October 21 – 24, 2025

Chris Barton to Speak at The DEN Summit in Edmonton (October 21-24)

The countdown to The DEN Summit in Edmonton has begun, and the excitement continues to build! One of the event’s major highlights is the opportunity to hear from some of the world’s most innovative minds in business. We are thrilled to announce that Chris Barton, the founder and former CEO of Shazam, will be speaking at this year’s summit, taking place from October 21 to October 24 at the Edmonton Convention Centre.

Who Is Chris Barton?

Chris Barton is best known as the visionary founder of Shazam, the music discovery app that changed the way people interact with and enjoy music. Shazam was one of the first apps ever to be created, and under Barton’s leadership, it grew into a globally recognized brand that paved the way for many of today’s tech innovations. After leading Shazam through its early stages and seeing it become an indispensable tool for hundreds of millions of users worldwide, Barton played a key role in its acquisition by Apple for $400 million in 2018.

Barton’s success story doesn’t end there. Today, he is a well-known innovation and tech expert, advising companies on how to innovate, think creatively, and turn ideas into groundbreaking products. As a keynote speaker, he inspires entrepreneurs and business leaders by sharing his journey of launching Shazam and lessons on persistence, resilience, and innovation in the face of uncertainty.

What You’ll Learn from Chris Barton at The DEN Summit

Chris Barton’s keynote at The DEN Summit will focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and perseverance—three critical pillars for any business professional looking to stay ahead in a fast-evolving marketplace. Here’s a sneak peek of what you can expect:

1. Turning Ideas into Reality

The story of Shazam is one of vision and determination. Barton will share his journey of taking an idea—one that many thought was impossible—and turning it into a billion-dollar success. He’ll walk attendees through how he and his team developed the world’s first music recognition technology, long before smartphones and apps were a reality. Learn from his creative problem-solving approach, which is essential for any entrepreneur or innovator facing today’s market challenges.

2. Embracing Disruption

Shazam disrupted the music industry in ways no one expected. Barton will discuss the importance of embracing disruption rather than fearing it. In a world where technology is rapidly transforming industries, Barton’s insights into how businesses can thrive amid disruption will be invaluable. Whether you’re launching a startup or managing an established company, his talk will offer fresh ideas on how to adapt and innovate to remain competitive.

3. The Power of Perseverance

Launching and scaling Shazam wasn’t easy. Barton will share the ups and downs of his journey and explain how perseverance was the key to overcoming obstacles. He’ll reveal how he stayed committed to his vision, even when many doubted the feasibility of the idea. His story serves as a powerful reminder that resilience and the willingness to push through challenges are often the difference-makers between success and failure.

4. The Future of Innovation

As an advisor to many companies and startups, Barton has a front-row seat to the latest trends in technology and innovation. His keynote will offer a look at what’s next for tech-driven industries, how companies can stay at the forefront of innovation, and how to harness the power of creativity to build the products and services of the future.

Chris Barton will be a keynote speaker at The DEN Summit

Why You Can’t Miss Chris Barton’s Keynote

Chris Barton’s story isn’t just about building an app; it’s about building a legacy of innovation. His keynote will inspire you to think bigger, challenge conventional wisdom, and approach business with a bold, creative mindset. Here are a few reasons why Barton’s session at The DEN Summit is a must-attend:

  • Learn from a Tech Pioneer: Barton’s work with Shazam forever changed the way people discover music, and his experience offers valuable lessons on how technology can revolutionize industries.
  • Gain Insights into Innovation: Whether you’re an entrepreneur or part of a corporate team, Barton’s talk will provide you with practical strategies for fostering a culture of innovation within your organization.
  • Inspiration for Entrepreneurs: If you have a big idea but aren’t sure how to turn it into a reality, Barton’s story of building Shazam against all odds will give you the motivation and guidance you need.
  • Exclusive Tips for Staying Ahead: Barton’s view on the future of tech and business will help you anticipate trends and position your company or career for long-term success.

About The DEN Summit

The DEN Summit, running from October 21 to October 24 2025 at the Edmonton Convention Centre, is designed to bring together forward-thinking entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders from across industries. With a mix of keynote speakers, networking sessions, workshops, and panel discussions, it’s the perfect place to connect, learn, and grow.

In addition to Chris Barton, The DEN Summit will feature other high-profile speakers, including Erica Dhawan, as well as a diverse array of sessions focusing on innovation, leadership, and business development.

Final Thoughts

If you’re attending The DEN Summit, don’t miss the chance to hear Chris Barton’s fascinating story and insightful advice. His experience of building Shazam from the ground up, paired with his expertise in innovation and perseverance, will leave you with valuable takeaways that you can apply to your own business or career.

Get your tickets now and join us at The DEN Summit for an unforgettable keynote from one of the world’s top innovators!

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