This piece was written and reported by Alondra Lopez, a member of GRAMMY U's Los Angeles chapter, and Nicole Lewis, a member of GRAMMY U’s Nashville chapter, ahead of the 2021 GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY Awards.

I flew into Vegas for my first-ever visit on the night of November 17. The MGM Grand lobby was buzzing with excitement ahead of the 2021 Latin GRAMMYs as I headed up to my room. Shortly after settling in, I received a text from Los Angeles GRAMMY U Representative Alondra Lopez, asking if I would be available for a meeting the next morning with L.A. Chapter Executive Director Qiana Conley, and a few of the nominees for an interview. Without hesitation, I said I would be there and immediately got to bed, anxious for the big day ahead.

This would later lead to a longer project covering three 20th Latin GRAMMY-nominated creators including Daniel Galindo and Maria Toledo and three 64th GRAMMY Award nominees, Autumn Rowe, Jeff "Gitty" Gitleman, and Dale Becker. Little did I know at the time of the Latin GRAMMYs, that I would be right back at the MGM Grand in April for the 2022 GRAMMYs.

In the morning, the three of us sat down with GRAMMY nominated engineer Brian Lucey — whose vast credits include projects with the likes of Ryan Tedder and Michael Buble, as well as The Greatest Showman, In The Heights and more. The energy was high when Lucey sat down with us on the morning of the Latin GRAMMYs ahead of his win.

Not only is Lucey an extraordinary engineer, but he is also a teacher which was evident as he seamlessly explained complex technical and musical concepts over our casual lunch at the MGM Grand.

Lucey explained how he listens to music as an engineer — a practice of "whole body listening" which can be achieved through meditation or whatever helps you listen without bias. Listening to music as an engineer requires you to "get out of the way" so that you can. He goes on to explain that when working on music, it is important to have a larger frame of references to be able to understand what they are listening to in a macro sense. He continues to stress the importance of balance between physical, intellectual and emotional responses.

Engineer Daniel Galindo joined us over Zoom and recalled how, when he got the call about his Latin GRAMMY nomination for Juanes' Origen, he was worried it would be bad news. After feeling initially relieved when it was good news, he was also shocked as this was his first major award nomination. Engineering for Juanes also proved to be a full circle moment for Galindo, as he grew up listening to the Colombian singer/songwriter.

Flamenco artist Maria Toledo celebrated her fifth Latin GRAMMY nomination this past year for her EP El Rey. She has been singing and playing piano her entire life and is her own accompanist, a distinguishing factor for the artist/performer. Maria's hometown of Toledo, Spain has great influence on her music, which is why she chose to film her music video for "El Rey," in her beloved city at the Castillo de San Servando.

She explains that the coexistence of cultures in Toledo has played a large role in how she conducts her collaboration in her music and her great desire to achieve fusion in her sound. On her most recent project, Ranchera Flamenca, she collaborated with "mastermind" Mexican producer and writer, Chuco Rinco and his son Fabian who she claims gave the album "the Mexican touch we needed and on the other hand, with the production of Curro Carrasco and mine we have given that flamenco touch we were looking for."

When asked what advice she would give to her 18 year old self she said: "My advice is to be yourself and be clear at least what you don't want in your life. If you have security and firmness, you will always be able to do what is born in your heart.

"Constancy and passion will help you a lot on your way. I never wait, I always keep working and may life surprise me with what it has in store for me," she continued. "Here I continue to enjoy everything beautiful that music gives us every day. It is a gift to live, it is a gift to sing."

Autumn Rowe — who won the GRAMMY Award for Album Of The Year for her work on Jon Batiste's We Are — and I bonded over our roots in the Bronx. Autumn explained how monumental finding out about her nomination was as she has worked for this for her entire life.

Having attended a school in Manhattan for the talented and gifted, Autumn has always been a force to be reckoned with. At just 16 years old, she interned at Island Records, helping her discover that her passion in life was to create. The partnership with Batiste comes from years of friendship and collaboration, highlighting how important it is to build relationships in this industry.

Mastering engineer Dale Becker was nominated for his work on Doja Cat's "Planet Her," and spoke about "departing from the status quo" when it comes to trends in audio. In order to understand where trends in audio are heading, you must be actively consuming new music and creating relationships with other audio tastemakers.

