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GRAMMY-nominated Producer Sven Thomas

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"Careers In Music" Panel Brings Industry Professionals & Students Together For Discussions On Working In Entertainment

The panelists offered students their stories and best advice for using the skills they are learning now to begin future careers in the music industry

GRAMMYs/Jan 26, 2020 - 08:21 am

As music continues to evolve and transform before us, so do the ways that we consume it, interact with it and share it. Between streaming and social media, new self-starting opportunities have been created for artists unlike any other before, while also bringing to the table unfamiliar challenges and barriers to entry that come with internet-first culture. Thus, for many students and music lovers, pursuing a career in the music industry is of viable interest and you don’t have to be the next Billie Eilish or Lil Nas X to do so. However, for many young people looking to get their foot in the door, questions like "who do I need to meet?," "what kinds of jobs can I do?" and "where do I really even begin?" still persist. 

Yesterday, Jan. 24, the GRAMMY Museum's Clive Davis Theater hosted a series of "Careers in the Music Industry," each focused on moderating the discussion and facilitating Q&A’s between industry professionals and students interested in pursuing careers in music. The day’s first panel featured several artists and industry professionals from Sony/ATV Music Publishing who offered insight into their work and beginner's advice for building a career from the ground up, on your own terms. Panelists included A&R and Business Affairs Assistant Kelsey Reddick, Singer/Songwriter Giveon, "Work" and "10 Bands" GRAMMY-nominated Producer turned Executive Sevn Thomas and Creative Marketing Manager of TV and Film Sync KK Salamin.

Go Inside The Official 2020 GRAMMYs Gift Lounge

The panelists discussed their backgrounds, and how landing where they are in their careers took serious commitment and more often than not, some serious finesse. For each guest, it was their love of music that helped them continue trying to pursue careers in music, even when it may have seemed impossible at times.  The first thing you can do for yourself is putting yourself out there, they offered. "You can’t do what we’re doing from the couch," said Salamin. "It’s about staying patient and keeping faith," said Thomas.

Re-emphasizing the importance of patience, hard work and following your own path as an artist, Giveon offered that constantly working on your craft is the best step in building up to your goals. "Success is when preparation meets opportunity… There’s no formula to do this, this and this, and you're an artist. There wasn’t anywhere that I could go get an internship and I would become an artist," he said. "All I could do was work on my craft, get better and two years later here I am signed to Sony.” He continued, explaining that manifesting his own goals as an artist has been one major key in his career development. "Anything you want, no matter if you know how to get to it, just say I will have it."

GRAMMY In The Schools Live 2020: Bebe Rexha Performs & Mickey Smith Jr. Named Music Educator Of The Year

The sentiment was one that rung thoroughly throughout each panelists response when asked what advice they’d offer to a student, whether pursuing a career in music or otherwise. "Work very hard. Have a focus and go for it relentlessly," offered Thomas. "Everyone’s path is different, it’s never a straight line," said Salamin. "It’s about being persistent… Being absorbed by music, if you love it you will be excited by it every day." Further cosigning the commentary, Reddick added: "There is no ceiling. Speak what you want into existence."

The second panel of the day, moderated by Candace Newman, CEO and Founder of LIVE OUT L!VE, featured a group of women in the industry whose positions and roles spanned the likes of performing artists, managers, philanthropy and live events, including Tour Manager Eboni Gentry, Celebrity Makeup Artist and Live Entertainment Producer Melanesia Hunter, Artist Manager at SAL&CO/Maverick Dina Sahim and Singer/Songwriter Sabrina Lentini.

Emily Lazar, Linda Perry & Other Powerful Industry Women Talk Inclusivity In Music

The panelists offered information about some of the best resources for young women who want to get involved with the music industry both on stage and behind the scenes. Making use of social media is key, they explained, as a tool for reaching out and connecting with support systems throughout the music community. Mentioned by Lentini, the Women’s International Music Network is an anchor in bringing women throughout the industry together for events and opportunities to perform, network and support one another. Further, Newman’s own organization LIVE OUT L!VE is constantly working to create access and opportunity for women in the touring space with events, shows and meetings year-round. For more information, visit the organization’s homepage here.

Be sure to stay tuned to GRAMMY.com throughout the week for your behind-the-scenes pass into 2020 GRAMMY Week events, including the 2020 GRAMMY Awards airing live on CBS tomorrow, Jan. 26, featuring performers Lil Nas X, Billie Eilish, Lizzo and more.

