Pharrell Williams To Keynote MIDEM

Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and producer Pharrell Williams will make one of the keynote speeches at MIDEM in Cannes, France.

Part of the producing collective The Neptunes and singer and producer of N.E.R.D, Williams will speak in a forum on the music business in the digital age.

Last year he formed a partnership with Cornerstone, the New York and LA-based branding agency specializing in the music industry, to develop innovative projects with brands.

At a time when monetisation of content is so important to the music community, Williams will expand on how artists can use the digital revolution to monetise their work, attract and engage audiences, and develop fan relationship.

Other speakers include London lawyer Robert Allan, a partner in Michael Simkins LLP. Allan, who specialises in music industry deals, advised EMI during its acquisition of Chrysalis Records and the back catalogue of Windswept Pacific. His other clients include Filmtrax, Virgin Records and Virgin Music Publishing.

International Music Managers’ Forum executive director Jake Beaumont-Nesbitt, will talk about how acts may try to maximise their publishing royalties.

MIDEM is Jan. 23-27.