer brands and high profile entertainers / entertainment properties to create and execute alternative marketing solutions , create new revenue streams and business opportunities. |
 Amaechi
Uzoigwe, Co-FounderDefinitive Jux Amaechi Uzoigwe is a New York-based music executive and entrepreneur with over 15 years experience in the entertainment industry, both in the independent and major label music spheres, and across multiple genres. He has launched a highly successful record label, a forward-thinking artist and label management boutique and a groundbreaking music awards platform. As co-founder and owner of the legendary independent hip hop label Definitive Jux (http://www.definitivejux.net) As co-proprietor of the PLUG Awards, which has emerged as the most recognized and credible platform for celebrating the achievements of the independent music industry, Amaechi has created a successful annual event extensively lauded by the music community and the mediasphere. The PLUG 2008 Awards show featured a headlining performance by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds and the first online broadcast of the PLUG Awards in conjunction with title sponsor Dell Computers. While at World’s Fair, Amaechi and his partners provided artist and label management services to clients such as The Flaming Lips, Rough Trade, The Dandy Warhols, Secret Machines, Devendra Banhart, El-P, Sharon Jones & the DapKings and more. As a consultant, Amaechi assisted in the creation and development of the online music site paperthinwalls.com, which was acquired by Getty Images in 2007. He has also served as a consultant to The Orchard, the world's largest independent digital distributor, and most recently, to Fairtilizer.com, a Geneva-based music and technology platform. In 2007, he came full circle with his other love, film, by closing a life story rights deal with rising Hollywood star Shia LaBouef (Transformers, Indiana Jones) to produce and play the lead role in the large screen bio-pic of Def Jux artist, Cage. In 2006, Amaechi was named Chairman of the Board for the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM), the trade organization representing the collective interests of independent music industry in the U.S. marketplace, a $3 billion industry covering over 30% of the music market. In 1994, he co-founded the artist management company & recording studio, Ozone Entertainment, which looked after rock/pop artists China Forbes (Columbia; now lead vocalist for Pink Martini), Bree Sharp (Trauma/Interscope), Don Dilego (Universal), Saul Williams (American/Columbia), Sunday Suit (Sire), and Mike Ladd (Scratchie/Mercury), as well as underground icons Company Flow (Rawkus), Anti Pop Consortium (Warp), and Hawkman (Correct). Amaechi also serves on Executive Advisory Council for eMusic; and sits on the Board of Advisors for Fairtilizer.com, a new Geneva-based technology platform; Synthesis Networks; and Ourstage.com. |
 Eliot Van Buskirk,
Staff WriterWired.com Epicenter Technology journalist Eliot Van Buskirk has covered digital music and other areas of technology for about twelve years, mainly for Wired.com and CNET. The author of two project-oriented books (including Burning Down the House: Ripping, Recording, Remixing and More and an iPod book), he's a semi-regular on NPR, digital music panels, and other outlets. Van Buskirk spends much of his time covering disruptive audio and video technologies for Wired's Epicenter blog at wired.com/business, and is contemplating a "big idea" book he can't tell you about yet. He plays the bass and rides a bicycle. |
 Tony
van Veen, CEO & PresidentAudio and Video Labs, Inc. (Disc Makers / CD Baby) Tony van Veen is CEO and president of Audio and Video Labs, Inc, the parent company of Disc Makers and CD Baby. Having performed and toured with several bands and run a small independent label, he joined Disc Makers in 1987. As president of Disc Makers he has been at the forefront of empowering independent artists to release, distribute, and promote their own music. In the process, he oversaw the company’s growth from a small regional vinyl pressing plant with less than 40 employees, to the undisputed leader in CD and DVD manufacturing for independent artists in the US, with over 400 employees, producing 20,000 new independent titles a year. In August of 2008 Audio and Video Labs acquired CD Baby, the largest independent music store in the world with 250,000 independent album titles and over 2.2 million songs in its catalog, which it sells on its own cdbaby.com store and distributes to dozens of the largest download stores in the world, including iTunes, Amazon MP3, Rhapsody, and eMusic. Tony continues to be actively engaged with independent artists while splitting his duties between Disc Makers and CD Baby. |