He explains the dynamic nature of the music industry and said he is excited for the future and continuing to grow and learn. While "maintaining a finger on the pulse" is important, it's also crucial to not get stuck on the "newness." Becker considers balance, partnerships and work ethic to be the most valuable as a team member.

My final interview was with producer/writer/musician Jeff "Gitty" Gitelman, who called me on his way to Palm Springs for Coachella. The jazz prodigy shared his musical journey to his 2022 GRAMMY nominations for his work with H.E.R., who he's been working with for 12 years.

Gitty had his first big break playing guitar with Lauryn Hill and eventually landed a gig as Alicia Keys' touring guitar player. He and Keys began writing together, which led him to an epiphany that he was passionate about not just playing, but producing  and writing as well. He decided to leave touring life with Alicia to pursue a dream of his, starting his own rock band. After going through all of the trials and tribulations that one does in a major career pivot, he decided once again, to pivot, moving to Los Angeles and immediately booking a gig with the legendary Stevie Wonder.

Gitty spoke of the importance of mentorship and surrounding yourself with people who dare to dream. He says you must almost be "delusional with your dreams" to make them a reality, and stressed that confidence is a necessity in the industry. He explained that achieving confidence takes tremendous work, and having someone in your corner that sees your vision is instrumental. Throughout my time with Gitty, he demonstrated what we all hear and what we all seem to forget: that success is never linear.

Attending the awards and having the opportunity to interview thought leaders in the music industry are experiences that I will always remember. As a GRAMMY U representative, it was important for me to seek their advice for students who are just getting started in the industry and these nominees did not disappoint.

"Giving the next generation of music creators and professionals an opportunity to meet with, connect and from the very golden nominee and award winners they aspire to be, is one of the best highlights of the work we do at the Chapters with our beloved GRAMMY U membership," Qiana Conley says. 

GRAMMY U is currently accepting applications for Representatives. Learn more about the role and apply now.

5 Highlights Of GRAMMY U's Spring 2022 Mentorship Program

Marking a major step forward in the music industry and online learning, the Recording Academy has partnered with industry-leading online music education platform Forte to provide and expand access to the highest quality in music education for students of all levels. Through the new partnership, Forte, known for its use of high-definition audio quality and user-friendly design, will be the only online platform where students can access accomplished musicians from the Recording Academy’s esteemed membership, including GRAMMY winners and GRAMMY nominees.

More than 100 Forte teachers have been verified as members of the Recording Academy or as GRAMMY winners or GRAMMY nominees. This process included a screening for each instructor that guarantees Forte teachers hold significant teaching experience and background, ensuring all students receive instructions and lessons from knowledgeable and experienced educators.

"Members of the Recording Academy are among the most experienced and prestigious music creators in the world, working in the highest levels of the music industry," Forte co-founder and CEO Mark Murtagh said in a statement. "If a student has ever dreamed of learning an instrument or song writing from a GRAMMY nominee or winner, Forte now makes that possible. This unprecedented partnership exemplifies Forte's mission to radically expand access to high-quality music education and the Recording Academy's dedication to advancing the future of music."

Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr. further spoke on the revolution of online music education.

"Online learning is revolutionizing education, expanding access and creating new opportunities for families and students everywhere," Mason jr. said in a statement. "The Recording Academy is proud to help expand music instruction through our partnership with Forte. Our extraordinary members are excited to share their expertise and knowledge with future music creators."

All lessons will be on Forte's online platform. Learn more and sign up now for lessons via Forte's official website.

GRAMMY Museum & Recording Academy Announced Second Annual Quinn Coleman Memorial Scholarship

Carlie Anderson contributed to this story.

Following GRAMMY U’s recent membership expansion, the Recording Academy is thrilled to welcome the 2023-24 GRAMMY U Representative class.

These 14 college students are rising leaders in the music industry, dedicated to pushing forward inclusivity and creativity. Serving up to three consecutive years, each GRAMMY U Representative works closely with their local Chapter as well as the national GRAMMY U team to support membership projects and diverse programs for creators.

Founded in 2006, GRAMMY U has been supporting college students pursuing careers in music for nearly two decades — and now, as of Aug. 15, the program’s membership is extended not just to college students, but to those between 18 to 29 hoping to work in the music industry.

This exciting expansion means that GRAMMY U’s year ahead will offer more opportunities than ever, and the program’s latest class of Reps is ready to be your guide. Read on to get to know the 2023-24 class of GRAMMY U Representatives.

