On Our Radar: This Week in Music Cities

From Tshwane's creative summit to Fayetteville's emerging scene, here's your weekly briefing on how music is shaping cities worldwide.

This week's global music landscape shows cities and organizations increasingly leveraging music for economic development, cultural exchange, and community support. From industry convergence in South Africa to hurricane recovery in Jamaica, here are the key news stories you need to know.

On Our Radar: This Week in Music Cities

Here's the global music news you might have missed:

1. Global Music Industry Gathers in Tshwane for ACCES 2025

Music industry leaders from across Africa and beyond converge in Tshwane for the ACCES 2025 conference, driving conversations about the future of Africa's creative industries and cultural exchange. This gathering represents a significant step in shaping the continent's creative economy and fostering pan-African collaboration.

2. South Asian Sounds Create Global Musical Impact

Musical traditions from India and Pakistan are gaining significant international recognition, influencing global music trends and connecting diaspora communities worldwide through shared cultural heritage. This movement demonstrates how traditional sounds are finding new audiences and creating fresh pathways for cultural diplomacy.

3. Bob & Rita Marley Foundation Launches Hurricane Relief Effort

Following Hurricane Melissa's devastation, the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation has initiated a dedicated relief effort to support Jamaican communities in rebuilding lives, homes, and local infrastructure. This response highlights how music organizations are playing crucial roles in community recovery and sustainable development.

4. Fayetteville, Arkansas Emerges as Growing Music Destination

Fayetteville, Arkansas, continues to build its reputation as an emerging music destination, showcasing its vibrant local scene and cultural attractions to visitors and music enthusiasts. The city's strategic development of music tourism offers a model for how smaller cities can leverage cultural assets for economic growth.

5. NEON Forum Shapes Night-Time Economy Strategy

The NEON Forum brings together industry leaders, policymakers and creators to develop comprehensive strategies for strengthening New South Wales' night-time economy through cultural programming. This initiative represents how cities are taking strategic approaches to supporting after-hours cultural activities and entertainment districts.

Stay informed with our weekly global music cities briefing.

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