PRS at NAMM 2025 Wrap-Up!

PRS just returned from our annual pilgrimage to Anaheim, California for the 2025 NAMM Show! NAMM, short for “The National Association of Music Merchants” is a music industry trade show that was inaugurated in 1901.

The show exists to support the music industry and show the world the latest innovations in musical products, recording technology, sound, and lighting. The NAMM show sees tens of thousands of attendees gather for a few days of business and music-filled fun.

Keep reading to see what PRS was up to at this year’s show!

Outside of NAMM itself, we hosted a special private 40th Anniversary Celebration with our music industry friends and family at the House of Blues! It was a night full of performances from the likes of John Mayer and Mark Lettieri, to David Girssom, and many more. Take a look at some of the scenes from the night, along with just one of many memorable performances, linked below.

Watch as John Mayer and the Mark Lettieri Group perform "Vultures" in the video below, along with a special tribute to close out the night!

This year, a few PRS employees we’re honored to be able to share their knowledge with the music industry community through a series of panels.

Moderated by industry veteran and producer of the She Rocks Awards, Laura Whitmore, this discussion centered around how brands are breaking barriers, creating initiatives, and expanding opportunities to bring more women into the guitar world. Our very own Director of Artist and Community Relations Bev Fowler, was on the panel, joined by other industry leaders.

This panel held a strong focus on the growing importance of sustainability in business operations and its impact on consumer preferences. PRS Director of Supply Chain Meghan Efland was among several other industry experts sharing best practices for integrating eco-friendly initiatives into the music business. Topics ranged from sourcing materials and reducing waste to implementing energy-efficient processes. The group discussed how these efforts can enhance brand loyalty, attract environmentally conscious consumers, and drive long-term profitability.

At the very same trade show that helped Paul launch his business in 1985, Paul Reed Smith delivered an engaging discussion about his journey making guitars for the past 40 years. Paul shared stories from the PRS archives, discussed plans for the future, and took questions from the audience.

Endorsement relationships between artists and brands are constantly evolving. What do brands look for with the artists they partner with? How can an artist strengthen the relationships he or she already has? What should an artist ask for in return for support?

To answer these challenging questions, PRS Director of Artist and Community Relations Bev Fowler was joined by PRS artist Tim Pierce and Mark Letteri as well as other industry experts to discuss how brands and artists can form a mutually beneficial partnership.

The SE Custom 24 was named the 2024 Electric Guitar of the Year in the MMR Dealer's Choice Awards, a hotly contested category! The SE Custom 24 was lauded for its sleek design, versatile tone, and renowned playability – capturing the attention of guitarists at all levels and at an accessible price point.

The She Rocks Awards are a high energy gala honoring women in music from top performers to industry insiders. The event is intended to promote networking between inspiring women from all walks of the industry. This year, PRS Artist Shantaia had the honor of performing as the She Rocks opening act!

You can watch her performance here!

While PRS didn't have a public booth this year, PRS gear was around the NAMM show in the hands of some of our industry friends and partners like the Stompbox Exhibit and Levy's straps!

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