Estonian music industry pioneer Jüri Makarov, recipient of this year's Outstanding Contribution Award at the Estonian Music Industry Awards, will share his remarkable story at the TMW conference. In conversation with Finnish music luminary Tapio Korjus, Makarov will reflect on organising Rock Summer festival (1988-1997) – the first event of its magnitude in the Soviet Union that featured international acts like Public Image Ltd., ZZ Top, Iggy Pop, The Jesus and Mary Chain, and hundreds more.
This wasn't just a festival; it was a cultural rebellion with amplifiers turned up to eleven, helping Estonia rock its way to freedom while launching an entire industry sector. Beyond Rock Summer, Makarov's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish the Piraat nightclub, FM TOP Radio, Tipp TV, and music magazine Kuum, fundamentally transforming Estonia's cultural landscape. In 2003, the International Live Music Conference (ILMC) recognised him with the Best Promoter award.
Expect fascinating anecdotes alongside candid reflections on the dizzying peaks and treacherous valleys of the music business, including his metamorphosis into a sheep farmer in Southeast Estonia.
Interviewer Tapio Korjus brings over five decades of experience as founder of Rockadillo Group and has been instrumental in shaping the Nordic music scene since launching Suomi-Pop in 1971. He is also Makarov's long-time colleague who helped foster connections within Estonia's emerging music industry.
Interviewer: Tapio Korjus, Founder & CEO of Rockadillo Group