FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Roy Elkins Elected President of Wisconsin Area Music Industry

Milwaukee, Wisconsin – November 4, 2024 – The Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) is pleased to announce Roy Elkins as its new president.Elkins, founder and CEO of Broadjam, Inc. (a leading online music platform), takes over for Jason Klagstad, who served as WAMI president for the past two years.

Roy Elkins is a music industry trailblazer with an extensive background in synthesizer technology (Ensoniq) and software development (Sonic Foundry). In 1999, he founded Broadjam, a pioneering online platform for independent musicians reaching artists in over 190 countries.  He currently serves as president of both the Madison Area Music Association (MAMA) and the Wisconsin Area Music Industry(WAMI). His clients include well-known artists and industry giants like the Academy of Country Music, NAMM, Warner Chappell, and CRB. A musician and songwriter himself, Roy deeply understands and passionately engages with the world of music.

“I am thrilled to join the WAMIs and contribute to the progress the organization has made in recent years. It’s an honor to help maintain this momentum and continue to enrich our collective efforts in the world of music,” says Elkins.

Elkins has spent his entire career in the music industry and brings a wealth of experience to his role as WAMI president. In addition to his work with Broadjam, he has served on the boards of several music industry organizations, including the MIDI Association, MATC Music School, and the Madison Area Music Association. His clients include organizations such as the Academy of Country Music, NAMM, and Warner Music.

Klagstad, who is stepping down to focus on other business ventures, expressed confidence in Elkins’ leadership.

“As I hand over the baton to Roy, who I’ve known for25 years, I’m reminded that like a good song, our harmonious journey together will carry us into this next exciting chapter.”

During Klagstad’s tenure as president, WAMI underwent a significant revitalization. He oversaw the launch of several new initiatives and strengthened WAMI’s relationships with other music industry organizations.

Elkins plans to continue Klagstad’s work in revitalizing WAMI, focusing on increasing membership and expanding WAMI’s reach across the state and beyond.

“Coming from the Madison area, I will prioritize statewide outreach and inclusion as Wisconsin is overflowing with talent and rich musical resources that merit wider recognition and celebration,” said Elkins. “We will continue ensuring that our board actively promotes the vast array of gifted individuals, businesses, and venues while building our charitable ventures, such as the WAMI scholarship program.”

 

About WAMI

The Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the Wisconsin music industry. WAMI provides a variety of programs and services to its members, including educational workshops, networking events, and music awards.

 

Media Contact:

Carrie Zylka – CTO – carrie@wami.org