Dr. Richard James Burgess is stepping down as President and CEO of The American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) at the beginning of 2026 after ten years.
The organization said that Burgess has been “instrumental in advancing the interests of independent music”, and has left “an indelible mark” on the org and the broader music industry.
He announced the news at the organization’s Annual General Meeting during A2IM Indie Week.
A2IM said that Burgess has “overseen a period of significant growth and innovation” for the org during his tenure, “cementing its reputation as a powerful advocate for independent music”.
The Board of Directors said that it has initiated a search for his successor.
According to A2IM, under Dr. Burgess’s leadership, the body’s membership has grown to more than 750 member companies.
A2IM has also highlighted Burgess’s advocacy and policy work during his tenure, noting that he “ensured the independent voice was at the table in all conversations on Capitol Hill that might affect the independents by hiring a DC-based lobbying firm, collaborating with other trade associations on policy and advocacy initiatives that aligned with A2IM members’ interests, and by personally participating in a multitude of other advocacy efforts”.
Elsewhere, during Burgess’s tenure, A2IM said that the organization “prioritized diversity and inclusion within the industry, launching initiatives to support underrepresented communities and setting an example by gender balancing and diversifying its staff, board, and events (front and back of house)”.
A2IM also introduced a healthcare plan offering for its member companies, their employees, contractors, and artists during his tenure, and expanded A2IM Indie Week “from a single-room event to a premier international conference for the independent music industry”.
A2IM says it was founded in 2005 “in response to the digital disruption of the music industry, seeking economic parity and market equivalency, and as an advocacy platform addressing the concerns, challenges, and advantages that an amalgamated yet exceptionally diverse independent sector represented”.
“As A2IM approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, I am filled with immense pride for our collective achievements and honored to have been the longest-serving head of A2IM to date.
Dr. Richard James Burgess
“As A2IM approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, I am filled with immense pride for our collective achievements and honored to have been the longest-serving head of A2IM to date,” said Burgess.
“Leading this exceptional organization has been an extraordinary experience. I am profoundly grateful for the support and dedication of our board members, the invaluable work of our founding members and prior presidents who set up the organization to succeed, and the unwavering commitment of our many members. Our success is a testament to the hard work and passion of the many team members I’ve had the pleasure to work alongside.
“Thank you for entrusting me with the well-being of your organization for all these years. I am confident that the future holds great promise for our independent community, and I look forward to celebrating our continued growth and accomplishments a decade from now.”Music Business Worldwide