Global Mixx Music and Film Forum Marks 20 Years of Creative Leadership in Chicago (Chicago, IL) – The Global Mixx Music and Film Forum will return to Chicago October 23–25, celebrating two decades of amplifying creative voices in music, film and multimedia. The three-day industry conference, now in its 16th installment, will be held at Malcolm X College and is presented by McCoy Promotions and Investments.
Founded in 2005, Global Mixx has evolved from a grassroots DJ retreat into a nationally recognized media and entertainment forum, offering education, professional development and networking for emerging talent. Organizers say this milestone year will honor the forum’s legacy while investing in a new generation of storytellers and creators.
“This was never just about entertainment—it’s about empowerment,” said founder and producer Mary Datcher. “Through triumphs and challenges, we’ve stayed committed to building bridges between creativity and opportunity. Now more than ever, it’s vital to give artists the tools to express freedom through their craft.”
Keynote Voices in Film and Music
The 2025 forum will feature two prominent headliners:
Film Keynote Speaker: Sam Q. Bailey
The Chicago-born filmmaker is known for his work on Dear White People, Power Book II: Ghost and Blindspotting. Bailey said he is proud to return to his hometown to inspire young creatives.
“Global Mixx represents everything that makes Chicago’s creative community special — its drive, its honesty, and its purpose,” he said.
Music Masterclass: Rico Love
Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Rico Love, whose credits include work with Beyoncé, Usher, and Mary J. Blige, will lead a masterclass in music production.
“Creating great music starts with knowing your worth and understanding the business,” Love said. “Global Mixx is that safe space where creativity and knowledge collide.”
Legacy and Support
The forum has drawn major industry influencers over the years, including Common, Kanye West, No I.D., Christine Swanson, George Tillman Jr., DJ Terry Hunter and Da Internz. This year’s event is backed by McCoy Promotions and Investments, whose CEO Troshawn McCoy emphasized the importance of corporate support in creative development.
“It is important that business leaders connect the youth through productive activities that engage them to become creative and motivated,” McCoy said. “We are committed to supporting organizations such as the Global Mixx Music and Film Forum.”
Weekend Lineup
The conference will include performances, panel discussions, mentorship sessions and networking events geared toward independent artists, producers, filmmakers and entrepreneurs. Highlights include:
Thursday, Oct. 23: Emerging Artists Showcase presented by NEXT Showcase USA
Friday, Oct. 24: Entertainment Meets Policy brunch and the Game Changers VIP Awards honoring 14 leaders in entertainment and community
Saturday, Oct. 25: Panels on sync licensing, screenwriting, podcasting, streaming, social media influencers and an Actors’ Spotlight session
Additional Events: A speed mentoring session with more than 20 industry professionals and the MIXX Expo featuring small businesses and creative brands, along with the George’s Music Room pop-up.
Registration and details for the forum are available through Global Mixx organizers.
For more information and to view the full schedule, visit: https://www.globalmixx.org/
Global Mixx Music and Film Forum Marks 20 Years of Creative Leadership in Chicago
