GIPA Celebrates IP and Music Day!

This April 26th GIPA joins in celebrating WIPO’s World IP Day, this year focused on IP and Music.  We’re excited to have Mala Sharma share with us Georgia’s role in shaping the global music movement.  Marla is the President of Georgia Music Partners, and a founding member of the Entertainment, Arts and Sports committee with GIPA; she now serves as a board member of the USIPA.   

Built on Legacy, Driven by Innovation: Georgia’s Role in Shaping Global Music

Georgia’s music history is nothing short of iconic — from Ma Rainey and James Brown to the Allman Brothers, R.E.M., Outkast and Gladys Knight.  Our state has been home to groundbreaking music across genres, and that legacy continues to shape our identity today.

 This rich foundation has created a springboard for a new generation of artists, producers, and entrepreneurs. 

• Acts like Avery Sunshine, Faye Webster, and Latto draw on Georgia’s deep-rooted musical DNA while forging their creative paths. Indie labels like  Love Renaissance (LVRN) have proven that you don’t need to leave Georgia to build national success.

• Producers like Metro Boomin and Lil Ronnie are defining the sound of modern hip hop and R&B from right here in the state.

• Our history teaches us that staying true to your voice, building community, and creating space for innovation are key to sustaining creativity moving forward.

Across the state, communities are stepping up to strengthen Georgia’s music ecosystem. From the Savannah Music Commission’s cultural planning to “Music in Macon: Where Soul Lives,” to grassroots efforts in Columbus, Augusta, and beyond, local leaders are recognizing music as both an economic driver and cultural cornerstone. Georgia’s music industry is responsible for over $5 billion in annual economic impact and supports over 40,000 jobs, making it one of the state’s most influential creative sectors.

 At the same time, Georgia is emerging as a leader in intellectual property rights awareness and education. Understanding how IP impacts artists — from their songs and voice to their brand and image — is more critical than ever, especially in a digital and AI-driven era. Advocates and organizations like Georgia Music Partners are working to ensure that creators are protected, educated, and empowered to maintain ownership over their work. This focus on both community and creator rights positions Georgia not just as a birthplace of talent, but as a champion for the future of music.

 #GeorgiaMusic #CreativeEconomy #MusicisIP #GIPACreativeEconomy #SavannahMusic. #MaconMusic #ColumbusMusic #MusicMatters