Island Music Conference (IMC), the premier annual gathering of global music professionals in the Caribbean, returns for its fourth staging February 25–28, 2026.

Founded in February 2023, IMC has rapidly established itself as a vital meeting point for the international music industry; bringing together artistes, executives, producers, managers, songwriters creatives, music journalists, and innovators to exchange ideas, build partnerships, showcase new talent, and engage with the global music economy from the cultural heart of Jamaica.

The theme for IMC 2026 is ‘Music Is the Unifying Force’ and serves as a declaration of the enduring power of sound to bring people together across parishes, borders, cultures, and generations.

This year’s conference is scheduled for the Courtleigh Auditorium and features a compelling line-up of keynote speakers whose stories and expertise span artistry, leadership, storytelling, and the business of music.

Among the 2026 keynote speakers is Belizean politician and former Bad Boy Records artiste Moses Michael Levi Barrow, known professionally as Shyne, whose journey from global music star to national leadership offers a powerful narrative on transformation, resilience, and the enduring influence of culture. Shyne’s keynote is ‘From Stage to State’. He served as Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives, and the leader of the Belize United Democratic Party.

Keynoting in film is Rodney Barnes, acclaimed storyteller and creative strategist, who will deliver a presentation titled ‘Storytelling Power: From Culture to Commerce’. The multi award-winning screenwriter and producer has written and produced The Boondocks, My Wife and Kids, Everybody Hates Chris, Those Who Can’t, to list a few.

In addition to its keynote sessions, IMC 2026 will feature high-impact panels led by some of the most respected voices in music production, publishing, and artist development.

One of the highly anticipated sessions, The Power of the Producer, brings together Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, Silent Addy, and David “Yeti Beats” Spencer, with Max Glazer serving as host. This panel will explore the producer’s evolving role as creative architect, brand builder, and industry power player.

Another cornerstone discussion, Breaking Into Publishing, will demystify one of the most critical areas of the music business. Panellists include Martin Kierszenbaum, CEO and founder of Cherry Tree Music Group, and Ethan Bear, co-founder of Rebel.

Creator services and former senior vice-president at Create Music Group; Ron André “Elvis” Telford, co-founder and CEO of Creative Titans; and John Baker, founder of G Street Records and co-owner of G Jam Studios Resort, will unpack publishing access, ownership, global administration, and long-term revenue strategy.

IMC 2026 will one again set to position Jamaica at the heart of the global music conversation.

Shaggy, co-founder of IMC.