Seasoned music industry veterans will come together from over eight states to commune and expand their networks; while sharing their knowledge and experience with those who are serious about their career in the music business. This official launch of the F.I.R.M is composed of educational panels, showcases, awards, and a networking picnic.

The first three nights of the Fest will be headlined by a Silk reunion on Thursday, July 16th; an appearance by Gravy (Actor/Rapper) from the film Notorious on Friday, July 17th and a performance by Ke Ke Wyatt on Saturday, July 18th.

In addition, there will be a community picnic on Sunday at Coan Park from 12noon-2pm; a panel about alternative ways to break your project without a major, and a food drive for Empty Vessels Music. They will also be accepting used instruments and monetary donations ( www.emptyvesselmusic.com.) This organization is a for-impact 501(c) 3 music label promoting good-will, humanitarian support, and practical solutions for the needy. Their efforts are promoted throughout the world by using life changing music, musicianaries, and extraordinary people as the primary vehicle.

Official Registration for the Music Fest will be held on Wednesday July 15,2009 from 10am-2pm at 404 Lounge (1270 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta,GA); Thursday July 16thand Friday July 17th from 11am-6pm at The Artmore Hotel (1302 W Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA). Pre-registration for The Music Fest and advance tickets can be purchased online by visiting the official website and myspace page www.firmmusicfest.com and http://www.myspace.com/firmmusicfest.The goal of this music fest is to aide in the rebuilding of theAtlanta music community while providing better networking opportunities, linking those seeking to be in the music business with those who are already established. This will empower individuals and companies to take ownership of themselves, defining their true independence.

Honorary chairman of The F.I.R.M Music Fest and Senior VP of A&R for Jive Records, Wayne Williams, not only embraced Kevin Shine's vision, but found Atlanta to be a viable and resourceful place for new and exciting talent to be discovered. Atlanta is well known through out the world as the "mecca" for music, having produced platinum superstars such as, Outkast, Ludacris, Keri Hilson, Usher, TLC, Monica, Keyshia Cole, TI, Young Jeezy, and Gucci Mane.