Jasmine Gordon | Atlanta

Jasmine is studying at Spelman College as a comparative women’s studies major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

My favorite genre of music is R&B because this genre has a unique ability to evoke deep emotions and create a powerful connection between the listener and the artist. R&B’s remarkable versatility seamlessly blends elements from gospel, jazz, funk, pop, and more, ensuring it caters to a wide range of musical tastes. This genre consistently offers me a diverse spectrum of musical experiences, making it an endless source of enjoyment.

What’s your favorite part about the music industry? 

My favorite part about the music industry is the opportunity for boundless creativity, allowing me to translate a multitude of ideas into expressive realities. As a person driven by creativity, it was crucial for me to find an industry that allows me to express my creativity in multiple different realms. 

If you could plan a GRAMMY U event centered around any music creator or professional, who would it be and why?

I would center the event around Sylvia Rhone, discussing the evolution of the music industry in honor of hip-hop's 50th anniversary. Sylvia's influential role in shaping the industry, fostering talents like Missy Elliott, MC Lyte, Busta Rhymes, Travis Scott, and more, makes her a remarkable choice. Her impact on artists spanning generations, from Lil Wayne to 21 Savage, reflects her enduring significance and wisdom of the music industry.

Connect with Jasmine:

Email: grammyu.atlanta@recordingacademy.com

IG: @jazzy.gord

Rachel Owen | Chicago

Rachel is studying at Columbia College Chicago as a music business major with a focus in artist management. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

Why did you become a GRAMMY U Representative?

I had the immense pleasure of being a GRAMMY U Ambassador for two years before I had this position. As an ambassador, I got to experience all the wonderful events we had in Chicago. I was inspired to become a GRAMMY U Representative because I felt the desire to become involved in the national programs as well as the Chicago chapter programs. I saw the Representatives before me traveling to different places for conferences and meeting other like-minded music lovers across the country, and I felt really inspired to take the leap to becoming a representative to connect with members in other parts of the country.

What song do you want to define your time as a GRAMMY U Representative?

Although the song could be perceived as sad, I want "You’re Gonna Go Far" by Noah Kahan to define my time as a GRAMMY U Representative. A song about having big dreams, moving away from home to pursue them, and validating the bittersweet reality of growing up into who you were always meant to be, "You’re Gonna Go Far," feels like a perfect anthem for this period in my life. 

Being the GRAMMY U Representative has been a dream of mine for a few years now, and that song reminds me of my biggest supporters back home who helped me get where I am.

Who is a music industry creator or professional that inspires you?

I am very inspired by musician Chappell Roan. She is a queer artist who has built herself authentically and unapologetically. She has a keen eye for artistry and has learned to adopt many personas while remaining simply and purely herself. She also makes music that I believe to be profound, beautiful, and masterfully made.

Connect with Rachel:

Email: grammyu.chicago@recordingacademy.com

IG: @rachelgraceowen

Samantha Kopec | Florida

Samantha is studying at the University of Miami as a music industry major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

Classical music will always hold a special place in my heart. I’ve played piano and clarinet for over 10 years, and being a classical musician was how I got my start in the industry. I’m always intrigued by genre-blending compositions, and I've performed pieces that incorporate electronics, DJs, rappers, and vocalists into a traditional wind ensemble setting. 

As a listener, I gravitate towards indie and alternative music since it gives artists the freedom to experiment with different production styles and arrangements while still getting melodies stuck in your head.

What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?

I can’t wait to strengthen the sense of community among GRAMMY U members and the team of GRAMMY U reps. As a Florida native, I am particularly excited about engaging members across the state through informative events, mentorship, and networking opportunities. By sharing experiences and resources, we can all grow, gain new perspectives, and inspire each other to make an impact in the music industry.

What is your dream career in the music industry?

My dream job is to work in entertainment law. I’m passionate about advocating for artists and strive to empower, support, and educate them. The dynamic and fast-paced environment of the legal field would give me the opportunity to work on different tasks and challenge myself every day.

Connect with Samantha:

Email: grammyu.florida@recordingacademy.com

IG: @sam_kopec

Jade Bacon | Los Angeles

Jade is in her third year at the USC Thornton School of Music as a jazz voice major. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?

Going into my second year in this position, I'm excited to use my skills and experiences to innovate this program even more. I've been able to see how much our work at GRAMMY U impacts the young minds of the music industry and gives them the platform needed to follow their passions. I see it as a privilege to have this opportunity and I'm excited to keep pushing the envelop to see what's possible.

