Following GRAMMY U’s membership expansion, the Recording Academy is thrilled to welcome the 2024-25 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 initiatives and diverse programs for more than 6,500 members worldwide.

Founded in 2006, GRAMMY U supported college students pursuing careers in music for nearly two decades. As of last Fall, the program’s membership was extended not just to college students but also individuals aged 18 to 29 years old who are hoping to work in the music industry.

This exciting expansion means that GRAMMY U now offers more opportunities than ever before. The program’s latest class of Reps is eager to guide you. Continue reading to get to know the 2024-25 class of GRAMMY U Representatives.

Jasmine Gordon | Atlanta

Jasmine is studying at Spelman College as a Comparative Women’s Studies 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?

I am particularly excited about the opportunity to connect with other like-minded GRAMMY U Representatives and to build meaningful relationships with peers who share my passion for music.

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

A music industry professional who truly inspires me is Jessie Allen, GRAMMY U’s Managing Director. Her unwavering dedication and the passion she pours into the GRAMMY U program are truly admirable and motivate me to make a meaningful impact in this field.

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

R&B has always held a special place in my heart; it’s a genre that speaks to the soul and captures the depth of human emotion in a way that few others can. The rich history and evolution of R&B inspire me both personally and professionally.

Connect with Jasmine:

Email: grammyu.atlanta@grammy.com

IG: @jazzy.gord

Jim Slife | Chicago

Jim is studying at DePaul University as a Communications and Media 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 so excited to collaborate and get to know more GRAMMY U members both inside and outside of the Chicago chapter. I would love to hear member’s thoughts and ideas on how we can further engage with the music community, so please do not hesitate to reach out to me!

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

In today's music scene, I love to see how artists continue to push beyond the categories of genre and blend different influences to make their own unique sound. From Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” to Clairo's "Charm,” I admire the way artists are not afraid to combine genres of the past and future to create some of the most exciting albums of this year.

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

I am so inspired by my fellow GRAMMY U members and alumni. Seeing young professionals grow and shine as they take the initial steps into their careers is very motivating to me and makes me so thankful to be part of such a wonderful community!

Connect with Jim:

Email: grammyu.chicago@grammy.com

IG: @jim.slife

Adyna Silverberg | Florida

Adyna 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?

My favorite genres of music are a tie between pop and dance music. Pop music will never get old to me because I’ve grown up listening to it my whole life and it has shaped me into the person and artist I am today. Recently, I’ve grown a love for EDM because it always puts me in a great mood and has created a vibrant community.

What is your dream career in the music industry and why?

Currently, my dream career in the music industry would be in A&R because I love finding and listening to new artists, and I hope to shape them into the artist they want to become. I have the most experience in this field, but I am very interested in exploring other avenues in the music industry such as artist or business management, marketing, and live events!

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

I would love to plan a GRAMMY U event centered around John Summit because he seemingly gained a social media following overnight and his “work hard, play hard” mindset is extremely inspiring. In his most recent album, “Comfort in Chaos,” he sonically explained all of the ups and downs in life while traveling on tour, working on new music, and prioritizing mental health. There are countless students who look up to him as an artist, producer, and record label owner especially in Miami.

Connect with Adyna:

Email: grammyu.florida@grammy.com

IG: @adynablair

Joslyn Bowman  | Los Angeles

Joslyn is in her third year at the USC Thornton School of Music as a Music Business major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

Recently, I have been obsessed with listening to folk music! I have been listening to a lot of Noah Kahan because his lyrics always tell such meaningful stories, and his music has the power to reach so many people’s hearts around the world in a way that I’ve never seen before. 

What is your dream career in the music industry and why?

My dream career in the music industry is to become a lawyer. When I started studying the music industry, I became aware of the many injustices and problems that artists and other professionals face. I hope to use my knowledge to support music industry professionals who have faced unfair treatment and to emphasize the importance of education regarding the rules and laws surrounding this industry. 

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

I would love to plan an event centered around Sylvia Rhone and all of the incredible work that she’s done within the music industry. As the first black female CEO of a record label, Sylvia Rhone has been a trailblazer for women and people of color in the music industry, and she has proved that anyone can be successful regardless of their background which is so inspiring to me. Hearing about her journey and the obstacles she had to overcome would be a dream come true!

