Get ready, because Melissa Ferrick is coming to NERFA! Known for being one of the most prolific, generous, and hardworking artists in the business, Ferrick is nothing short of legendary. After opening for Morrissey in both the U.S. and UK, Ferrick landed a deal with Atlantic Records at just 21 years old, dropping her debut and sophomore albums under their banner.
From 1996 to 1999, she cranked out three more albums with the indie label W.A.R. Records. Then, in 2000, Ferrick launched her own independent label, Right On Records, taking the reins of her musical destiny. Fast forward to the 2010s, when she published two more critically acclaimed records with NY-based MPress Records. Over the past twenty-five years, she’s unleashed a whopping seventeen albums, earning a ton of awards for her songwriting, production, and electrifying performances. She’s shared the stage with legends like Morrissey, Joan Armatrading, Weezer, Tegan and Sara, Bob Dylan, Ani DiFranco, k.d. lang, and many more.
But Melissa’s talents don’t stop there. As a Professor of the Practice at Northeastern University, she teaches the next generation of music business pros about everything from songwriting and demo production to the psychology of creativity. Before that, she spent six years shaping minds at Berklee College of Music. Oh, and did we mention she’s got an Ed.M from Harvard? Yeah, she’s that impressive.
Melissa also runs the Drive Music Agency (DMA), a booking agency and consulting company that’s all about empowering indie artists. DMA helps musicians with everything from publishing and royalties to touring and creative development, connecting like-minded creators with industry experts.
NERFA is beyond excited to have Melissa Ferrick sharing her wealth of knowledge and passion. Her keynote address promises to be nothing short of inspiring. Don’t miss out on hearing from one of contemporary music’s most influential figures!