Sir Lucian Grainge’s 2017 Artist Showcase gave industry insiders highly coveted front row seats to performances by Universal Music Group’s premier established and breaking talent. Before the private show, talent mingled in the Music Is Universal Lounge at Ace Hotel, where they experienced activations by Citi (supporting Musicians On Call), American Airlines (supporting Stand Up 2 Cancer) and Make Up For Ever. Kicking off the showcase, Jessie J joined world renowned pianist Lang Lang for a special rendition of Prince’s Purple Rain. Sir Lucian Grainge congratulated Big Sean for his new album, I Decided, which just hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200, before he took the stage to perform Moves and Bounce Back. Machine Gun Kelly was joined by Pia Mia to perform the hit song, Bad Things.

Katy Perry made a surprise appearance and was honored for her 10 extraordinary years with Capitol Records. Katy spoke about how she struggled for years as an artist before UMG and Capitol Records believed in her vision and supported her in becoming who she is today. Universal Music Group made an exciting announcement about the relaunch of their film division, Polygram Entertainment, which will excellerate their film and television stragegy. Polygram Entertainment will be releasing two new feature length documentary films: The Story of Motown, about the history and cultural impact of the iconic record label, and Mystify, which follows the extraordinary life and career of INXS’ Michael Hutchence. 1