The A3C 2023 conference and festival delivered in-depth panel discussions, workshops, mentor sessions, and networking opportunities. Hosted at AmericasMart Atlanta, headlining speakers included Taye Diggs, Pinky Cole, Jeezy, Kasim Reed, Timbaland, and more.

The following comes from Open On Sunday, a company DMN is proud to be partnering with.

The A3C conference celebrates the impact of hip hop culture and its evolution. Founded in 2005, the A3C has evolved considerably, but the uniquely-Atlanta vibe continues to thrive.

Every year, A3C covers emerging industries and topics, bringing together a diverse group of music makers and entrepreneurs for expertly curated panels and sessions. The A3C 2023 conference-festival hybrid featured music technology and business leaders including former Atlanta mayor Kasim Reed, fintech Greenwood’s CEO Ryan Glover, and Kevin ‘Coach K’ Lee — cofounder of label Quality Control Music (QC).

Speakers tackled topics related to hip hop, promotion of financial literacy, artist empowerment, business, music, and culture. A3C also provided the backdrop for networking opportunities, alongside technology and talent showcases.

Tech influencers leveraged the conference to showcase the latest innovations in music gaming. Meanwhile, rap artist Bless Montana said he was attending A3C to network and reconnect with people in the industry. Up-and-coming musicians and artists also took the opportunity to meet new people, and share their talents with the community.

Speaking to a packed house, rapper Jeezy promoted his best-selling book, Adversity for Sale. The Atlanta veteran also signed free copies of his book for fans.

Wallo267 from the hit weekly podcast Million Dollaz Worth of Game shared his triumphant life story, inspiring and motivating the crowd with his wisdom.

During one informative panel session, Kevin ‘Coach K’ Lee explained how Motown legend Berry Gordy inspired Lee to grow his label QC into a global brand.

After studying how Gordy once took his Motown roster on a trip to Europe, Lee told investors that he wanted to visit all the overseas markets where their music was being streamed, set up meetings with colleagues, and discuss in-person how to best connect with their audience.

“I said I want to go stamp my flag down. [They] thought I was crazy,” said Lee, adding that his strategy worked. QC exploded into one of the biggest music labels of this generation, eventually securing a blockbuster deal and partnership with Korea-based Hybe — for an estimated $300 million.

As expected, A3C was the spot to get plugged in with Atlanta, and to experience the latest in urban music, tech, and culture.

A3C 2023 took place on September 28 – October 1.