 Anthony Volodkin,
FounderThe Hype Machine Anthony Volodkin created The Hype Machine nearly four years ago in his dorm room and has been unable to stop thinking about how people discover music ever since. In that time, a small, passionate team has been assembled around the product and the Hype Machine now reaches over 1.5 million people each month. Prior to that he spent six years doing IT consulting while constantly carving out evenings to see live music. Anthony was born in Moscow, Russia and has been living in Brooklyn, New York since he was 12. |
 Pete Watson,
Head of Business DevelopmentResearch in Motion (RIM)/BlackBerry After spending many years as a touring musician and working in the music business from all facets as a producer, designer, and even retail music store manger; Pete made a career move and joined Universal Music Canada fulltime in the mid 1990s. Initially working in marketing and promotion Pete’s keen interest and knowledge of new technology and the nascent “world wide web” secured him a position with Universal that would allow him to help build the company’s online presence and New Media team. Working with artists and within the industry Pete gained considerable knowledge and insight into how music and technology would be critical to the music business of tomorrow. After working on numerous digital and mobile music initiatives for Universal Music the transition to Research In Motion Limited in early 2007 as Senior Business Development Manager for consumer applications was a natural evolution for Pete’s continued interest in technology and content. With RIM expanding its BlackBerry line of industry leading smartphones to appeal to consumers as well as business and enterprise users, Pete was brought into the BlackBerry ISV Alliances Group as team lead for consumer applications. Having successfully established strong partnerships and launched applications with content and consumer leaders such as: ESPN, MLB, Napster, XM Radio, Slacker, The New York Times, CNN, NBC Universal, MTV, BBC, TiVo, SlingBox and many more; Pete has transitioned his humble musician beginnings into an active role that is helping to shape the way consumers will interact with their mobile devices from one of the leading brands in the world. |
 Jeremy
Welt, SVP, New MediaWarner Brothers Records Jeremy Welt, SVP, New Media for Warner Bros Records, has more than a decade of experience in new media, music and entertainment. In his role at Warner Bros, Jeremy uses new media to monetize, market, and develop careers for Warner Bros roster of artists, including, Metallica, Eric Clapton, Michael Buble, Linkin Park, Mike Jones, and many more. Prior to Warner Bros, Jeremy was head of New Media for Maverick Records, and launched dozens of groundbreaking new media campaigns, including the first sale of digital music for the Warner Music Group with Alanis Morissette, and early wireless innovation with the first WMG voice ringer and premium SMS ringtones for several Maverick artists. Early in his career, Jeremy worked at Rick Rubin's American Recordings, one of the first labels to use new media, and streaming audio technology. Before committing to new media, Jeremy worked behind the scenes in the studio as an asst. engineer at the Village Recorder, working with artists ranging from Dr Dre, to Trent Reznor. |
 Tim Westergren,
Chief Strategy Officer & FounderPandora Tim Westergren founded Pandora in January, 2000 and now serves as its Chief Strategy Officer. Tim is an award-winning composer, an accomplished musician and record producer with 10 years of experience in the music industry. He has worn many hats, from recording and touring with independent bands, to scoring feature films and running a commercial recording studio. Trained as a jazz pianist, he has played the bassoon, drums and clarinet and his musical background spans such genres as rock, blues, jazz and classical music. Tim founded Pandora to help talented emerging artists find their audience as well as to help avid music fans discover and enjoy new artists. Tim received his B.A. from Stanford University, where he studied computer acoustics and recording technology. He once had the privilege of studying under the legendary Stan Getz, whose words, "Remember, it's not the mode...it's the mood," still ring true. |