Connect with Joslyn:

Email: grammyu.la@grammy.com  

IG: @joslynnleila

Shannon Conte | Memphis

Shannon is a Business Management major at Tulane University. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

I love R&B and all the genres that fit under the umbrella of R&B. The genre constantly surprises me and keeps me finding more musicians I enjoy. I think I resonate most with the lyrics of R&B songs. I also find myself drawn to the vocals more-so than any other genre. 

What is your dream career in the music industry and why?

I aspire to work in artist management, starting my own management company and growing it from the ground up. I believe my unique skill set and personality will aid me in becoming a successful artist manager. 

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

I am inspired most by Julie Greenwald, a Tulane alumni who found immense success as a music industry executive. Her charisma and drive has paved the way for aspiring female music professionals, hence why she is such an idol to me. 

Connect with Shannon:

Email: grammyu.memphis@grammy.com

IG: @sconte_

Adren Gilmore | Nashville

Adren is studying Commercial Music at Tennessee State University. 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 looking forward to expanding my network of peers as a GRAMMY U Representative this year. As a member of the next generation of music industry leaders, I will have the opportunity to make firsthand connections with an expansive and like-minded community in this role.

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

My favorite musical genre is funk because it emphasizes grooves and rhythmic basslines. Funk has a rich history as it emerged from post-Jim Crow Black America, symbolizing Black Pride and "Unapologetic Blackness," which inspires my music and artistic identity.

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

If I could plan a Grammy U event around any creator, it would undoubtedly be the late musical icon Prince. His career is a masterclass in tenacity and smart business decisions, offering invaluable lessons for today's artists and GRAMMY U members alike.

Connect with Adren:

Email: grammyu.nashville@grammy.com

IG: @adrengilmore

India Sahai | New York

India is studying at Fordham University to pursue her masters in Media Management. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

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

As one of this year’s GRAMMY U Representatives, I look forward to collaborating with my fellow Reps to curate a memorable year filled with exciting new events and opportunities for our members! 

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

My favorite genre is singer-songwriter, which is a versatile style that focuses on personal, emotional storytelling through music. I appreciate when singer-songwriters construct a narrative that builds through the verses of the song.

What is your dream career in the music industry and why?

My dream career in the industry is to work in A&R at a record label. I would love to be able to scout and discover artists and then provide the support needed to develop and grow throughout their entire career.

Connect with India:

Email: grammyu.ny@grammy.com

IG: @indiasahai

Jenia Viles | Pacific Northwest

Jenia is studying at Seattle University as a Business Management 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 beyond excited to continue cultivating our passionate community full of emerging music industry creatives and professionals. I’m looking forward to building meaningful relationships with my Pacific Northwest Chapter members and with my fellow Representatives. It’s going to be so great to connect with other people who are interested in finding work within the music industry!

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

I listen to many different genres of music, so it’s hard to pick one (how original…ha!), but if I had to choose, I’d definitely say Neo-soul because it’s a fusion of my favorite musical genres: R&B, Jazz, and Hip-Hop. Listening to Neo-soul puts my mind at ease! Some notable Neo-soul artists that I love listening to include Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, D’Angelo, Musiq Soulchild, and Maxwell, to name a few.

What is your dream career in the music industry and why?

I’m still figuring out my dream career in the music industry, though I’ve always been passionate about the creative production side of the music industry as I have always been fascinated with the artistic processes of music producers such as the Neptunes or Salaam Remi. I’ve also considered the A&R side of the industry and would be interested in working with and forming connections with an artist or working directly for a label.

Connect with Jenia:

Email: grammyu.pnw@grammy.com

IG: @niadfv

Jada Bromberg  | Philadelphia

Jada is studying at Temple University with majors in Audio & Live Entertainment and Communication Studies. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

Indie pop is my favorite genre because of its simplicity and the artists' emphasis on storytelling through lyrics. I’m particularly drawn to songs that resonate with me on a personal level.

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

Singer-songwriter Anson Seabra inspires me with his raw, emotional lyrics. For many years, his music has been a source of comfort and strength, helping me get through some of my most challenging times.

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

I would plan a GRAMMY U event featuring PLESTED, a singer and songwriter renowned for co-writing songs for artists such as Lewis Capaldi, Little Mix, Kygo, James Arthur, and Anne-Marie. I am eager to learn more about his career — both his songwriting work for other artists and his own accomplishments as a talented musician.

Connect with Jada:

Email: grammyu.philly@grammy.com

IG: @jadareesemusic

Izzy Hory | San Francisco

Izzy is in her second year at the University of California, Berkeley as a Political Science 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?

