ESNS Groningen: Where Europe Comes to Discover What's Next

Every January, Groningen becomes the crossroads of European music during Eurosonic Noorderslag (ESNS) where new artists are discovered by the people shaping the industry. It's not just about playing shows, but about turning that first wave of attention into long-term momentum across borders.

For a few days, the city transforms into a tightly packed music ecosystem. Showcases happen across dozens of venues, while the daytime conference at De Oosterpoort brings together artists, bookers, labels, radio, sync teams, and platforms from all over Europe. Everything is walkable, everything overlaps. Panels turn into coffee chats, which turn into late-night conversations at showcases.

ESNS has a reputation for spotting artists right before they break internationally. That's because the people in the room aren't just fans, they're decision-makers. And when momentum starts building this fast, the business side of music suddenly matters a lot more.

3 ESNS Conference Sessions Artists Shouldn't Skip

1. Beyond Streaming: Building Fairer Digital Futures for Artists

When and where: VR 16 Jan - 16:30 - 17:30 - Oosterpoort - Bovenzaal 1
Info: https://esns.nl/en/conference/panels/building-fairer-digital-futures-for-artists/

This panel looks beyond playlists and algorithms, focusing on how artists can build healthier income models in a digital ecosystem that's still evolving.

2. Who Owns What? Mapping Music Ownership in Europe

When and where: THU 15 Jan - 10:30 - 11:30 - Oosterpoort - Marathonzaal Info: https://esns.nl/en/conference/panels/mapping-dominant-ownership/

A practical breakdown of ownership, splits, and rights across European borders.

3. Speed Meeting: Meet the Music Supervisors

When and where: DO 16 Jan - 15:00 - 16:00 - Oosterpoort - Grote zaal
Info: https://esns.nl/en/conference/panels/meet-the-music-supervisors/

Short one-on-one meetings with sync professionals working in film, TV, advertising, and online media.

We'll Be Around in Groningen

RevSplit is based in Groningen, so of course, we'll be present throughout ESNS week. If you want to talk royalties, ownership, metadata, or just exchange notes between showcases, get in touch with Janyk- our founder.

Have an amazing Noorderslag!