Applications have opened for artists and speakers at the 2027 Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC), which will be held on 21 and 22 May 2027 at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The global call runs from 5 October to 31 December 2026. The seventh edition will convene artists, music professionals, entrepreneurs, cultural leaders and other industry stakeholders for discussions, workshops, networking sessions, showcases and live performances.
Application and selection#
ARMC is accepting submissions from artists, live acts, DJs and other music-makers who want to be considered for the 2027 live programme and showcases. The conference is looking for acts from across Africa and its diaspora, including emerging and established independent artists with distinctive creative identities.
Selected artists will perform as part of the ARMC 2027 programme in front of audiences, industry professionals and potential collaborators.
The conference is also seeking artists, executives, entrepreneurs, innovators and cultural leaders to contribute to its programme. Applicants can propose discussions and presentations on issues affecting the development and sustainability of the African music industry.
Organisers said they are particularly interested in practical knowledge and perspectives that can inform conversations about the future of the music industry.
Programme focus#
The 2027 edition will focus on connecting African talent and music businesses with international industry networks. ARMC said its programme will continue to prioritise female leadership, independent artists and other communities that remain underrepresented in the music business.
Industry comment#
Berlin-based music executive Meike Nolte, who has previously attended the conference, said: “I’ve been to many conferences and this is quite special. Everyone is super enthusiastic, you get to meet people who are go-getters and it’s great to see the level at which people operate here. People have taken a lot of thought into their careers and are taking everything into their own hands.”