Lainey Wilson performs at 'A New York Evening With Lainey Wilson' at National Sawdust on August 25, 2023 in New York City
Lainey Wilson performs at 'A New York Evening With Lainey Wilson' at National Sawdust on August 25, 2023 in New York City. She will be at the GRAMMY Museum in L.A. on Sept. 5.

Photo: Rob Kim/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

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20 Live Events At The GRAMMY Museum This September: Experience Orville Peck, Kate Hudson, Tierra Whack & More

This September, join the GRAMMY Museum for live discussions and performances from Lainey Wilson, Sleater-Kinney, Don Toliver, and many more.

GRAMMYs/Aug 29, 2024 - 05:05 pm

As the leaves begin to turn and the evenings draw in, the GRAMMY Museum is preparing to host an exciting lineup of in-person events this September in downtown Los Angeles and New York City. 

Featuring a diverse array of artists from Big Sean to Steve Aoki, the Museum offers fans unparalleled access to intimate discussions and performances. Whether you're a fan of indie vibes, soulful melodies, or the pulsating rhythms of global pop, there's something for everyone in this season's programming.

Check out the comprehensive list of must-attend GRAMMY Museum public programs for September 2024:

A Conversation With Big Sean

August 30, 2024 at 6 p.m.

L.A.

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While not actually in September, Big Sean kicks off the fall season in a big way. The legendary rapper joins guests at the Museum’s intimate 200-seat Clive Davis Theater for an evening of conversation discussing his latest album, Better Me Than You, his creative process, and more. 

Spotlight: Faye Webster

Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A.
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Join Atlanta-based singer-songwriter Faye Webster as she discusses her latest album and creative journey in an intimate setting.

Global Spin Live: I.M

Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A.

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Dive into the world of K-pop with I.M, the lead rapper of Monsta X, as he discusses his solo career trajectory and upcoming music, capped off with a live performance.

Read more: Monsta X On Why They Are 'One Of A Kind,' Staying Creative And Being "Tough On The Outside And Soft On The Inside"

The Drop: Lainey Wilson

September 5, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A.

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Join country music great Lainey Wilson at the Museum’s 300-seat Ray Charles Rooftop Terrace for an evening of conversation celebrating her career, latest project, WHIRLWIND, and more, with a performance to follow. 

Read more: Meet The First-Time GRAMMY Nominee: Lainey Wilson On How Her Stardom Is A Testament To "Believin' And Receivin'"

A New York Evening With Ingrid Michaelson

September 5, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

N.Y.C.

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The GRAMMY Museum and 92NY are thrilled to host Ingrid Michaelson for an intimate conversation about her album, For the Dreamers, composing music for The Notebook, her creative process, and more, followed by a performance.

A New York Evening with Tierra Whack

September 6, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

N.Y.C.

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Join Tierra Whack at National Sawdust in Brooklyn, NY to celebrate her debut project, Whack World, with a discussion about her creative process behind the release, her career, and more, with a special performance to follow. 

Read more: The Recording Academy Philly Chapter Celebrates 30 Years With An Inaugural Block Party & Fireside Chat With Tierra Whack

An Evening With Kate Hudson

Monday, September 9, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A.

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Actress and singer Kate Hudson will share insights into her musical expression showcased in her latest album Glorious, followed by a performance.

Read more: Kate Hudson Is A Singer Now — And She Doesn't Care What You Think

An Evening With Sleater-Kinney 

(Moderated by Molly Neuman)

Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A. 

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Celebrate 30 years of Sleater-Kinney as they discuss their enduring influence, latest music, and personal trials, accompanied by a live performance.

Read more: On 'Little Rope,' Sleater-Kinney Still Wear Their Hearts On Their Sleeves

A New York Evening with Chris and Rich Robinson of The Black Crowes

September 11, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

N.Y.C.

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Join Chris and Rich Robinson of The Black Crowes at National Sawdust in Brooklyn, NY to celebrate their 10th studio album, Happiness Bastards, with a discussion about their careers, their creative process behind the project, and more, and a special performance to follow. 

A Conversation With Don Toliver

(moderated by Charlie Wilson

September 11, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A.

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Join Don Toliver and Sickamore to the Museum’s intimate 200-seat Clive Davis Theater for an evening of discussion about Don Toliver’s album, HARDSTONE PSYCHO, their collaboration, careers, and creative process. The conversation will be moderated by R&B Icon and 13 time GRAMMY Nominee Charlie Wilson. 