As a GRAMMY U Representative, I’m excited to plan and take part in both local and national events, showcasing the countless opportunities available in the music industry to students and non-students alike. I’m also looking forward to facilitating GRAMMY U SoundChecks and collaborating with the amazing team that drives this organization forward.

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

Indie music is my favorite genre. It captures so much raw talent and passion. I can listen to it anytime, anywhere, and constantly discover new artists. I love the genuine energy of the indie scene, and seeing these artists perform live in small, intimate venues is an experience you just can’t beat.

What is your dream career in the music industry and why?

While I'm still exploring what careers the music industry offers, I've always been drawn to the role of a music supervisor. I have a playlist for every mood, moment, and memory, and I'd love the opportunity to channel that passion into curating soundtracks. Music has such a powerful impact, and it would be incredible to create a soundtrack that highlights underrated artists while helping execute a story. 

Connect with Izzy:

Email: grammyu.sf@grammy.com

IG: @izzyhh__

Ily Aguilar | Texas

Ily is studying at Texas State University as a Public Relations 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?

As a GRAMMY U Representative, I am particularly excited about coordinating GRAMMY U SoundChecks. Over the past two years, every SoundChecks I've attended has been an invaluable learning experience, deepening my understanding of the music industry. I'm definitely thrilled for the Texas Chapter to experience a new year of incredible artists!

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

A music industry professional who inspires me is Meg Miller, Lainey Wilson’s tour manager. After hearing her story and advice at the 2023 GRAMMY U Fall Summit in Nashville, I’ve been in awe of her ever since. Tour management is a career path in the music industry that I’m particularly interested in, and Meg Miller truly embodies the qualities of a girl boss and a successful young professional. 

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

While I consider myself an enthusiast of every music genre, my favorite has to be Alternative/Folk. With artists like Noah Kahan, Hozier, Mt. Joy, and The Moss frequently topping my playlists, I definitely gravitate towards the Alternative/Folk sound. This genre resonates with me on a deep level, and I truly connect with the passion behind the music. 

Connect with Ily:

Email: grammyu.texas@grammy.com

IG: @ily.aguilar

Shaneel Young | Washington D.C.

Shaneel is studying at Howard University as a Business Marketing 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?

This year, I’m excited to see GRAMMY U continue its growth, especially with the expansion of membership going into its second year of programming. I’m also eagerly anticipating GRAMMY Week 2025 — after last year's unforgettable experience, I can't wait for what’s to come!

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

My favorite genre of music is R&B. As someone who grew up in church listening and singing to soulful gospel music, R&B shares some of those same nostalgic elements.

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 Up Close and Personal event with Coco Jones. While she is a current hit R&B vocalist and actor, Coco has been transparent about her history of challenges in the music industry. I believe sharing her journey with GRAMMY U Members would be extremely inspiring and stand true to the fact that persistence and patience are key!

Connect with Shaneel:

Email: grammyu.dc@grammy.com

IG: @seasonsofshai

Della Anderson | National Membership

Della is studying Songwriting at Belmont University along with minors in Public Relations and Fashion Studies. This is her second 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 getting to meet as many current and future GRAMMY U Members as I can. While I love the events we hold, it's the relationships I've made throughout my time in GRAMMY U that have changed my life the most.

What is your favorite genre of music and why?

I love the singer-songwriter genre because as a songwriter myself, I have a deep appreciation for the bones of a song. Anyone that can make a guitar and vocals seem compelling is an exceptional storyteller and musician in my eyes.

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

I would absolutely love to do a GRAMMY U event centered around either Chappell Roan or Sabrina Carpenter because it’s empowering to see other women succeeding in music, and watching them both grow into their current look and style has been captivating to me. I also appreciate live vocals that blow my socks off, and I think they both knock it out of the park.

Connect with Della:

Email: grammyu.membership@grammy.com

IG: @dellalewismusic

Sam Kopec | National Projects

Sam is a Music Business major at the University of Miami. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your dream career in the music industry and why?

I aspire to become an entertainment lawyer or work in the publishing area of the music industry. I find intellectual property rights and regulations extremely interesting and aim to use my knowledge to advocate for artists as technology continues to evolve. 

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

I am most inspired by music industry executive, Jody Gerson. She was the first female CEO of a major music publisher, and her work included managing some of the most expansive and impactful song catalogs. I appreciate her ambition, focus on building authentic relationships, and appreciation for the songwriters and composers who drive the music industry forward.

