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Guitar Center Music Foundation Attends NAMM 2026
Guitar Center Music Foundation recently had the opportunity to attend NAMM — one of the most influential gatherings in the music industry — and it was an unforgettable few days filled with legendary performances, meaningful conversations, and powerful reminders of why we do what we do.
One of the standout moments of the week was attending the Bass Magazine Awards, where the stage came alive with performances from Khruangbin, Primus, Green Day, and other incredible artists. The energy in the room was electric.
Watching musicians of that caliber perform in an environment that celebrates craftsmanship and community was inspiring. These weren’t just concerts — they were celebrations of artistry, dedication, and the deep cultural impact of music.
Beyond the stage, we had the privilege of connecting with some of the very artists who continue to shape modern music. Meeting Mike Dirnt of Green Day, Pops Magellan, and many others gave us the opportunity to share the Foundation’s mission and hear firsthand how artists think about giving back and supporting the next generation. These conversations are always a powerful reminder that the most influential musicians never forget where they started.
On the NAMM show floor, we took the opportunity to go deeper. We interviewed key artists, including the legendary Marcus Miller, asking a simple but important question: “How do you support musicians?” We also flipped the conversation and asked others how people can better support them as working artists. The responses were thoughtful and honest.
Some spoke about mentorship. Others emphasized buying music, attending live shows, investing in instruments, or simply amplifying artists’ voices. Across the board, the message was clear — supporting musicians is about community, access, and intentional action.
NAMM also brought us full circle in a meaningful way. We attended the InMusic event featuring Jimmy Jam and Miles Bonham — leaders we had recently connected with during the 100BMeals recording at iHeartRadio.
Seeing those relationships continue to grow within different spaces of the industry reinforced something important: when purpose-driven leaders keep showing up, momentum builds. Conversations turn into collaborations. Introductions turn into impact.
Throughout the week, one theme kept surfacing — the importance of sustaining musicians at every level. From emerging artists walking the floor to Grammy-winning legends performing on stage, the ecosystem of music depends on support. Instruments, education, mentorship, opportunity — it all matters.
For Guitar Center Music Foundation, NAMM wasn’t just about attending events. It was about listening. Learning. Strengthening relationships. And continuing to advocate for greater access to music for communities who need it most.
Moments like the Bass Magazine Awards remind us why music moves us. Conversations with artists like Marcus Miller remind us why music education matters. And reconnecting with leaders like Jimmy Jam and Miles Bonham reminds us that when the industry aligns around service, real change is possible.
NAMM reinforced what we’ve always believed: supporting musicians isn’t a single action — it’s a shared responsibility. And when the music community comes together, the impact extends far beyond the stage