A New York Evening With Hermanos Gutiérrez

September 12, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

N.Y.C.

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Join Hermanos Gutiérrez at National Sawdust in Brooklyn, NY celebrating their latest album, Sonido Cósmico, with a discussion moderated by WNYC’s John Schaefer about their creative process, career, and more, with a special performance to follow. 

Spotlight: John Summit

(Moderated by Jason Bentley, KCRW / Metropolis) 

September 12, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A.

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Join John Summit at the Museum’s 300-seat Ray Charles Rooftop Terrace for an evening discussing and celebrating his debut album, Comfort In Chaos, and his creative process and career, with a performance to follow. Attendees will also have an opportunity to enjoy rooftop views and a cash bar prior to the program.  

Read more: Finding 'Comfort In Chaos': John Summit On The Journey To His Debut Album

Sensory Friendly Saturdays

September 14, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

L.A.

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Experience Sensory Friendly Saturday on the second Saturday of every month. Families can enjoy our space with less crowding, quieter sound levels and lower lighting on the second Saturday of every month from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Guests can purchase tickets when they arrive at the Museum or they can purchase online for the applicable Saturday.

The Drop: Orville Peck

September 17, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A.

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Join Orville Peck at the Museum’s Ray Charles Rooftop Terrace for an evening discussing his latest and third studio album, Stampede, his creative process, and more, with a special performance to follow. Attendees will also have an opportunity to enjoy rooftop views and a cash bar prior to the program.  

Read more: Orville Peck's Road To 'Stampede': How The Masked Cowboy Became Country Music's Most Intriguing Anti-Hero

Spotlight: The Marías

(Moderated by Suzy Exposito)

September 18, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A.

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Join GRAMMY-nominated group The Marías to the Museum’s Ray Charles Rooftop Terrace for an evening discussing their latest album, Submarine, their multiple GRAMMY Award-nominations, their creative process, and more, with a special performance to follow. Attendees will also have an opportunity to enjoy rooftop views and a cash bar prior to the program.  

Read more: The Marías Plunge Into The Depths On 'Submarine': How The Band Found Courage In Collective Pain

Spotlight: WILLOW

September 20, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.

L.A.

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Join WILLOW at the Museum’s intimate 200-seat Clive Davis Theater for an evening celebrating her latest release, empathogen, her rising career, and creative process, with a performance to follow.

Read more: Willow Embraces Herself On 'COPINGMECHANISM': How The New Album Encouraged Her To "Be More Vulnerable Than I've Ever Been"

An Evening With Steve Aoki

September 23, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

L.A.

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Join two-time GRAMMY nominee Steve Aoki at the Museum’s Ray Charles Rooftop Terrace for an evening discussing his latest album, Paragon, creative process, and more, with a special performance to follow. Attendees will also have an opportunity to enjoy rooftop views and a cash bar prior to the program. In addition, fans will have the opportunity to see some of Steve’s most important artifacts, on display for one night only, such as his original DJ laptop and more!  

Read more: On 'Paragon,' Steve Aoki Keeps Pushing: "This Is By Far The Most Innovative Dance Album I've Ever Done"

A New York Evening With RAYE

September 26, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

N.Y.C.

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Join RAYE at The Loreto Theater at The Sheen Center for Thought & Culture in New York City celebrating her latest work, “Genesis”, with a discussion about her rising career, her creative process behind the project, and more, plus a special performance to follow. 

Watch: Watch RAYE Open Up About Her Prized Songwriting Notebook | It Goes To 11

Reel To Reel: Angelheaded Hipster: The Songs of Marc Bolan and T. Rex

September 26, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.

L.A.

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Enjoy a special screening of Angelheaded Hipster: The Songs of Marc Bolan and T. Rex in the Museum’s intimate 200-seat Clive Davis Theater with a post-screening panel discussion featuring Marc Bolan’s partner and musical collaborator Gloria Jones, his son Rolan Bolan, director Ethan Silverman, recording engineer Marc Urselli, and musician/author Richard Barone to talk about the creative process behind the film. Following the screening, there will be an acoustic performance featuring Barone and Rolan Bolan to close the evening.

SUNDAY BRUNCH with Ben Platt

September 29, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

L.A.

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Join the GRAMMY Museum for Sunday Brunch With…, a fundraising event series in support of our GRAMMY In The Schools education programs. 

