Dr. Richard James Burgess To Step Down As A2IM President & CEO In 2026

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Dr. Richard James Burgess. Photo: Dan Bassini

Dr. Richard James Burgess plans to step down as President & CEO of the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) in January 2026 after a decade of service. He shared the news during the Annual General Meeting that closed out A2IM Indie Week 2024.

“As A2IM approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, I am filled with immense pride for our collective achievements and honored to have been the longest-serving head of A2IM to date,” said Burgess. “Leading this exceptional organization has been an extraordinary experience. I am profoundly grateful for the support and dedication of our Board members, the invaluable work of our founding members and prior presidents who set up the organization to succeed, and the unwavering commitment of our many members. Our success is a testament to the hard work and passion of the many team members I’ve had the pleasure to work alongside.

“Thank you for entrusting me with the well-being of your organization for all these years. I am confident that the future holds great promise for our independent community, and I look forward to celebrating our continued growth and accomplishments a decade from now.”

Dr. Burgess has been instrumental in advancing the interests of independent music. Throughout his tenure, he has overseen a period of significant growth and innovation for A2IM. His leadership is considered to be characterized by a deep commitment to championing the rights and interests of independent music creators and fostering an inclusive community while navigating the evolving music landscape.

The organization’s Board of Directors has initiated a search for his successor.

Liza Anderson
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