Syntax Creative will curate the music business workshop track at the 15th annual Flavor Fest conference, scheduled for Oct. 8-11 in Tampa, Florida.
The sessions are designed for developing and established artists, along with managers, promoters and administrators working in independent music.
Syntax has confirmed Yahoo Music senior editor Billy Johnson Jr. and Oak Tree Productions owner Tre’ Corley as panelists. Syntax Creative CEO Timothy J. Trudeau will also participate, with additional speakers expected to be announced before the conference.
Flavor Fest founder Tommy Kyllonen said the partnership will give attendees access to people with practical experience in music journalism, production, distribution and artist development.
“They have tons of valuable knowledge and priceless expertise to share with the up-and-coming and established artists attending our conference,” Kyllonen said.
Trudeau said the speakers were selected for the usefulness of their experience rather than their ability to draw the largest audience.
“Most panelists are chosen solely on their ability to draw a crowd,” Trudeau said. “While this secures registrations, it doesn’t always offer practical takeaway advice. I didn’t just pick people who would draw. I picked people who will genuinely help.”
Johnson has covered hip-hop, R&B and pop music for more than 20 years. His work has included interviews with artists and executives at different stages of their careers, giving him a broad view of the decisions that help promising music connect with an audience.
He said he plans to share lessons drawn from more than 1,000 interviews conducted during his career.
“I am excited to share my observations with Flavor Fest attendees with the intention of affirming, encouraging and helping guide their efforts,” Johnson said. “The most enjoyable part of my career has been identifying a talented new artist or a great new song in its infancy and watching it blossom.”
Corley is a Grammy and Dove Award-winning producer and engineer whose credits include work with Reba McEntire, Lecrae, tobyMac, Casting Crowns, Israel Houghton, Chris Tomlin and other artists.
He said talent alone cannot protect an artist from costly business mistakes.
“You may have amazing talent, but you can destroy your career in a matter of minutes simply by making misinformed decisions,” Corley said. “If the knowledge and experience that I have can help grow or catapult an artist, then I am extremely happy.”
Flavor Fest was founded in 1999 to train and connect leaders working in urban culture. The conference combines performances, workshops and leadership development, with previous participants including Lecrae, Tedashii, The Ambassador, MC Jin, Rick Warren, Eric Mason and Derwin L. Gray.
Registration is available through the Flavor Fest website. Discounted registration will remain available through Oct. 5 before walk-up pricing begins.