The Long Game: Artist Development, Community, & Career Sustainability
The music industry often celebrates breakthroughs, viral moments, and success stories; but what does it actually take to build a sustainable career over the long term?
Join Prosper XO for an evening exploring artist development, community, career sustainability, building a business, and the support systems that help artists grow, evolve, and thrive.
From artist management and record labels to nonprofit support and community infrastructure, we'll discuss the realities of building a lasting career in music, the challenges artists face along the way, and what it takes to create an ecosystem where artists can succeed not just for a moment; but for a lifetime.
Whether you're an artist, manager, entrepreneur, student, industry professional, or passionate supporter of the arts, this conversation is for you.
📅 Wednesday, July 8th | 6–8:30 PM
This event is free and open to the public.
Featuring:
Justin Weems
Founder, FSG | FSG Records
Justin Weems is a founder of FSG, a Texas-based apparel brand, community, and creative movement that has grown into a platform supporting artists, culture, and independent expression. He is also a founder of FSG Records, where he works to develop artists, build sustainable careers, and create opportunities that extend beyond traditional industry models. Through both FSG and FSG Records, Justin has helped cultivate a community-driven approach to artist development rooted in authenticity, creativity, and long-term growth.
Aaron McDonnell
Co-Owner, FSG Records | Artist
Aaron McDonnell is a longtime performing artist, songwriter, and co-owner of FSG Records whose career has been rooted in both creative expression and artist development. Having spent years navigating the realities of being an independent artist, Aaron brings firsthand experience with the challenges and opportunities artists face while building sustainable careers. Through his work as both a recording artist and label owner, he is passionate about helping artists grow, develop their craft, and build meaningful, long-term careers in music.
Jazz Mills
CEO, Free Lunch | Artist Manager | Artist
Jazz Mills is the CEO of Free Lunch, artist manager, and longtime performing artist whose career has given her firsthand experience navigating the realities of the music industry from multiple perspectives. Through her work as both an artist and advocate, she understands the challenges creatives face while building sustainable careers. Today, she works to support artists through management, community-building, education, and the creation of opportunities that help artists thrive both creatively and professionally.
Hosted by:
Lauren Bruno & Prosper XO
Prosper XO is an artist-first ethical technology company and education + cultural initiative focused on artist sustainability, creative autonomy, ownership, and community building. Through monthly Town Halls, Prosper XO brings together artists, industry leaders, educators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and community members to explore the future of creativity, culture, and artist prosperity.
At Prosper XO, we believe artists are essential cultural partners. We believe value created by the creative community should help strengthen the creative community. And we believe that when artists have access to the support, resources, opportunities, and relationships they need to thrive, entire communities benefit.
Expect networking, meaningful conversation, new connections, and a room full of people passionate about building a stronger future for artists.
Because success isn't built overnight.
And when artists prosper, culture thrives.
Logistical Details
Parking Discount: Park in the Omni Hotel garage below Capital Factory and pick up a voucher at the event for a reduced $8 fee.
Location: ACL Room – 16th Floor, Capital Factory
701 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
Special Thanks
Thank you to Station Austin for sponsoring Prosper XO. Station Austin is the center of gravity for entrepreneurs in Texas, connecting founders with investors, mentors, employees, and customers.
Thank you to Free Lunch for their partnership and continued commitment to supporting artists and creative communities.
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