The Museum is thrilled to team up with the incredible Ben Platt and the renowned VERSE LA, located in Toluca Lake, for an afternoon of great music and food. Guests will dine on a delicious 3-course brunch while enjoying live music performed by GRAMMY In The Schools education program alumni. Following the meal, guests will be treated to a rare, up close, and personal 45-minute performance from GRAMMY, Tony, and Emmy Award winner Ben Platt to close out the afternoon.

Read more: Inside Ben Platt's 'Honeymind': How Queer Love, Live Performance & More Led To His Most Authentic Album Yet

For more details and to secure tickets to these events, visit the GRAMMY Museum website. We look forward to welcoming you to these inspiring sessions!

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Latin GRAMMY 25 Years of Musical Excellence graphic

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New Latin Recording Academy Exhibits In New York, Los Angeles & Miami To Celebrate The 25th Anniversary Of The Latin GRAMMYs: Launching September 2024

Artifacts from Latin GRAMMY winners and nominees, along with original artwork, will be displayed at the Paley Museum in New York City, the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles, and the Gary Nader Art Centre in Miami.

GRAMMYs/Aug 15, 2024 - 05:14 pm

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Latin GRAMMYs, the Latin Recording Academy has announced a series of exhibits for 2024 at the Paley Museum in New York City, the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles, and the Gary Nader Art Centre in Miami.

"For 25 years we have had the immense privilege of celebrating excellence in Latin music, accompanying our music creators in their successes worldwide. These exhibits are a magnificent opportunity to bring the magic of the Latin GRAMMYs to the public," said Manuel Abud, CEO of the Latin Recording Academy. "We invite all music lovers to join us in New York City, Los Angeles and Miami to enjoy these exhibits, which are filled with unforgettable moments and important achievements that have marked our history."

The 2024 Latin GRAMMYs, officially known as the 25th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards, will air live from the Kaseya Center in Miami on Thursday, Nov. 14. The three-hour telecast, produced by TelevisaUnivision, the world's leading Spanish-language media and content company, will broadcast live on Univision, Galavisión, and ViX on Thursday Nov. 14, beginning at 8 p.m. ET/PT (7 p.m. CT), with a one-hour pre-show starting at 7 p.m. ET/PT. This year’s nominees will be announced on Tuesday, Sept. 17.

This year, the Latin GRAMMYs will debut a new Field and two new Categories: Best Latin Electronic Music Performance, housed within the new Electronic Music Field, and Best Contemporary Mexican Music Album (Regional-Mexican Field). Ahead of the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs, the Latin Recording Academy will host the official Latin GRAMMY Week 2024, which includes multiple events throughout Miami-Dade County including the 2024 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year gala, which this year honors 18-time Latin GRAMMY winner and two-time GRAMMY winner Carlos Vives.

Learn more about the new
Latin Recording Academy exhibits taking place in New York City, Los Angeles and Miami below:

The Paley Museum, New York City

Sept. 13 - Nov. 3

The Latin GRAMMYs kick-off exhibit at the Paley Museum showcases the remarkable 25-year history of Latin music, celebrating the vibrant cultural tapestry that has shaped the awards show into a global phenomenon. Visitors can explore priceless artifacts, glamorous costumes, and iconic instruments from music superstars like Ricky Martin, Rosalía, Carlos Santana, and Shakira — all Latin GRAMMY and GRAMMY winners — as well as celebrated New Yorkers such as Celia Cruz and Rúben Blades, whose influence has left an indelible mark on the music world. The exhibit will highlight some of the most unforgettable moments from the Latin GRAMMY Awards telecast, trace the show’s incredible evolution, and demonstrate why Latin music has become an essential part of our culture.

"It is a tremendous honor to partner with the Latin Recording Academy and to have the privilege of hosting this historic 25th anniversary celebration of the Latin GRAMMY Awards at the Paley Center," said Maureen J. Reidy, President & CEO of The Paley Center for Media. "This must-see exhibit will honor the indelible impact of Latin music and its visionary artists, whose innovative rhythms, poignant lyrics, and extraordinary contributions have redefined the global musical landscape and have had a profound impact not only on music but on entertainment and culture worldwide."

GRAMMY Museum, Los Angeles 

Sept. 19 - Dec. 18 

Hosted on the 2nd floor of the GRAMMY Museum as part of its permanent Latin Music Gallery, this exhibit will enhance the museum's extensive Latin aisle by featuring artifacts from global Latin superstars like Shakira, Carlos Santana, Karol G, and Rosalía, among others. The exhibit will explore the last 25 years of Latin GRAMMY history and the diverse musical genres and cultures that have graced its stage. 

