IMS Ibiza 2025

As the sun set over Cala Llonga Bay, the 16th edition of IMS Ibiza, presented with AlphaTheta, wrapped a strong first day. Over 1,500 delegates gathered poolside for opening night networking, with music by Mont Rouge and Rafa FL, following a day of sessions that set the tone for a globally focused and intergenerational conversation.

Setting the Theme: Intergenerational Exchange

Opening the conference, Elijah introduced this year’s theme of Intergenerational Exchange, challenging the audience to reflect on their role in expanding the boundaries of electronic music. “The bond across generations is principles and ethics,” he said, asking what we are doing to pass the torch.

That message was echoed in the IMS Business Report, where Mark Mulligan (MIDiA Research) emphasized culture over data. While the industry saw 6% growth in 2024 and reached a $12.9 billion valuation, Mulligan reminded attendees: “The numbers follow from the culture.”

Global Sounds, Local Roots

Afro house was a focal point, highlighting both its global reach and deep cultural roots. In a panel led by Dare Balogun, artists Jackie Queens, Shimza, and Zakes Bantwini spoke about the genre’s evolution and potential. Jackie noted, “Spirituality, joy, and Black lived experience” as its foundation. Shimza added, “Afro house means I express myself without changing who I am.”

The day also included sessions on emerging markets in the Middle East, Spain’s evolving scene, and South Asia’s growing influence — underscoring electronic music’s decentralized, diverse future.

From Vision to Practice

One of the most practical sessions, How Managers Break Artists, drew a full crowd. Managers from Mochakk, Vintage Culture, and HE.SHE.THEY. shared advice on artist development, emphasizing persistence, networking, and unconventional strategies — including staging a fake management team to navigate industry negotiations.

Elsewhere, Patrick Mason shared a personal story of self-discovery through dance during a moving conversation in The Art of Areté space, connecting family history and identity through movement.

Shared Wisdom, Shared Experience

A conversation between managers Garry Blackburn (Fatboy Slim) and Cristiana Votta (Black Coffee) captured the day’s theme in action. “The youth learn from the older generation and vice versa,” as IMS co-founder Ben Turnerframed it. Votta added, “There’s no such thing as an average day in this business — that’s the best part.”

If day two continues at this pace, IMS Ibiza 2025 promises to be as insightful as it is global.

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