Artist Rights Symposium at American University: Event Schedule
Join us for the Fourth Annual Artist Rights Symposium on Wednesday, November 20, at the prestigious Kogod School of Business at American University. This year, the symposium promises an enriching day filled with engaging panels discussing pressing issues such as “The Trouble with Tickets,” “Overview of Current Issues in Artificial Intelligence Litigation,” and “Name, Image, and Likeness Rights in the Age of AI.” Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear from keynote speaker Graham Davies, the esteemed President and CEO of the Digital Media Association (DiMA), who will share valuable insights into the evolving landscape of artist rights and digital media.
Founded by Dr. David C. Lowery, a noted University of Georgia professor, musician, and activist, the Artist Rights Symposium has been a cornerstone event in Athens, Georgia, for three years. This year, as the symposium relocates to Washington, D.C., it stands to benefit from the rich tapestry of music industry professionals residing in the capital. Notable panelists include Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association, Ken Doroshow, Chief Legal Officer of the Recording Industry Association of America, and Jalyce E. Mangum, Attorney-Advisor at the U.S. Copyright Office, among others. Their diverse expertise will provide invaluable perspectives on the critical issues facing artists today.
The Artist Rights Symposium is proudly supported by the Artist Rights Institute, an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of artists and creators. This collaboration underscores the importance of fostering dialogues around the challenges and opportunities within the music and entertainment industries, particularly in the context of rapidly advancing technology and evolving legal frameworks.
Discover the comprehensive schedule of events outlined below to ensure you don’t miss any critical discussions. Each session is designed to address contemporary issues that affect artists and their rights in our digital age.
9:15-10:15 – Addressing the Challenges of Ticket Resellers: Join our panel as we explore the complexities surrounding ticket resale markets and potential legislative solutions. Featuring insights from key industry figures: Kevin Erickson, Director of the Future of Music Coalition; Dr. David C. Lowery, Co-founder of Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven; Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association; and Mala Sharma, President of Georgia Music Partners. The session will be moderated by Christian L. Castle, Esq., Director of the Artist Rights Institute.
10:15-10:30: Presentation on NIVA Speculative Ticketing Project by Kogod students, showcasing innovative ideas and research on ticketing strategies.
10:45-11:00: Exploring Current Issues in Artificial Intelligence Litigation: Gain insights from Kevin Madigan, Vice President of Legal Policy and Copyright Counsel at the Copyright Alliance, as he provides an overview of the significant legal challenges and developments in AI-related litigation affecting the creative community.
11:00-12:00 – Transparency Requirements for AI Technology: Delve into the need for transparency in AI technology with speakers including Danielle Coffey, President & CEO of the News Media Alliance; Dahvi Cohen, Legislative Assistant to U.S. Congressman Adam Schiff; and Ken Doroshow, Chief Legal Officer of the Recording Industry Association of America. This session will be moderated by Linda Bloss-Baum, Director of the Kogod School of Business’s Business & Entertainment Program.
12:30-1:30: Keynote Address by Graham Davies: The President and CEO of the Digital Media Association will share his perspectives on the future of digital media and the vital role of artist rights in this evolving landscape.
1:45-2:45 – Unpacking Bad Song Metadata and Unmatched Funds: This session, titled “Chicken and Egg Sandwich,” will cover the challenges surrounding song metadata, unmatched funds, and Know Your Customer (KYC) practices. Panelists include Richard James Burgess, MBE, President & CEO of the American Association of Independent Music, Helienne Lindvall, President of the European Composer & Songwriter Alliance, Abby North, President of North Music Group, and Anjula Singh, CFO and COO of SoundExchange. The discussion will be moderated by Christian L. Castle, Esq, Director of the Artist Rights Institute.
3:15-3:30: Overview of International Artificial Intelligence Legislation: George York, Senior Vice President of International Policy from the RIAA, will provide insights into the global legal landscape regarding artificial intelligence and its implications for creators.
3:30-4:30 – Protecting Creator Rights in the Age of AI: This panel will discuss current initiatives designed to safeguard name, image, and likeness rights amidst technological advancements. Join Jeffrey Bennett, General Counsel at SAG-AFTRA; Jen Jacobsen, Executive Director of the Artist Rights Alliance; and Jalyce E. Mangum, Attorney-Advisor at the U.S. Copyright Office. The session will be moderated by John Simson, Program Director Emeritus of Business & Entertainment at the Kogod School of Business, American University.
