LL COOL J Joins IEBA 2026 As Keynote Speaker

LL COOL J is set to appear at the International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) as a keynote speaker for the 2026 conference, held Oct. 4-6 at the Grand Hyatt & The Pinnacle in Nashville.

The legendary emcee will be in conversation with Sixthman CEO Jeff Cuellar about “building a culture-driven brand through live experiences, premium content, and community,” per an official press release. Additionally, LL will speak about Rock the Bells, explaining how the media platform came to be in 2018 and outlining its strategy, mission, and scope.

“We are thrilled to welcome LL COOL J as our keynote speaker for IEBA 2026,” said Brian Wagner, Executive Director of IEBA. “He is a cultural force whose influence has defined generations, broken boundaries, and helped shape Hip-Hop and pop culture. This conversation promises to offer attendees rare insight into how visionary leadership, cultural authenticity, and creativity come together to build live-event brands that endure.”

The IEBA’s annual conference is a gathering of the industry’s premier talent buyers, agents, promoters, venue executives, festival producers, fair organizers, and other live entertainment professionals for three days of networking, education, and business development.

As the live industry’s leading trade organization, IEBA offers members access to the latest market intelligence while fostering relationships and ideas that help drive business across the entertainment landscape.

Registration for IEBA 2026 is now open. Current-rate registration is $884 for Professional Members and $492 for Young Professional Members (under age 30). Rates are set to increase Aug. 28, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. CT. Single-day passes and Student/Educator rates are also available. Complete registration information is available here.

IEBA membership is required to attend.