By: Lennard James
In an era where independence is power, Kevin Shine and Writing Sessions America (WSA) have become cornerstones of empowerment for artists determined to take control of their music careers. As the world prepares for the 12th Annual Unplugged Music Experience (UME) scheduled for November 13–16, 2025, it’s clear that this conference represents far more than an annual industry gathering. It is a movement, a mission, and a model of what sustainable success looks like for today’s music creators.
Photo Courtesy: Writing Sessions America
Under the banner “Era of the Indi-Preneur,” this year’s UME Virtual Conference celebrates the modern independent artist: one who not only writes and performs but also understands the business, builds networks, and monetizes creativity in new and innovative ways. More than 250 singers, songwriters, producers, and entrepreneurs are expected to join this four-day event, designed to educate, connect, and inspire.
From its inception, Kevin Shine’s vision for WSA was rooted in access, creating a space where talent could meet opportunity without the barriers that often divide emerging artists from industry decision-makers. Through WSA, countless creatives have found mentorship, exposure, and the confidence to evolve from dreamers into entrepreneurs. As Kevin puts it, “A successful independent music entrepreneur is someone who builds a business ecosystem, an incubator where products, services, and content ignite traffic, capture data, and unlock revenue beyond traditional music sales.”
That forward-thinking approach has helped redefine what it means to be an artist in today’s digital marketplace. For Shine, it’s about rediscovering “the equivalent of the dollar” teaching artists how to turn creativity into commerce through marketing, branding, and collaboration. WSA doesn’t just teach artists how to make music; it shows them how to build a legacy.
The UME 2025 Conference stands as a testament to that mission. Over the course of four dynamic days, participants will gain access to workshops, live performances, pitch sessions, and panel discussions led by some of the industry’s respected names. Sessions such as “A Call 2 Action Defending Creative Rights” and AI-focused discussions ensure attendees are not only inspired but informed, equipped with knowledge to protect their art and build long-term stability.
For Kevin Shine, 2025 holds profound personal significance. This year’s conference is dedicated to the memory of two beloved figures, Juanita Stephens and Nikki Walker, both of whom played pivotal roles in the WSA family. Their loss has strengthened Kevin’s commitment to celebrating life, collaboration, and community. “I was raised by my mother, Martha Shine, to be tough and resilient,” Kevin reflects. “Failures are teachers. Solutions are a mindset.” It is this grounded wisdom, coupled with humility and faith, that fuels his leadership.
Each year, UME culminates in one of the anticipated highlights of the music calendar, the ICON Awards Ceremony. This year’s event, scheduled for November 14, will honor executives and creators whose influence continues to shape the music landscape. Among the distinguished honorees are Cannon Kent (Atlantic Records), Jonnetta Patton, Derryck “Big Tank” Thornton, Ann Nesby, Jeanine McLean-Williams, Shawn Barron, Reza Sarrafieh, Truman Wallace, and Tonya Byrd, among others. These trailblazers exemplify excellence and resilience, the very spirit WSA stands for.
Beyond the awards, the conference lineup is genuinely remarkable. Esteemed industry professionals, including Michele Vice Maslin, Darrell “Delite” Allamby, Makeba Riddick-Woods, Martin Berishaj, Aria Johnson, Kevin McCall, Blac Elvis, and representatives from SoundExchange, FYI.AI, Keith Thomas, Anthony Little, Tommy Simms, Dr. Hannon Lane and Leauxfi, J Klassik, Octane, Jay Gilbert, Walter De Brouwer, Makeba Riddick- Woodsand MLC will lead panels, mentorship sessions, and listening opportunities for both new and seasoned artists.
Through these interactive experiences, attendees will learn how to pitch their music effectively, navigate sync licensing opportunities, and understand how to leverage emerging technologies to advance their careers. The inclusion of AI integration sessions and live radio listening showcases further cement WSA’s position at the cutting edge of industry innovation.
But beyond the impressive roster and resources, what truly sets the UME experience apart is its heart. WSA isn’t about exclusivity, it’s about inclusion. It’s a safe space where creators are celebrated, educated, and empowered to walk in their purpose. Kevin Shine’s philosophy is simple yet transformative: community over competition.
Over the years, many artists who attended UME have gone on to achieve significant success, landing record deals, sync placements, and television appearances, yet Kevin measures his success by a different metric: growth. “The goal,” he explains, “is to help artists see themselves not just as performers, but as business owners, investors, and cultural architects.”
In a rapidly changing industry, this mindset is vital. By blending music education with entrepreneurship, WSA equips artists to build their own sustainable empires. Every panel, every conversation, and every connection at UME reinforces this truth: independence isn’t isolation, it’s innovation.
The 2025 Unplugged Music Experience arrives at a pivotal moment for the global creative community. As independent creators continue to redefine the future of entertainment, platforms like WSA prove that success is not limited to those with primary label backing. With guidance from leaders like Kevin Shine, artists are learning to leverage the power of collaboration, digital marketing, and data-driven growth to build lasting influence.
As the conference approaches, Kevin’s message to attendees is one of hope and preparation: research the participants, connect intentionally, and absorb every opportunity. For him, UME 2025 is not just another event; it’s a family reunion for visionaries who dare to dream big and work even harder.
In the words of Kevin Shine, “This is an era of accountability, resilience, and community. Together, we can turn setbacks into setups and passion into power.”
For emerging and established artists alike, the Unplugged Music Experience is more than a conference; it’s a catalyst. It’s where art meets purpose, creativity meets business, and faith meets opportunity.
For more information or to register, visit writingsessionsamerica.net, email wsaume2025biz@gmail.com, and follow @writingsessionsamerica and @kevinmusic.thefirm on Instagram.
