WMBA Announces ‘Music Is My Business’ Panel Series & Fundraiser

WMBA members. Photo: Jessica McIntosh Photography

The Women’s Music Business Association (WMBA) is hosting its inaugural panel of the “Music Is My Business” series on Tuesday, July 18 at 6 p.m. at Starstruck Entertainment in Nashville. The event will provide an exclusive insider’s look into the business of music, featuring panelists Kari Barnhart (Studio Bank), Lauren Spahn (Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP) and Kristin Lee (KLBM). The WMBA extends an open invitation to all industry professionals to attend the event, and WMBA members enjoy free admission, while non-members can attend for $10 at the door.

Ally Free. Photo: Virginia Brick

The WMBA is also kicking off its 2023 fundraising initiatives with an inclusive T-shirt campaign titled “Music Is My Business.” The campaign, which also begins July 18, pays homage to a line of shirts that WMBA members proudly wore for over two decades. These revitalized shirts embody the essence of inclusiveness while celebrating the diverse narratives and contributions of individuals within the music industry.

The funds raised from the campaign will directly support WMBA’s vision and mission. The organization aims to fuel future diverse programming, contribute to the Nashville community, expand recruitment efforts and empower more female leaders within the industry. The shirts will be available for purchase both in-person at the upcoming panel event and online through the official WMBA Nashville website.

“To be given a platform where I can give a voice to those like myself who aren’t able to speak any longer or won’t due to fear-the outcast or judged, music is the universal language in which I am able to give those said voices meaning- as well as my own,” says Ally Free, Musician/Songwriter & Member of Black Opry. “That’s why ‘Music Is My Business.’ Wearing this shirt makes me feel empowered, inspired and accepted.”