ABOUT
The Chicago Music Industry Professionals (“CMIP”) is dedicated to creating meaningful access and opportunities for its members to connect with influential professionals across the gospel music industry. We serve as a hub where artists, creatives, and industry stakeholders can interface directly with established pacesetters through face-to-face meetings, digital engagement, and telephone interactions.
With an ongoing commitment to representing every gamut of the gospel music industry, we provide timely education and insight through workshops, panel discussions, and presentations led by respected industry influencers. As the music industry continues to evolve, our organization remains focused on equipping members with current knowledge, practical tools, and authentic relationships that support growth and longevity.
We proudly embrace all genres within gospel music, fostering a diverse, informed, and connected community.
HISTORY
The Chicago Music Industry Professionals (“CMIP”), the Chicago affiliate of the Gospel Industry Network (G.I.N.), was officially established on January 22, 2020. The organization was formally introduced to the Chicagoland music community on March 14, 2020, during a luncheon held at Christ Unity Evangelistic Church in Chicago, Illinois. The introduction was led by Elder Willie Jones, CEO and Founder, along with the organization’s officers.
At its inception, CMIP was guided by a dedicated founding Board of five members who were present to establish the vision, standards, and criteria for this Chicago-based organization. The founding Board included Jean Jennings, Financial Secretary; Gloria Bland, Executive Secretary; Elder Larry Stendson, Chaplin; Veronica Williams, Public Relations; and Elder Willie Jones, CEO and Founder.
As the organization continued to grow, additional leaders were appointed to strengthen its structure and reach. These included Rev. Dr. Yolanda Freeman, Dean of Academics; Howard Brown, Social Media Manager; Steward Stiles, Marketing & Strategies Manager; and Pastor Cynthia Eubanks, Artist and Vendor Relations. An Advisory Board was also formed, consisting of Marion Odom, Sheila Stokes, James Rice, Bill H. Brown, Pastor of Christ Unity Evangelistic Church, and Bishop Simon Gordon, Pastor of Triedstone Full Gospel Church of Chicago.
The foundation of CMIP began even earlier when Elder Willie Jones was invited to attend an official meeting of the Gospel Industry Network (G.I.N.) in October 2019. During that meeting, he was asked to lead the Chicago affiliate of G.I.N., a role he accepted without hesitation.
Today, CMIP, in collaboration with G.I.N., represents a diverse and comprehensive network of professionals across the gospel and broader music entertainment industries. Membership includes individuals and organizations involved in radio, television, public relations, business management, booking managers, promotion managers, songwriters, tour management and production, label ownership, film, theater, entertainment law, pastoral leadership, choir directors, and many other areas of industry influencers.
Mission
The Mission of Chicago Music Industry Professionals (“CMIP”) is to educate, connect, and empower music industry professionals by providing access to resources, relationships, and opportunities that foster growth, excellence, and sustainability within the Chicago and global music community. CMIP is committed to developing leaders in the music industry by delivering education, fostering collaboration, and providing direct access to industry influencers and professional resources.
Vision
- To be the premier hub in Chicago that empowers, educates, and connects music industry professionals, fostering excellence and innovation.
- To provide a lasting impact on industry professionals and build a respected and influential community that nurtures talent, develops leaders, and leaves a lasting legacy of excellence and impact.
- To transform Chicago into a recognized powerhouse for music industry leadership by developing informed, connected, and empowered professionals who drive positive change in the industry; and
- To create a thriving ecosystem where music industry professionals gain access to knowledge, relationships, and opportunities that elevate careers and shape the future of the music industry.