What song do you want to define your time as a GRAMMY U Representative?

"Can't Get Out of this Mood" - Samara Joy

If you could plan a GRAMMY U event centered around any music creator or professional, who would it be and why?

I would make an event around Tyler, the Creator. He has been able to cultivate such a specific brand around himself that surpasses his music. This allows his fanbase to really feel within a community as a follower of him. His artistic influences in all his creative endeavors are so specific to himself but also full of ingenuity. I think he's a great person to inspire young artists and entrepreneurs.

Connect with Jade:

Email: grammyu.la@recordingacademy.com  

IG: @jadembacon

Shannon Conte | Memphis

Shannon is a business management major at Tulane University. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your dream career in the music industry?

My dream is to be managing some of the biggest musicians in the industry. Being that I am studying management, legal studies and music, I am hopefully preparing myself to be able to hold such a position in music. I have always loved music, but never been musically inclined myself so being able to take what I am good at and still pursue my passion for music is my ultimate goal. 

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

I love neo-soul music. I think the genre completely changed the music industry during the mid 90s and to this day has a lasting impact on the industry. I love listening to modern R&B and hip-hop music and being able to hear elements of the neo-soul genre peaking through. 

What’s your favorite part about the music industry? 

I love how versatile the industry is. A professor of mine told me that every musician needs a manager, accountant, lawyer, etc. This opened my eyes to how many opportunities there are in the music industry no matter what you are interested in. I admire how anyone, no matter their interest or musical abilities can find their place in music if it is something they love. 

Connect with Shannon:

Email: grammyu.memphis@recordingacademy.com

IG: @sconte_

Della Lewis | Nashville

Della is studying at Belmont University. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?

I'm most excited to connect with members and facilitate a positive environment for creativity, community and fun. One of my favorite things is to connect people who have similar interests, and can help each other. I can't wait to bring this energy into GRAMMY U this year! Overall, I'm excited to watch relationships form and go from strangers to friends throughout the course of the year. 

What’s your favorite part about the music industry? 

Growing up going to open mic nights has made my favorite aspect of the music industry the supportive community within it. I was lucky to be surrounded with kind people who welcomed me into the world of performance and live entertainment. I look forward to returning the same encouragement and acceptance that I was once given to the GRAMMY U community. 

What is your dream career in the music industry?

My dream job has a lot of aspects to it. I would be a medium-sized artist that also manages and produces a female-focused studio that creates a safe and welcoming environment catered to female artists. I would also create a clothing line based off of my albums as a separate stream of revenue to harness my love of fashion design. 

Connect with Della:

Email: grammyu.nashville@recordingacademy.com

IG: @dellalewismusic

Sara Hudson | New York

Sara is studying at Pace University as a business admin in arts & entertainment management major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your dream career in the music industry?

My dream career in the music industry is somewhere in touring and live events. Since my first concert when I was 11, I always wanted to be more involved in live shows; the inner working of it all always intrigued me. There’s no better feeling than being in a room with 20 or 20,000 people and getting to sing the music you love with the artists you love, and there's no better feeling than getting to be a part of the team that makes moments like that happen. 

What song do you want to define your time as a GRAMMY U Representative?

"Long Live (Taylor's Version)" by Taylor Swift 

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

One of my favorite genres of music has to be alternative rock music. This genre has paved the way for many independent artists and labels over the years. But most importantly, this genre allows many artists to push boundaries when it comes to making music.

Connect with Sara:

Email: grammyu.ny@recordingacademy.com

IG: @sarahudson__

Chloe Sarmiento | Pacific Northwest

Chloe is studying at University of Washington as a journalism and public interest communication major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?

I'm eager to form meaningful connections with other students in the industry, as well as aid those who are looking for a way into the industry. Also, I'm looking forward to working alongside my other representatives to create impactful experiences and to share insightful resources.

What is your dream career in the music industry?

My dream career is to be a tour manager! I'm at a concert at least once (if not more times) a week, and there is no other feeling like being surrounded by a bunch of strangers who share the same love of an artist and their music. It is also infectious seeing the joy that other people hold at concerts, so being a tour manager would allow me to take part in the behind the scenes of these shows while helping create a memorable show for others.

If you could plan a GRAMMY U event centered around any music creator or professional, who would it be and why?

