Tonic Music take part on panels

Read all about when Tonic Music participated on three mental health in music panels in November.

Tonic Music were delighted to speak on panels discussions at three major UK music industry conferences this past month: we DJ Expo in London, Live Vibe Music Festival & Conference in Birmingham, and Un-Convention in Manchester. These events brought together music and mental health professionals to discuss the pressing issues around mental health in music.

Here is a brief summary of these great events, where our Programmes Lead, Jeordie Shenton, participated on each of the panels:

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we DJ Expo (London)

At we DJ, the panel 'Mental Health and the Music Industry' focused on the unique challenges faced by DJs and producers. We highlighted the importance of a preventative approach to mental health, noting that many young DJs are already navigating the pressures of the industry with isolation and burnout being a particular concern on the dance / electronic music scene, due to solo work and late-night performances. The discussion underscored the value of youth music projects and the free mental health training provided by Tonic Music to staff working with young artists.

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Live Vibe Music Festival & Conference (Birmingham)

The Live Vibe panel, 'Mind Over Music: Protecting Your Mental Health in the Music Industry', took a practitioner approach, with contributions from psychotherapists and support organisations. On this panel we emphasised the necessity for music professionals to be aware of the mental health charities operating within the industry - importantly, also reminding attendees that for many, music is not just a job but a core part of their identity. This distinction is crucial when designing support systems that respect both the occupational and personal significance of music. The event also saw Tonic Music donate clothing to those affected by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica - a kind gesture by the conference organisers and glad we could contribute.

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Un-Convention (Manchester)

At Un-Convention, the panel 'Mental Health in Music 2025' explored emerging trends, including AI-powered support tools and the implications of new mental health legislation. We put forward the case for tailored mental health support accessible to all music professionals, regardless of role, genre, or income. In addition, we were also vocal in criticising economic-based eligibility criteria - such as requiring 40% of income from music - as being exclusionary and detrimental to wellbeing. The discussion also referenced high-profile cases of musicians cancelling tours due to their mental health, noting that while established artists can afford to cancel shows for mental health reasons, grassroots musicians typically do not possess any financial safety net and have no option to cancel gigs.

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Three very different events but with a common purpose of improving the well-being of those involved in Music. Great to be able to help amplify key issues alongside peers and express the views of Tonic Music and our approach to a wide audience.