New York Music Month Unveils 2026 Schedule: Samara Joy, Nile Rodgers, Frankie Grande and More

The official itinerary for the ninth edition of New York Music Month has been unveiled by the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment. This citywide celebration, held annually throughout June, boasts a lineup of more than 60 complimentary events designed for musicians, industry insiders, and music enthusiasts alike. The programming features in-depth conversations with Samara Joy, a Grammy-winning artist recognized as Best New Artist, and Nile Rodgers, the iconic co-founder of Chic who has produced chart-topping hits for luminaries such as David Bowie, Madonna, and Daft Punk. Also making a notable appearance is Jesse Malin, a stalwart of New York’s punk and alternative rock scene, who will be returning to the spotlight after enduring a severe stroke in 2023. Additional participants include singer-actor Frankie Grande, among many others.

As part of the free offerings, attendees can look forward to over 20 performances from both up-and-coming and well-established acts, complemented by more than 40 discussions encompassing expert-led panels, workshops, and masterclasses. The full schedule and registration information can be accessed at NYMusicMonth.NYC. The website also provides a complimentary tool for anyone organizing a music-related event in June to gain promotional visibility. “This year’s New York Music Month signals a new chapter for the city,” stated Rafael Espinal, commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment. “Under Mayor Mamdani, we are embedding music as a cornerstone of New York’s identity and economic vitality, supporting the artists, industry professionals, crews, and venues that shape the city’s sonic landscape. With over 60 free events and resources across all five boroughs, we are broadening access because, in New York, music is not a luxury—it is a necessity.” This renewed focus on inclusivity represents a deliberate effort to level the playing field in music education and networking, ensuring that individuals without established industry ties can still gain valuable expertise. For context, a 2023 report from the Mayor’s Office revealed that New York City’s music sector contributed upwards of $5 billion to the local economy, underscoring its significance as a cultural and economic driver.

Among the standout events at the New York Music Month Conference are fireside chats featuring Samara Joy, whose 2022 debut album ‘Linger Awhile’ dominated jazz charts and earned her a Grammy; Frankie Grande, recognized for his work across Broadway, film, and television; and Golnar Khosrowshahi, founder and CEO of Reservoir Media, a leading independent music company. Panel discussions will delve into topics such as “Making it as an Indie Artist,” featuring Cautious Clay, L’Rain, Anik Kahn, Margaret Glaspy, and Anand Wilder, alongside “State of the Industry,” moderated by Dan Rys, Executive Editor for Business at Billboard. Noteworthy talks include “Nile Rodgers Up Close,” presented by Variety and Power Station at BerkleeNYC and hosted by Jem Aswad, Executive Editor for Music at Variety; “Almost Grown,” a conversation with Jesse Malin; and a TikTok and SONA Songwriter Night featuring Allissia and Lauren Christy. Additional sessions comprise a master class with celebrity vocal coach Jeremiah Abiah, a discussion on “Music Tech Capital – Where Investors Are Placing Their Bets” led by Cherie Hu of Water & Music, and a mental health conversation with Khantrast, presented by More of Less with Jess at The Orchard. These sessions are crafted to tackle both creative and business hurdles, reflecting the multifaceted needs of modern music professionals.

Performance highlights encompass The Radio City Concert Series, produced by co-sign, which underscores the role of independent radio in New York City through events curated by local noncommercial partners like WNYC, WFUV, WFMU, The Lot Radio, Shereos Radio, East Village Radio, Maker Park Radio, and WKCR. The NYMM Concert 3 Part Series, produced by MeanRed Productions, will stage concerts at venues such as Le Poisson Rouge, SOBs, and Herbert Von King Park, featuring artists like Timi Dre, Jubilee, Ultra Violet, Quiana Parks, The Antlers, Dariel Amant, SALIMATA, and more. Numerous additional events will shine a light on emerging artists who are shaping the city’s musical culture. For those requiring rehearsal space, partners include Smash Studios in Manhattan, Greenwich House Music School in Manhattan, Brooklyn Conservatory of Music Studios in Brooklyn, and Fenix Studios in Staten Island. This extensive network of venues and resources highlights the city’s dedication to fostering talent at every level, from initial practice to public performance.