At its core, the exhibit underscores how Latin music has evolved into a powerful commercial force in the international music landscape over the past quarter-century, with the Latin GRAMMYs playing a pivotal role in its global rise. The exhibit will also explore the history of the institution and its most significant moments, highlighting Latin music's creative complexity and enduring cultural impact.

"The Latin GRAMMYs have undeniably established themselves as a cultural landmark and a powerful influence in global music over the past 25 years," said Michael Sticka, President and CEO of the GRAMMY Museum. "This fall, we eagerly anticipate commemorating more than two decades of musical excellence, memorable highlights, and extraordinary moments from the Latin GRAMMYs at the GRAMMY Museum."

Gary Nader Art Centre, Miami

Sept. 26 - Dec. 20

Miami will host a first-of-its-kind collection of 25 years of Latin GRAMMY official art, featuring original paintings by renowned artists including Romero Britto, Walter Goldfarb, Michael V. Rios — who also designed the cover of Carlos Santana’s multi-GRAMMY-winning album Supernatural —and Patssi Valdez, among others. From mixed media to collage, murals and oil paintings, the collection includes renowned visual artists from several countries. In  addition,Brazilian muralist Aline Bispo, the official artist for the 24th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards, will unveil a new piece to inaugurate the festivities. 

"It is a profound honor to host the art exhibition commemorating the Latin GRAMMYs at our gallery in Miami. This city, with its vibrant culture and deep Latin roots, is the perfect setting to celebrate the rich heritage and artistic achievements of Latin music. We are thrilled to bring together art and music in such a dynamic fashion, highlighting the synergy between these two powerful expressions of creativity," said Gary Nader, founder of the Gary Nader Art Centre.

The Latest News About Latin Music

TWS Global Spin performance
TWS performs at Global Spin Live

Courtesy of the Recording Academy™️/photo by Rebecca Sapp, Getty Images© 2024.

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5 Takeaways From The GRAMMY Museum’s "HYBE: We Believe In Music" Exhibit

The first full-floor K-pop exhibit at the GRAMMY Museum runs through Sept. 15. Experience the magic of BTS, ENHYPEN, SEVENTEEN, LE SSERAFIM in an immersive exhibit of fashion, photos and more.

GRAMMYs/Aug 5, 2024 - 05:36 pm

In 2005, South Korean producer and songwriter Bang Si-Hyuk (aka "hitman" Bang) founded Bit Hit Entertainment. Only eight years later, he finished assembling what would come to be the label’s groundbreaking boy group, BTS. The rest is history, now chronicled in "HYBE: We Believe In Music," the first full-floor K-pop exhibit at the GRAMMY Museum, which runs through Sept. 15.

Following the success of Bit Hit’s premier act, and that of other artists under acquired labels SOURCE MUSIC and PLEDIS Entertainment, the company eventually evolved to become HYBE in 2021. "I think HYBE is very special in that they have gone beyond being just a K-pop company," says Kelsey Goelz, curator of the exhibit. "They have many different sub labels. They’ve come to America and gotten involved in the music business here, and then they’re also working in AI and gaming."

But beyond its global presence, one of K-pop’s ever-captivating elements is the sheer amount of blood, sweat, and tears that goes into making it possible, even when HYBE artists like ENHYPEN, SEVENTEEN, and LE SSERAFIM make it look easy. There’s a core humanity to this work ethic and dogged tenacity — to the level of artistry in general — that speaks to K-pop fans around the world.

While HYBE’s growth shows no signs of slowing down yet, the GRAMMY Museum exhibit takes a look back on the entertainment company’s legacy thus far. Read on for the five things we learned from the "HYBE: We Believe In Music" exhibit.

All photos Courtesy of the Recording Academy™️/photo by Rebecca Sapp, Getty Images© 2024.

In A Decade, BTS Built Themselves Into A Global Phenomenon

BTS Feature at GRAMMY Museum's HYBE Exhibit

Let’s start with a history lesson: despite being around for almost a decade, HYBE’s story begins in earnest with the formation of one of K-pop’s breakthrough acts, BTS, in 2013. (At that point, the company was still a standalone label.) Led by rapper RM, the seven boys hopped off a yellow school bus with a bratty, adolescent attitude — and that’s where the GRAMMY Museum’s exhibit picks up.

