Community Conversations

Unlocking the True Value of Fans for Artists and IP Owners: Live from IMS Dubai, 2025

VERO CEO and Co-Founder Ayman Hariri takes the stage with dance-music pioneer Pete Tong at IMS Dubai.

Creative Freedom in the Age of Algorithmic Gatekeepers: Live from The Great Escape, 2025

Creative freedom is challenging in an algorithm-driven world, but with the rise of direct-to-fan platforms and tools, the tide is turning. This panel from VERO Music takes an artist-first look at how artists can stay in control of their vision — and balance making music and growing passionate fan communities. Speakers: Jamie Jessup [https://vero.co/jamie] (Moderator) – Head of Creative Partnerships at VERO Evenson Andre [https://vero.co/evenson] – Artist “Evenson” (USA) Jesse Appiah [https://vero.co/jappiahmusic] – Artist “J Appiah” (UK) Pete Lawrie Winfield [https://vero.co/utrb] – Artist “Until the Ribbon Breaks” & Creative Director at VERO Music Róisín Warner – Head of Marketing at Blackstar Conversation themes: 00:04:25: Exploring the meaning of creative freedom, an artist-first perspective on what it means to create, share and experience what we are most passionate about. 00:12:30: The impact of technology platforms on culture, creativity and artists development — specifically social and distribution platforms. 00:27:26: A look at how passionate fans can play an even more significant role as new wave patrons of the arts. 00:37:29: Why we need creativity and art for connection, community and thriving cultures.