Derby Music Industry Social Brings Derby’s Creative Community Together at Electric Daisy

The fourth Derby Music Industry Social proved once again why it has quickly become one of the most valuable networking events in Derby’s grassroots music scene, bringing together musicians, promoters, venue owners, DJs and creatives for an evening of conversation, collaboration and community at Electric Daisy.

Held on 9 June 2026, the free event welcomed another impressive turnout from across Derby’s independent music industry. Whether attendees were established promoters, venue owners, touring musicians, emerging bands, DJs or creatives working behind the scenes, the atmosphere throughout the evening was relaxed, welcoming and full of optimism.

Opening the event, Kristen Neilson and James Thornhill addressed the crowd with a short speech, thanking everyone for continuing to support Derby’s creative community before encouraging people to make the most of the opportunity to meet new faces and build new relationships.

That message summed up exactly what these socials have become.

Unlike traditional networking events, the Derby Music Industry Social feels genuinely organic. Conversations happen naturally, ideas are exchanged freely and there is never any pressure. Some people arrive looking for collaborators on their next project, others are hoping to meet promoters or venue owners, while some simply want to reconnect with familiar faces and stay involved in Derby’s thriving independent music scene.

One of the biggest strengths of the event is the variety of people in the room. It is not just musicians talking to musicians. Promoters can meet photographers. Bands can meet graphic designers. DJs can connect with venues. Videographers can discover artists looking for music videos. Someone might even find the final member needed to complete a new band.

That mix of creative talent is exactly what keeps Derby’s independent scene moving forwards.

During the evening, we had the chance to catch up with Connor from Electric Daisy, discussing what the venue has been working on recently as well as some exciting ideas that could be on the horizon. It was also a great opportunity to meet several musicians we had not crossed paths with before, proving once again that there are always new people becoming part of Derby’s growing creative community.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from every Derby Music Industry Social is how approachable everyone is. It does not matter whether someone has been promoting shows for years or has only just picked up their first instrument, everyone is made to feel welcome.

That sense of openness is something Derby’s music scene should be proud of.

Events like this are about much more than swapping business cards. They help strengthen relationships across the city, encourage new collaborations and remind everyone that Derby’s grassroots music scene is built by people supporting one another.

If anyone is involved in Derby’s music industry, these socials should already be in the diary. Equally, they are just as valuable for photographers, filmmakers, designers, illustrators, marketers, content creators and anyone else whose skills could support local artists, venues and events. The creative industries overlap more than many people realise, and opportunities often begin with a simple conversation.

The best part?

They’re completely free to attend.

If this month’s event was missed, there is every reason to make the next one. Every Derby Music Industry Social seems to introduce new faces, spark new collaborations and strengthen existing friendships, and that can only be good news for the future of Derby’s independent music scene.

As always, the message remains simple: keep supporting local music, keep supporting local creatives and keep pushing the scene forwards together.

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