As the music business has changed and been buffeted by the digital media evolution, it has had to change its focus from using touring as a loss leader to sell recordings and instead, use recordings sold as digital downloads to sell the live performance experience.

As a result, Billboard Magazine's Touring Conference & Awards has become an even more important forum to discuss issues about delivering the live experience to audiences worldwide. Taking place from November 7th - 8th, 2012, at the Roosevelt Hotel (East 45th St. at Madision Av. near Grand Central Station) the event including panels, a cocktail party and keynote interviews with major players.

The Billboard Touring Conference features unique programming that informs, educates and provides a forum for:

The conference addresses the industry’s latest opportunities and current challenges through such events as the following:

Harlem's Apollo Theater to Receive the Humanitarian Award

Harlem's iconic landmark will receive the 2012 Humanitarian Award -- making it the first venue to receive the honor. This award recognizes the philanthropic efforts of a music industry entity, and the Apollo's not-for-profit organization, Apollo Theater Foundation, Inc., will be acknowledged for honoring the influence and advancing the contributions of African-American artists while recognizing emerging voices across cultures and artistic media.

"As the cornerstone of Harlem, and as one of its most distinguished and enduring community resources, our mission extends beyond music. We are committed to enhancing the life of our community and to fulfilling our role as a beacon of excellence in Harlem," said Jonelle Procope, President and CEO of the Apollo Theater. "The Apollo Theater and Billboard share a history of playing a tremendous role in shaping American music. That shared history makes accepting this award for community work a notable honor."

Neil Diamond Being Honored as 'Legend of Live' at 2012 Billboard Touring Awards

The legendary singer/songwriter will receive its prestigious Legend of Live Award. Billboard's highest accolade in the touring space, the Legend of Live Award, honors individuals or bands who have made significant and lasting contributions to live music and the touring business. Beyond success at the box office, the Legend of Live Award recognizes professionalism and steadfast commitment to the art and craft of live performance and the fan experience at concerts.

"There is no musical expression that quite compares with that of presenting your work to a live audience," Diamond said. "It is the kind of experience that can both exhilarate and humble you at the same time. I'm honored to receive Billboard's Legend of Live Award, and to have had the opportunity to perform live to audiences all over the world for the past 45 years. For me, there is no higher musical calling."

Artist Development Case Study with Team Holly Williams

Team Holly discuss how they will connect the dots between Williams’ family legacy, her unique songwriting and singing talent, her potential as a lifestyle magnet through her food and fashion endeavors, her business acumen in founding the H Audrey clothing boutique, and the set-up and support of the new record The Highway. It all starts with a plan, and we’ll hear the groundbreaking Holly Williams plan on this session.

New Partners and Strategies in the Live Music Space

Featuring investors and entrepreneurs who are bringing capital and ideas to the live entertainment business—or considering it. Speakers include: Mark Cuban, Todd Boehly, Charles J. Johnson, Rick Stevens, Charlie Walker and Jordan Zachary.

The 2011 Billboard Touring Conference & Awards was the most successful in the history of the conference and plans are under way to make the 2012 Billboard Touring Conference an even more powerful and multi-faceted event.