There’s a lot that happened between then and their seven Billboard No. 1s. Luckily, a wallpapered timeline breaks down all the major global highlights: the first U.S. tour, their UNICEF campaign, a landmark performance on "Saturday Night Live," and the announcement of BTS as TIME’s 2020 Entertainer of the Year, to name just a few.

Sitting in the middle of the museum floor is a glass case of polaroids — in them, Jin, Suga, j-hope, RM, Jimin, V and Jung Kook toss up peace signs while sporting novelty hats designed to look like BTS’s lightstick. Nostalgic and deeply silly, these photos date back to 2017 and 2018, serving as a reminder of the colossal strides BTS has taken in the intervening years.

Learn more: Breaking Down Every Solo Act From BTS: Singles, Debut Albums & What's Next For The Septet

It Takes A Village To Make A K-Pop Music Video

BOYNEXTDOOR's cabbie hats at GRAMMY Museum's HYBE Exhibit

When K-pop music videos are delivered to fans, they’re already finished products. Behind the curtain, it’s hard work to make them polished and perfect. Collected ‘fits and accessories throughout the exhibit get you up close and personal with creative details; then, to showcase the costumes in action, they’re paired with screens that play the finalized MVs.

Each customized artifact is an expression of its respective group’s individuality, from ENHYPEN’s King of Pop-inspired "Sweet Venom" ensembles to BOYNEXTDOOR’s slouchy cabbie caps. Other standouts include belts and chains from &TEAM’s angsty "Samidare," fromis_9’s opera-ready "#menow" jewels, and chunky necklaces featured in ILLIT’s runaway single "Magnetic." 

Everything Comes Back To The Music

Keyboard piano at GRAMMY Museum's Exhibit

HYBE’s proffered ethos is "we believe in music" — this motto gives the special exhibit its name, while also serving as a mission statement.

In a series of recorded interviews on view in the exhibit, HYBE’s idol songwriters share their process for and perspective on making music. The main takeaway: Inspiration comes in different forms. While writing, BTS’s j-hope pictures ideas as tree branches that sprout outward, while RM sees his rap verses as a realized world to live inside.

Literally, too, their lyrics mark the passage of time. If you’ve ever wondered why Suga circles back to motifs across the years, the rapper has all the answers for you here.

There’s also a conversation with WOOZI of SEVENTEEN, one of the K-pop industry’s most prolific idol composers with more than 150 credits to his name. It’s a penchant for plain language, he says, that makes the lyrics he writes really sing; the band’s beloved B-side "Hug," for example, gets its potency from everyday words and phrases. TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s Yeonjun likewise fills visitors in on the origin story behind co-written "Maze in the Mirror," a misty reflection of their tough trainee days. 

This isn’t to say they haven’t had help, of course. Nearby, clips of HYBE producers Pdogg, BUMZU, and ZICO, settled in their respective studios, walk us through how the instrumentals for songs like BTS’s "ON" and SEVENTEEN’s "Lilili Yabbay" came to be. Peruse at your leisure — for those curious about the creation of K-pop’s biggest hits, this corner of the exhibit could easily take up the better part of a trip. 

Fans Make K-Pop Special

SEVENTEEN Feature at the GRAMMY Museum's HYBE Exhibit

To some fans, K-pop is more than just the music. As a sincere few explain in an exhibit video, K-pop is something that has profoundly touched their lives, providing the basis for genuine friendships and community. Fans get to give a little bit of this positive energy back to their idols, particularly through online platforms like HYBE’s Weverse, where users can interact directly with artists. "I don’t think there’s another genre like K-pop that allows and enables that communication," Goetz, the curator, tells GRAMMY.com. 

In true form, the GRAMMY Museum offers an interactive experience. At the exhibit’s opening event, fans posed next to their idols (digitally) in a photo booth, yelled K-pop’s national anthem into prop mics, and hit the dance floor with perfect renditions of LE SSERAFIM’s "Perfect Nights" choreography. 

Before heading out, visitors could leave a mark of their own on the exhibit: after writing a message to their favorite artist via pastel Post-its and baby No. 2 pencils, fans loudly and proudly displayed them on the walls.

