Wayne Marshall ADD

Island Music Conference 2026 - Uniting The World Through Music

01/27/2026 by Munchy

February is Reggae Month, and the celebration of our favorite musical genre is just around the corner. One of the cornerstones of the event calendar is the Island Music Conference (IMC), which returns for the fourth time to Jamaica’s vibrant capital Kingston.

Founded by superstar Shaggy, renowned music manager and powerhouse behind some Jamaica’s greatest entertainers Sharon Burke, and PR and event manager Judith Bodley, the IMC is a four-day conference dedicated to artists, DJs, songwriters, managers, producers, beatmakers, publicists, and everyone who passionately supports and shapes Jamaican music with creativity and commitment.

From February 25 to 28, the conference will take place primarily at the Courtleigh Auditorium in Kingston, featuring more than 15 panels and workshops. Under the inspiring theme “Music Is the Unifying Force”, the IMC offers industry professionals a unique space to connect, exchange ideas, empower one another, address challenges, and develop solutions – always guided by the spirit that we are stronger together.

The panels are as diverse as they are insightful, including topics such as marketing, licensing and royalties, the power of producers, and booking for major events. The lineup of speakers is equally impressive: queen of the dancehall Spice will discuss Influencer Entrepreneurship, artiste Teejay will share his experiences in PR and publicity, and Shaggy himself will offer guidance on how to successfully build and position a brand.

A very special guest at this year’s Island Music Conference is Moses Michael Levi Barrow, better known as Shyne. Some might know him as the Grammy award-winning writer, performer and rapper whose debut album went platinum in 2000. Others will recognize him for his political career in his home country of Belize, where he has been active in the United Democratic Party, served five years as a Member of Parliament, and was elected leader of his party and the opposition in 2021. As a keynote speaker, Shyne will trace his remarkable journey “from stage to state” on the second day of the conference.

Beyond these compelling discussions, there’s a standout highlight for all aspiring songwriters. As part of a songwriting camp, participants have the chance to win the full production of a song. Until January 31, talents can submit the lyrics to their latest song. This submission not only offers the opportunity to be selected as one of the 15 workshop participants, but also the chance for the best entry to be transformed from words on paper into a finished track – created with the support of some of the island’s finest artists and producers.

All information, program details, and the full schedule can be found at ISLANDMUSICCONFERENCE.com