Music conference FastForward (FFWD) will return to Hackney Church in 2027 for its biggest edition to date.
Taking place on February 10, FFWD:LDN 27 will bring together figures spanning recorded music, live, technology, artist management, marketing, law, academia and the independent sector to examine the forces shaping the future of music.
The first speakers confirmed for 2027 include:
- Steve Sayer, SVP and GM, The O2
- Alice McLean, Head of Label & Artist Solutions, UK, Believe
- Nick Eziefula, Partner, Simkins and artist Essa
- Patrick Clifton, Executive Director, ORCA
- Adele Oliver, Author, Deeping It: Colonialism, Culture & Criminalisation of UK Drill
- James Ainscough OBE, CEO, Royal Albert Hall
- Claire Ruddock, Director of Marketing and Culture, Broadwick Live
- Vanessa Picken, Director Music, TEG Australia
- Charly Beedell-Tuck, Agent, Solo
- Holly Jones, Principal, Music, Greater Manchester Combined Authority
- Antonia Lines, Senior Programmes Manager, LIVE Trust
- Dr Rebecca Fiebrink, Professor of Creative Computing, University of the Arts London
- Emily Thomas, Marketing, Motive Unknown
- Cam Petschi, Head of Music, co:brand
- James Fleury, Founder, WYTS
- Benedict Cork, artist
Further speakers, sessions and special guests will be announced over the coming months.
The 2027 programme will explore some of the most pressing questions facing music today including the impact of AI on creators, how to build sustainable careers, the importance of independence in innovation and how albums are still essential for connecting with fans.
Founded by music economist Chris Carey in 2015, FFWD has built an international reputation for bringing together different corners of the music business and creating an environment where established leaders sit alongside the people shaping what comes next.
Over the past 11 years, FFWD has featured speakers from across multiple sectors, including Karen Emanuel OBE (Key Production), Sophie Kennard (Chase & Status management Frame Artists), Nile Rodgers (Chic), Kamille (artist and writer) and Dr Jo Twist (BPI), and many more.
Early Bird tickets for FFWD:LDN 27 are on sale now via Ticketmaster’s Universe platform.
Photo credit: Amanda Rose Photography