HYBE’s Story Is Just Getting Started

GRAMMY Museum's HYBE Exhibit

According to another timeline, the story so far has three chapters. There was the era of Big Hit Entertainment, when BTS came into the picture; then, the establishment of HYBE, with its many labels. Finally, as the U.S. and Latin America enter the fold, we’re in the end game. Representing this future is L.A.-based girl group KATSEYE, a collaboration with Geffen Records and the most recent inclusion to HYBE’s roster.

But K-pop hasn’t entirely let go of its "K" just yet, if the special guests for the exhibit’s launch were any indication. As the sun set over the GRAMMY Museum’s rooftop terrace, rookie boy group TWS kicked things off; before performing high-energy five songs back to back, the six boys charmed the audience by cutely cruising through a moderated conversation in English and Korean. 

As the exhibit reveals, there’s a reason HYBE — and K-pop — went global in the first place. On top of the spectacle, their success has everything to do with the work that goes into making the effort seem effortless. Audiences root for real people, and that's what makes them keep coming back.

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GRAMMY Museum Partners With HYBE For K-Pop Exhibit graphic featuring artist names and exhibit opening date

Graphic courtesy of the GRAMMY Museum

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GRAMMY Museum Partners With HYBE For New K-Pop Exhibit 'HYBE: We Believe In Music' Opening Aug. 2

Running Aug. 2 through Sept. 15, the GRAMMY Museum exhibit showcases artifacts from superstar HYBE artists, including BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, ENHYPEN, LE SSERAFIM, and many more.

GRAMMYs/Jul 9, 2024 - 01:09 pm

The GRAMMY Museum joins forces with HYBE to present its newest exhibit, HYBE: We Believe In Music, A GRAMMY Museum Exhibit. This interactive exhibit chronicles the history and impact of HYBE, and showcases its legacy of unparalleled innovation and creativity as a trend-setting global entertainment brand.

The exhibit opens on Aug. 2 in downtown Los Angeles and features spotlight moments with K-pop stars BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, ENHYPEN, LE SSERAFIM, and many more. "HYBE: We Believe In Music" runs through Sept.15. The exhibit will kick off on Aug. 1 with "Global Spin Live: TWS," a program featuring a moderated conversation with K-pop group TWS, followed by a performance.

The exhibit traces HYBE's evolution and influence by showcasing instantly recognizable artifacts from its roster of artists, creators, and fans. The displays notably feature original outfits worn in iconic music videos such as "Yet To Come (The Most Beautiful Moment)" by BTS, "MAESTRO" by SEVENTEEN, "Sugar Rush Ride" by TOMORROW X TOGETHER, "Sweet Venom" by ENHYPEN, and "EASY" by LE SSERAFIM. HYBE: We Believe In Music also boasts accessories and performance gear donned by ZICO, fromis_9, BOYNEXTDOOR, TWS, &TEAM, and ILLIT. The exhibit marks the first time these artifacts will be on display together in one location.

Other highlights include interactive sing-along and dance rooms, a dedicated Fan Section celebrating the endless support between HYBE artists and their fandoms, a Mono to Immersive room featuring BTS's 2022 GRAMMYs performance of "Butter," and a Photoism Booth that allows visitors to pose alongside their favorite K-pop artists.  The GRAMMY Museum exhibit will also feature exclusive video content with producers, artists, music videos, and more.

"HYBE and their artists represent the present and future of the global music landscape, and our goal with this exhibit is to deepen the appreciation and respect for its creators and performers," says Michael Sticka, President/CEO of the GRAMMY Museum. "HYBE has contributed to creating a playground of innovation that inspires fandoms that transcend age, gender, geography and beyond. The GRAMMY Museum is thrilled to provide a space where fans can express their love for K-pop and feel closer to their favorite idols."

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HYBE Chief Operating Officer Taeho Kim added, "Putting out an exhibition that captures HYBE's journey is a new experience for us. We're very excited about this partnership with GRAMMY Museum, and we look forward to welcoming music fans who visit the museum to enjoy and connect with our historical pieces."

The exhibit highlights the roots of HYBE's meteoric rise. In 2005, South Korean producer, composer, and songwriter Bang Si-Hyuk, known as "hitman" Bang, changed the trajectory of Korean pop music by launching the record label Big Hit Entertainment. He soon signed a talented 16-year-old rapper named RM, which became the first step in creating the label's groundbreaking boy band — BTS. With the group's global success, "hitman" Bang and Big Hit Entertainment became known as musical trailblazers and record industry innovators. Big Hit Entertainment has now evolved into HYBE, which only continues to break boundaries in music and beyond.

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