Jim James and Jimmy Jam to Speak at NIVA ‘25 

Jim James will kick of NIVA ‘25 with a keynote address on Sunday, June 22. The My Morning Jacket frontman will take the stage at The Pabst Theater in Milwaukee, Wisc. to discuss touring and open up the National Independent Venue Association’s fourth annual conference.

In addition, legendary producer Jimmy Jam will address the conference of the nation’s independent live concert, comedy, promoter, venue, and festival industry on June 24 in a fireside chat. The music industry icon will share insights from his legendary career, experiences on the road, and his perspective on where the business is headed—especially through the lens of the young artists he mentors.

“I grew up playing in small clubs which was the foundation of my career,” Jimmy Jam said in a release. “It’s important that the ecosystem survives for artists to connect with fans.”

NIVA ‘25 will take place from June 22-25 throughout the city of Milwaukee. The conference will hit several iconic independent venues in the city including The Rave, The Pabst Theater, Falcoln Bowl, Shank Hall, Riverside Theater, X-Ray Arcade, Cactus Club and Vivarium.

NIVA ‘25 will feature live music and programmed discussions to mark the essential relationship between touring artists and indie venues. Elizabeth Moen, a Live List 2025 artist, and Ladybird will take the stage Monday night, June 23, at Brew City Bash at The Rave. Other exciting musical performances include Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit at the Riverside Theater on June 25, Shawn Mullins at Shank Hall on June 24 and comedian Kyle Kinane for two nights (June 24-25) at Vivarium. The event will also include a local indie artist event and local folk night.

NIVA ‘25 attendees will also enjoy access to tours of the permanent festival grounds and complimentary admission to Summerfest 2025 which takes place over three weekends (June 19-21, June 26-28 and July 3-5) in Milwaukee.

For more information on NIVA ‘25 and the lineup of events and panels, head here.