IEBA Wraps 40th Annual Conference

L-R: Dolly Parton and Jim Morey. Photo: Kevin Kennedy

The International Entertainment Buyers Association concluded its annual conference with loads of showcases and star power. Dolly Parton presented her former manager and IEBA keynote speaker Jim Morey with the Industry Achievement Award to kick off Monday’s (10/4) activities, following a stand up performance by Gloria Gaynor.

Kevin Costner and Modern West put on a great show prior to an informative and introspective Q&A session with Costner and GAC’s Suzanne Alexander. “I was always afraid to follow my first love, which is music,” said Costner. “My wife was listening to some of my music and really pushed me to reengage in my music and it was a great thing she has done for me,” he continued.

Kevin Costner. Photo: Kevin Kennedy

At the evening showcases, CAA hosted Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Tonic and Danny Gokey. BLA (Buddy Lee Attractions) offered Bush Hog, award-winning Australian sister trio The McClymonts, Colt Ford and the crowd stopping Here Come The Mummies.

WME had a crowd lined up down Broadway to get in for Steel Magnolia, Lee Brice, Clay Walker, Chris Young, Jerrod Niemann, James Otto and Randy Houser.

CEG (Conway Entertainment Group) had a late late night slot with Diana DiGarmo, The Cleverlys, and pop rocker Brennin. Other performances included David Bradley, BLA’s Matt Stillwell and Paradise Artist’s Ashley Matte.

Charlie Daniels delivered the conference’s closing keynote address.