About

Portrait of Josh Rowe

Josh Rowe

Founder, Dead Wax

With more than two decades at the intersection of brand partnerships, media, and live music, Josh has shaped strategy and execution at Dayglo Presents, Hype Machine, BuzzMedia, and PureVolume.

He has created immersive experiences for brands including Mazda, Marshall, Harley-Davidson, Taco Bell, Fender, Diageo, and HP, at events like Hype Hotel, Brooklyn Bowl Family Reunion, The Lab @ Panorama, and PureVolume House, and at major festivals including SXSW, NAMM, Panorama, LEVITATION, and NOLA JazzFest. His activations enhance the consumer experience rather than disrupt it.

Josh pioneered the multiday “house” event concept now common at music festivals. Putting the experience first, and building authentic relationships among sponsors, brands, and attendees, runs through all of it. His unconventional yet strategic approach blends brand storytelling with unforgettable live experiences.

Experience

Past and present positions.

2025 to Present

Dead Wax

Founder / Owner

2026

MODE Festival

Director of MODE Programming

2024 to 2026

PHNTM Agency

Growth Consultant

2022 to 2024

Ad.Ventures

Chief Creative Officer

2017 to 2022

Dayglo Presents & Relix Media Group

Vice President, Partnerships & Events

2016 to 2017

METAx

Vice President, Experiences

2011 to 2016

Hype Machine

Head of Business Development & Partnerships

2010 to 2011

BuzzMedia

Director of Music Initiatives & BUZZMEDIA Live

2004 to 2010

PureVolume

Marketing Director, Artists & Label Relations

Let's talk

Planning an activation, looking for sponsors, or building a program? Send a note.

josh@deadwax.co