I would pick Jai Paul. His path in the industry was marked by setbacks, including the unauthorized leak of his debut album. With these challenges, he maintained his artistic integrity and eventually released his official debut album, which received praise all around. He has also been said to have influenced a generation of artists and producers, making an overall mark on popular culture.

Connect with Chloe:

Email: grammyu.pnw@recordingacademy.com

IG: @chloe.sarmiento

Tamara Tondreau | Philadelphia

Tamara is studying at Drexel University as an entertainment and arts management major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your dream career in the music industry? 

I always wanted to have a creative side of my career and a business side of my career for duality! For the creative side of my career, I aspire to continue songwriting, as I have been doing it since middle school. For the business side of my career, I hope to dabble in brand partnerships, A&R/artist management, and eventually own my own record label.

What is your favorite genre of music and why? 

My favorite genre of music I would have to say is rhythm and blues. Rhythm and blues, or R&B is so versatile and has been the foundation for popular genres such as rock and roll. Just in the R&B genre alone, I have been exposed to many other genres and subgenres such as alternative R&B, hip-hop, and soul. Some of my favorite artists are in the R&B genre!

What skill(s) are you looking forward to gaining as a GRAMMY U Representative? 

The leadership aspect of the program is the biggest skill I hope to gain. Being able to represent all of Philadelphia for one of the largest music companies in the world is extremely rewarding! While being a Rep, I hope to gain and enhance skills such as digital marketing, public speaking, graphic design, artist discovery, public relations, data analysis, business management and more. 

Connect with Tamara:

Email: grammyu.philly@recordingacademy.com

IG: tuneoftheyear

Taila Lee | San Francisco

Taila is in her fourth year at the University of California, Berkeley as a media studies major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?

I’m most looking forward to fostering a close-knit community with my fellow Representatives and with my Chapter. I’m beyond excited to see how we can all share resources and insights to build a supportive, inspiring network within the music industry!

What is your dream career in the music industry?

I aspire to work full-time in the music industry’s editorial space, whether that be as a music journalist or digital content producer. I’m a writer at heart, though I love taking on any creative role, and one of my favorite things in the world is speaking with musicians about what’s special about their work.

What song do you want to define your time as a GRAMMY U Representative?

"Green Light (Chromeo Remix)" - Lorde

Connect with Taila:

Email: grammyu.sf@recordingacademy.com

IG: @taila.lee

Pierson Livingston | Texas

Pierson is studying at University of Texas at Austin as a public relations major and media and entertainment industries major. This is his first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?

I am most excited to really connect with everyone and meet so many new people. I can't wait to get to meet with all the members in my chapter and build more relationships with my peers. I also am super excited to be able to get new perspectives on the music industry and learn from those already in it.

What is your dream career in the music industry?

Right now, my dream career inside the music industry is to work in the publicity sector of music. I have always had an interest in writing and the creativity behind journalism and publicity, so combining that with my passion for music has led me down this path where I see a way to have both. 

I am still unsure the exact route I want to take — working for an agency, at a label, with one artist or at another music focused organization — but I think there is still time for me to learn and narrow it down.

What song do you want to define your time as a GRAMMY U Representative?

Even though it’s hard for me to narrow down to one song that I want to define my time as a GRAMMY U Representative, I think my pick would be "Don’t Stop Me Now" by Queen. As I enter into my senior year and this role with GRAMMY U, I am so excited for everything that is happening and the places it will take me. Plus, this song is super fun to jam out to!

Connect with Pierson:

Email: grammyu.texas@recordingacademy.com

IG: @pierson.jl

Shaneel Young | Washington D.C.

Shaneel is studying at Howard University as a business marketing major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?

I’m looking forward to sharing resources and career development opportunities to my local community. I want to make the music industry more accessible to students just starting out in their careers and wanting to get their foot in the door by creating further awareness around what GRAMMY U has to offer. I’m also looking forward to the mentorship and professional development that I will receive as a Representative.

What song do you want to define your time as a GRAMMY U Representative?

"Persuasive" - Doechii

What’s your favorite part about the music industry? 

My favorite part about the music industry is watching artists grow, develop, and transform throughout their careers. I am an avid music listener and have witnessed so many of my favorite underrated artists "blow up" and reach mainstream success. Also, the creative aspect of the music industry is something that I am obsessed with. I love the fact that anything is possible and the next big thing could be something (or someone) that no one was able to predict. 

