O ne of my favorite parts of NAMM show conversations is hear- ing other people’s “show count.” Often worn like a badge of honor, longtime NAMM attendees will gleefully tell you the number of NAMMs they’ve attended: “This is my 25th show,” or “I’ve been coming for the last 40 years.” Despite The 2025 NAMM Show “only” being my 15th show, I have a pretty good gist of what a traditional NAMM show experience looks, sounds and feels like. And the 2025 show was it. Shoulder-to-shoulder Friday traf- fic in the aisles of the convention center, big-name artists like Jon Batiste, PERSPECTIVE I BY KATIE KAILUS ONE FOR THE BOOKS
John Mayer and Jack White performing at NAMM events, an influx in brands dis- playing, and even the reopening of Hall E all made January’s event channel classic NAMM show vibes. This month’s issue is dedicated to that show. The biggest news (which starts on page 36), the latest market trends and gear (beginning on page 42) and full Best in Show coverage (page 66) are all highlighted in this month’s issue. We’ve also included a slew of reflections from attendees. Retailers shared their biggest takeaways in this month’s Ask the Retailer (page 74), while others shared their thoughts in the form of letters to the editor (page 10). In fact, we received so much response
on The 2025 NAMM Show, that we couldn’t run it all. One of those reflections came from Erik Uslan, senior seller engagement manager for Reverb, who said this year’s show allowed him and his team to deepen relationships. “NAMM allows close-knit virtual relationships to evolve into face-to-face friendships in a space where we are all invested in the growth and health of our industry,” Uslan said. “Whether independent brick-and-mortar stores or large-scale retailers, we are all looking for ways to grow our industry. The energy, passion and innovation on display at NAMM were unmatched, and it’s inspiring to witness firsthand how the industry continues to adapt and thrive.” Thomas Ripsam, Martin Guitar president and CEO, shared with us posi- tive sentiments about the show’s traffic. “Our Martin booth was busy throughout, and attendance for our new Martin Acoustic Guitar Stage events were great, too,” Ripsam said. “My colleagues and I connected with many Martin players, partners, artists and influencers and made some new connections. It will be important for all key industry players to be [a] visible and active part of the show going forward.” There’s no doubt attending and exhibiting at The NAMM Show is a heavy lift for both retailers and suppliers financially and time-wise. However, there’s something to be said about uniting as one industry with one sole purpose: creating a better music-making experience. Because, buzzy concerts and networking parties aside, that’s what The NAMM Show is all about. MI
8 I MUSIC INC. I APRIL 2025
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