NYC Popfest

Photo: Courtney Bennett on Flickr

Revived from its original 1990s incarnation, this international independent pop music festival celebrated the “indiepop” genre, rekindling a major unifying event in the NYC music scene. The five-day festival featured more than 40 bands across eight venues in Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Key Contributions

  • Booked all shows and served as the main point of contact for venue talent buyers and event production coordinators, ensuring smooth logistics for each performance.
  • Established committees, defined committee head roles, and developed the overall project plan and schedule to streamline festival operations.
  • Collaborated closely with the co-organizer on all financial aspects, including budgeting, venue payouts, marketing, merchandise expenses, and coordinating band payments, transportation, and lodging.
  • Acted as the primary liaison for bands, coordinating gear requests and organizing shared backline elements to meet performers’ technical needs.

Project Team

  • Tami Heaton, Kardyhm Kelly:  Founders
  • Michael Murphy, Courtney Bennett, Maxwell Williams, Marisha Chinsky: Planners
  • Kardhym Kelly: Financial management
  • Tami Heaton: Booking and backline
  • Courtney Bennett, Michael Murphy: Fundraising and merch
  • Maxwell Williams: Sponsorship

Photos