Connect with Shaneel:

Email: grammyu.dc@recordingacademy.com

IG: @seasonsofshai

Roy Gantz | National Membership

Roy is studying at University of Southern California as a public relations major, along with minors in songwriting and theatre. This is his first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?

I'm excited to use my creative talents to find ways to make GRAMMY U membership even more exciting and enriching. Coming off a dream-come-true year as a GRAMMY U ambassador, I'm looking forward to expanding my prospects and deepening my involvement as a representative. 

I can't wait to sink my teeth into creating huge national programs and finding opportunities for GRAMMY U members to experience everything music has to offer!

What is your dream career in the music industry?

My dream career in the music industry is to be an artist. I want to continue using my voice to tell stories. I also want to continue fostering myself as a multi-hyphenate — someone who can handle all aspects of the industry, whether it be business or creative, to build a brand for myself and what I stand for.

If you could plan a GRAMMY U event centered around any music creator or professional, who would it be and why?

I would plan an event centered around Lady Gaga because of her hustle, commitment to social justice, and unique perspective. I think Lady Gaga is one of the greatest artists alive, and her perspective on not just the music industry but the world at large is worth listening to. I'd love to hear her opinions on how young artists should be using their voices and hear about how she found her own.

Connect with Roy:

Email: grammyu.membership@recordingacademy.com

IG: @roy.gantz

Carlie Anderson | National Projects

Carlie is a music business and entertainment industries major at University of Miami. This is her third year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What’s your favorite part about the music industry? 

My favorite part about the music industry is how it is constantly changing and so fast-paced. It forces you to stay updated on what is trending and current events. I also love how much more inclusive the industry has become in recent years and the idea that there is no set mold of someone who wants to be a music creator or professional.

What song do you want to define your time as a GRAMMY U Representative?

"Speed Drive" - Charli XCX

If you could plan a GRAMMY U event centered around any music creator or professional, who would it be and why?

My dream GRAMMY U event with any music creator or professional would probably have to be an Up Close & Personal with Sampha. I think he has so much knowledge and insight to share with up and coming music creators as someone who is not only an established artist in his own right but is regularly featured on large-scale artists' music.

Connect with Carlie:

Email: grammyu.projects@recordingacademy.com

IG: @carlieanderson

GRAMMY U Membership Expands: How The Program Increases Inclusivity Beyond College Enrollment

Cheers filled the room on July 28 as guests of the Recording Academy's Washington, D.C. Chapter block party — the chapter's first in four years. 

The world has changed significantly since the Chapter's last block party, but as Chapter President Tamara Wellons (who is also a gifted vocalist) noted, one thing remains the same: "Music is that thing that really helps us." 

The six-hour event provided the opportunity for both fellowship and knowledge-building. The first half featured a Creator Lounge, where panelists spoke on the nuances of an ever-changing industry and how musicians can adapt, advocate and monetize their work. The block party itself took place on the rooftop of THRōW Social D.C., and included finger foods, cocktails and performances by local artists. Among those artists was DJ Oji, a Brooklyn-bred and Baltimore-based house DJ.

The block party fell on the same day as The Day that Music Cares, the first-ever day of service for the music community. To commemorate this day, attendees were encouraged to bring school supplies for the chapter’s back to school drive. 

For Wellons, it was extremely important that the block party be equally diverse, informative, and fun. The goal was for the local music community to walk away with the knowledge they need to advance their careers.

"One thing we wanted to do was have our block party be just a little different  not just an average party," Wellons told GRAMMY.com. "We wanted to get organizations that offered grants, like the Maryland State Arts Council or the D.C. Commission [on The Arts & Humanities]. They have these grants and things that a lot of our music community don't know about and have not taken advantage of completely."

The advancement of knowledge about available resources, along with the idea of advocacy, were huge themes throughout the event. Members attended discussions about the potential uses of AI, the RAP Act and the importance of ensuring all creators get paid fairly.

The first panel, which was led by Todd Dupler, the Recording Academy’s Acting Chief Advocacy & Public Policy Officer, and Dr. Chelsey Green, the Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees, discussed the Academy’s efforts to fight on behalf of music creators.

"What's great about the Recording Academy is that we represent all creators, no matter their craft or their genre," Dupler said. "Especially here in the Washington D.C. chapter, there's always been great synergy between having a chapter in our nation's capital and the advocacy work that we do year-round." 

