IndustryHours’ first anniversary was full of great conversations, inspiring interviews, and care for Los Angeles electronic music.
After a full year of successful events, Los Angeles’ IndustryHours just marked its first anniversary. Over the past twelve months, the organization has hosted a dozen events featuring more than 70 speakers, all with the goal of lowering barriers to entry and growing the electronic music scene in Los Angeles. Whether it was a past DIM MAK takeover or panels with a wide range of industry voices, IndustryHours has worked hard to help the community grow, learn, and connect.
This month’s anniversary event continued that tradition, shining a light on Pride Month and celebrating voices from underrepresented groups. The panel was anything but typical. Instead of a lineup of DJs, the guests not only included Moore Kismet and Wenzday, but also marketer perspectives from Naseer Sleets, singer songwriter Kaleena Zanders, artist relations guru Techno Tupac, and nightlife legend Billy Francesca.
Each speaker shared their own story. Wenzday comforted those affected by ICON Collective’s sudden closure, and who are still grappling with its shutdown. Kaleena’s humor kept things upbeat as she talked about her journey working both as a songwriter and a DJ. The variety on stage showed that dance music is about much more than just touring or making music, but everything that comes together in this industry. It all concluded with a special guest set from Moore Kismet.
The event also went beyond music and conversation. There were drinks and food for everyone. Sponsors like End Overdose were on hand, providing Narcan and fentanyl test kits to highlight harm reduction. NEFT Vodka also provided drinks and giveaways throughout the evening.
What really stood out was how the host, Julian Lucas, opened the evening. He took a heartfelt moment to recognize everything the LA dance community has faced recently, from the loss of a beloved member to the shock of ICON shutting down. Lucas also reminded everyone about the ongoing importance of supporting minorities and LGBTQ+ voices in dance music. He came up with great questions and made sure that each panelist was given the same respect. It was very well done.
The hosts mentioned IndustryHours expanding beyond Los Angeles. If the first year is any indication, this is the kind of event every city’s music scene could use. While the July announcement has yet to be announced, I can only imagine that the next event will cover topics that matter most to the community.
Stay tuned here and on our social media channels as EDM Identity will continue to provide editorial coverage for IndustryHours through at least all of 2025!
