Folk Alliance International (FAI), Live Music Society (LMS), and D-Tour are collaborating to bring the One Night Live touring initiative to the 2027 FAI conference in Chicago. The initiative targets one of the most pressing issues in the modern music industry: the rising cost of live touring.
The partnership will provide logistical and financial support to select FAI Conference Official Showcase Artists, helping them route sustainable tours. By coordinating five-show runs at intimate, independent venues leading up to the Chicago event, the program ensures that artists aren't just performing at a conference, but building a fan base and professional network along the way.
The 38th Annual Folk Alliance International Conference will be held January 27 - 31, 2027 in Chicago, IL.
Highlights Of The Touring Partnership
- Financial & Logistical Support: Selected Official Showcase Artists receive direct help to make their tours to the conference sustainable.
- Strengthening Local Ecosystems: Each tour stop will feature local opening bands, fostering community exchange and regional networking.
- Independent Venue Focus: The tours utilize the D-Tour network of independent promoters and Live Music Society supported listening rooms.
A New Model for Touring
Launched in 2025, the One Night Live program was created by the Live Music Society to highlight the vital role small venues play in career development. To date, the initiative has completed four successful runs, with more planned for 2026. This new alignment with FAI—the world’s largest gathering of the folk music community—scales that impact significantly.
How Artists Can Apply
Applications are now open for all Official Showcase Artists for FAI 2027 through June 8, 2026. After official showcase artists are chosen, Folk Alliance will curate the tours in collaboration with Live Music Society and D-Tour.
- Apply Here: folk.org/conference/official-showcases