Members of the D.C. Chapter were also given exclusive access to register early for District Advocate Day, an initiative through which Recording Academy members across the country can get involved in the Academy’s advocacy work. 

"My hope is that [members] understand that we value not only what they do as an Academy member, but who they are as a working musician, [as well as] what needs they have as an artist and how we can support that," said Green, a skilled violinist and founder of the Green Project, an ensemble that aims to break down stereotypes around the violin and viola. "We're all part of one Academy, and that is what the Academy is about. It’s about the community supporting creators year-round."

The second panel, which was led by YouTube Music Global Music Strategist Lead Mahlet Seyoum, discussed YouTube monetization and how creators can benefit from the use of assets like YouTube Shorts. For Seyoum, it is important for marginalized creators, especially Black ones, are able to profit and receive the utmost credit for their work.

"I'm always going to be holding it down for us and making sure that the people who are really the bedrock of the culture — are producing the most content and are at the top of the charts — are able to monetize, profit off of and grow from their creativity, from their work and from their art," said Seyoum.

The block party portion of the event kicked off with performances by Pinky Tha Rapper and Noochie, two Washington D.C. rappers on the rise, along with sounds by DJ Joxfroxi. 

"[D.C.’s] just a very unique place when it comes to fashion, music, even the Black experience," said Noochie, who is known for his #FrontPorchFreestyles series on Instagram and is inspired by D.C.'s life and culture. "I've been to a lot of other cities, and I don't feel as comfortable as I do here. I consider myself lucky to be from here."

Other performers included DC-based indie soul band Oh He Dead, as well as three-time GRAMMY nominee Raheem DeVaughn and his go-go band, the Crank Crusaders.

Wayna, a GRAMMY-nominated singer and actress who co-authored the Best Song For Social Change Award, enjoyed each aspect of the block party, which allowed for learning, relaxation and entertainment. A newly elected member to the Recording Academy’s Board of Trustees, she resonated greatly with the messages around advocacy.

"I became an artist because I wanted to tell stories, and very often the stories that I want to tell — and a lot of marginalized artists want to tell — are those of people who don't have a voice," she said. "The point of creating that empathy and connection through music is so that we can have a world where it's more equitable and people have more opportunities. That is the outcome of great art."

The energy at the block party certainly indicates that the Recording Academy's D.C Chapter knows how to party; but more than that, they know how to cultivate community and connection during a time at which those things are needed most. 

2023 GRAMMY Camp Musicians Share Their Artist Session Experiences

Since its inception in 2006, GRAMMY U has been an avenue for college students pursuing careers in music to achieve their dreams. The program has been so successful that it's time to open the floodgates.

As of Aug. 15, the Recording Academy membership program no longer requires college enrollment in its application guidelines — which extends the magic of GRAMMY U to everyone from 18 to 29 who wishes to work in the music industry.

"For many years, GRAMMY U has invested in the development of emerging young music creators and professionals by providing resources and a supportive ecosystem committed to helping them thrive in the music industry," said CEO of the Recording Academy, Harvey Mason jr.

"With this expansion, GRAMMY U is ensuring that membership will be more inclusive and accessible for the next generation of music creators and professionals," he continued. "No matter their career path."

Adds Jessie Allen, the Senior Director at GRAMMY U, "As a student member of the first GRAMMY U membership class in 2006, I have had the opportunity to watch the program grow over the years and see the impact it's made on the music community. With this new eligibility change, we are thrilled to support even more professionals and creators on their journey into the industry."

The updated eligibility requirements can be found below:

Option 1: Full-Time Student

• Students must be currently enrolled in an accredited college, university or trade school full-time (nine credits) and pursuing Associate, Bachelors, Masters, or PhD degrees.

Option 2 (NEW): Professional / Creative, 18-29

• Professionals or creatives between 18-29 years old pursuing a career in music.

• Students between 18-29 years old studying at college part time or taking any certificate course or program.

A crucial component of the Recording Academy, GRAMMY U was founded in 2006 to bridge connections between the music industry and aspiring professionals raring to be part of it. Over the course of its existence, it's had more than 32,000 members.

For more information about GRAMMY U, expanded membership and how to apply, visit www.grammyu.com.

Congratulations to all prospective GRAMMY U members for whom this new provision opens doors — and keep watching this space for more GRAMMY U news!

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