Terry Golden has become a notable figure in the Electronic Music scene, known for his unique sound and style, and unwavering focus on his career. Fresh off the back of this year’s Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), Terry took some time to share his experiences and reflections on one of the most influential music conferences in the world. As someone who prioritised networking over performing at ADE 2024, Terry offers his perspective on how events like this are shaping the future of the scene. Hi Terry Golden, how are you?
I’m feeling great, but also very busy after ADE – and I’m just fully focused on achieving my goals
To start, can you tell us about your experience at ADE this year?
This year’s ADE was my best and most rewarding year. This is my 5th time and I really had some great meetings and made some fantastic new connections. You could feel that there were a lot of visitors, but also that there was a great willingness to meet new people
Which events or sessions stood out to you the most and why?
This year was 100% networking for me, and to a lesser extent going to lectures etc. There were some cool speed dating events, I also took part in some fantastic label nights etc., where I also met some interesting people
Were there any trends or ideas that caught your attention during the conference?
Of course, there was a lot of talk about AI, and for most of the lectures, AI was somehow a focal point.
With several events across multiple venues, ADE can be overwhelming. How did you decide which events to attend?
As I said earlier, my focus point was to network as much as possible. So, I spent a lot of time around Andaz, and here too I had the planned meetings, which I had confirmed via the Pro platform, from home.
Did you discover any emerging artists or genres during ADE that surprised or inspired you?
Honestly no, but that wasn’t something I had to focus on either, of course there was plenty of talents present.
In your opinion, how do you think the event is helping to shape the future of Electronic Music?
I thought it was important that we have a focal point where the industry can meet at all levels. However, I could wish that there was more openness from established artists, labels etc. to take new talents under their wing and give them a push forward.
ADE is a prime networking opportunity. Did you make any new connections that you think will influence your work moving forward?
Yes, I made a lot of new contacts. The goal was to find an agent or 2, and it might seem to have succeeded. At the same time, I got to meet old friends and create new friendships – so that will definitely make a difference.
Can you share what you most enjoyed about your time in Amsterdam this year? Do you have a favourite part about the city?
I thought the intensity around ADE, that it takes place in the center with walking distance to most things – that’s what Amsterdam can do, which not many other cities would be able to offer.
As an attendee, what would you say sets ADE apart from other global music conferences and festivals?
All events have a lot of parties, and to a lesser extent good opportunity to both learn a lot and in particular meet new acquaintances and potential partnerships – that’s what made ADE different, it’s also just much bigger than any other.
Did you perform at any events for ADE this year? If so, can you share how you found the experience?
I actually had 2 good events I could have played. But that would take away from my focus and dedicated goal of finding new agents, so this year I decided not to perform.
What do you hope to see from ADE in the future, both as an attendee and a professional in the Electronic Music industry?
Unfortunately, I think that the large commercial events take up far too much and that ADE has become a little too commercial. I wish it could be less formal and less commercial like it was a few years ago. It kind of spoils the mood a little bit, in my opinion.
Terry Golden’s insights into ADE offer his personal look at the reality of navigating one of the industry’s most significant networking opportunities. His dedication to building meaningful connections and his thoughtful reflection of the event’s evolution highlight his commitment to the growth of his career, as well as, his interest in fostering the integrity of the Electronic Music community.
Terry Golden Online
Terry Golden – ADE Roundup – Interview
We sat down with Terry to dive into his ADE highlights, thoughts on the industry’s evolving landscape, and his aspirations for the future of the conference and Electronic Music.