In mid-March, AEMMP Records, the Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management student-run record label affiliated with Columbia College Chicago, made their way to the famed SXSW Music Conference in Austin, Texas. Upon arrival, the AEMMP record label set right to work attending panels, hosting shows for their artists, and networking with music and media industry professionals.

AEMMP also hosted a 6-hour day party with a distinguished roster of artists that featured Dusted, Tenille, The Ivorys, The Future Laureates, Minor Characters, Gypsyblood, Jip-Jop, and The GTW. AEMMP Faculty Justin Sinkovich organized a panel on higher education in the music industry, addressing the “challenge of helping steer the future of the music industry through research and critical thought while providing an education where students can get jobs in such a competitive and changing field.”

SXSW was teeming with noteworthy industry professionals and famed musicians. Students had run-ins with well-renowned musicians and connected with former Columbia College Chicago Alumni that are current players in ASCAP, Universal Motown, and many more music industry giants.

AEMMP students and alumni share their professional and educational experiences at SXSW:

“On Friday of SXSW, I got to help set up for the AEMMP event. I took the role of stage manager throughout the day– communicating with artists, the sound engineer, the student sound engineer, and the other students helping artists to load in and out…it gave me a renewed passion for producing events.” – Parker Langvardt

“Being that it was my first time down at SXSW, it was an eye opening experience. I wish there had been more time in the day. I saw amazing shows, listened to brilliant panelists, mingled with countless industry professionals, and enjoyed local fine dining. I was in a great mood for four straight days. I couldn’t ask for more. I fully intend on returning to SXSW for the foreseeable future. I highly recommend saving the money to make the trip if you’re serious about getting involved in the music industry.” – Patrick Van Wagoner