On March 29, 2025, two of our very own, Coach Ray and Coach Peaches, were honored to attend the MICC 2025 Conference hosted by Arizona State University’s Popular Music Department at the Fusion on First Building in downtown Phoenix.
🎶 MICC (Music Industry Career Connect) is more than a conference — it's a dynamic space for artists, educators, students, and industry leaders to engage in powerful dialogue, education, and collaboration. With panels, performances, and workshops designed to connect community and creativity, it aligns perfectly with our purpose here At The Outlet.
💥 Keynote Energy: Timbaland Sets the Tone
The highlight of the day was an unforgettable keynote conversation with Grammy-winning music mogul Timbaland, interviewed by Tuo Clark, 9x Grammy-nominated producer and music executive. Timbaland's legacy spans decades — producing for icons like Missy Elliott, Aaliyah, Jay-Z, The Neptunes, Jodeci, Pharrell, and more.
His candid conversation was engaging, inspiring, and energizing — touching on the future of music, embracing innovation, and how to stay true to your creative identity in a constantly shifting industry. His message resonated deeply with us as we continue to build platforms for young creatives to express their voice and find their path.
🌱 A Gifted Opportunity & True Community Connection
Our attendance was made possible through a generous invitation from Samuel Peña, Assistant Director of Popular Music and Clinical Assistant Professor at ASU’s School of Music, Dance, and Theatre. Samuel is not only a talented Mexican American music producer and percussionist, but also a champion for community-based music education.
As the founder of AZ Beat Lab, Samuel is committed to offering youth-centered, culturally relevant music production opportunities, especially for BIPOC youth who historically haven’t had access to these creative spaces. His heart for the community and belief in music as a tool for connection, healing, and empowerment mirrors our mission at ATO.
Coach Monte and Coach Lay first crossed paths with Samuel through DJing at ASU’s Herberger Institute Day (HIDA) — a beautiful collision of creativity and collaboration that brought together artists, educators, and dreamers of all disciplines.
✨ Inspiration Around Every Corner
In addition to the keynote, we:
Toured the Fusion on First creative space
Listened to an uplifting set by the Pilgrim Rest Gospel Choir at the Civic Space Center
Connected with fellow creatives and students who were overwhelmingly welcoming and eager to collaborate
We left feeling fueled, inspired, and fully charged, with new connections and a vision for how At The Outlet can continue to plug into the powerful work happening across Arizona’s music and arts communities.
🎧 MICC After Party Vibes
Coach Lay, Coach Sha, Coach Ray, and Coach Nay wrapped up the night with style and soul at the MICC After Party: Presented by TIDAL and om*, hosted at the Stadium Bar and Lounge.
They vibed out to a dope set by Rua Young, an ASU senior student and rising musical force, surrounded by a community that radiated artistry, creativity, and joy.
🎉 About MICC & HIDA
Both the MICC Conference and Herberger Institute Day (HIDA) are a testament to ASU’s commitment to fostering a creative city — home to over 8,000 artists, designers, scholars, and innovators. These events celebrate exploration, dialogue, and community — values that run deep in our work at ATO.
We’re grateful to have been part of these spaces and look forward to continuing our collaboration with ASU creatives to empower youth through music, movement, and mentorship.
🔌 Stay tuned for more collaborations and moments of impact as we continue to spark creativity and power purpose — At The Outlet!
#MICC2025 #Timbaland #ASUPopMusic #PlugInWithPurpose #CreativeCharge #YouthEmpowerment #AtTheOutlet #PowerMoves #HerbergerInstituteDay
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