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

I would love to spotlight Jack Antonoff in a GRAMMY U event! He is an eleven time GRAMMY-winning producer working with some of the biggest stars in the industry and some of my favorite artists including Taylor Swift, Lorde, and Lana Del Rey. I would be interested to hear how his approach differs while working with each artist to let their vision and unique sound shine through as well as his strategy for balancing work with own band, Bleachers. I believe Antonoff’s immense technical knowledge and creativity would provide valuable insight to emerging artists.

Connect with Sam:

Email: grammyu.projects@grammy.com

IG: @sam_kopec

Did you know that among all GRAMMY U members, songwriting and performance are some of the most sought after fields of study? This playlist dedicates a space to hear what these members are creating today!

The GRAMMY U Mixtape, now available for your listening pleasure, highlights the creations and fresh ideas that members are bringing to this industry directly on the Recording Academy's Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music pages. Our goal is to celebrate GRAMMY U members, as well as the time and effort they put into making original music — from the songwriting process to the final production of the track.

Each month, we accept submissions and feature 15 to 25 songs that match each month’s theme. This playlist is a culmination of all your travels this summer, with songs spanning multiple genres, from country tunes out of Nashville to catchy beats from South America. So, what’s stopping you? Press play on GRAMMY U’s Mixtape and listen now on Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music.

Want to be featured on the next playlist? Submit your songs today! We are currently accepting submissions for songs of all genres for consideration for our September playlist. Whether you write pop, rock, hip-hop, jazz, or classical, we want to hear from you. Music must be written and/or produced by the member (an original song) and you must be able to submit a Spotify, Apple Music and/or Amazon Music link to the song. Artists must be a GRAMMY U member to submit.

About GRAMMY U:

GRAMMY U is a program that connects aspiring professionals and creatives ages 18-29 with the music industry's brightest and most talented minds. We provide a community for emerging professionals and creatives in addition to various opportunities and tools necessary to start a career in music. Throughout the program year, events and initiatives touch on all facets of the industry, including business, technology, and the creative process.

As part of the Recording Academy's mission to ensure the recorded arts remain a thriving part of our shared cultural heritage, GRAMMY U establishes the necessary foundation for music’s next generation to flourish.

Not a member, but want to submit to our playlist? Apply for GRAMMY U Membership here.

Former GRAMMY U Reps Heather Howard, Sophie Griffiths and Samantha Kopec contributed to this article.

How can you write a song, when you have nothing to sing about? One trusty well to return to is life on the road;  the musical canon is filled with odes to whizzing highway dividers, beds in strange places and, on occasion, a deteriorating home life.

The buzzy and prolific singer/songwriter Remi Wolf just folded these experiences into Big Ideas — her second full-length album, and one born of perpetual travel, transit and transition. (And, it should be said: her Carmen Sandiego traversals led her to NYC’s 2024 GRAMMY U Conference.)

"Well into my 20s, it was like a second puberty, because essentially, I was reborn as this touring musician," the thoughtful and loquacious indie-popper tells GRAMMY.com, over Zoom from her rehearsal space. (Even then, she's in motion, ducking from room to room to evade clamorous comings and goings.)

She evokes her breakout 2021 debut album: "I'd never toured like that before. My whole entire life felt so new after Juno was released."

This led to a white-hot writing streak. Big Ideas' highlights, like advance singles "Toro" and "Alone in Miami," directly address change and upheaval. Goes the former: "Dancing around and spilling wine/ You look good in my hotel robe." Goes the latter: "Met up with Maine, bought cocaine/ Clothes in the lobby waiting for me."

"There's no frills in that s—," Wolf says. "They're quite literally about real life." Read on for a full interview with Wolf about Big Ideas — a locus of that life, in all its nuances and dimensions.

This interview has been edited for clarity.

I love how funky and rhythmic 'Big Ideas' is. Which rhythms from the musical canon got you going? Are you a Purdie head? A Dan head? 

Oh, all of the above. I love a Purdie shuffle. The Purdie shuffle is a pretty legendary groove. I'm a huge fan of Steely Dan. I went to music college; I feel like as a music school student, you kind of have to love Steely Dan. Well, some of the kids choose to hate them, but I chose to love them. 

But yeah, I love a funky groove, a funky beat. I also like simple s—, but we love syncopation in this household. 

What'd you grow up listening to on that front? 

Honestly, not much. I feel like as a young kid, I would just listen to what my parents were listening to, and my dad listened to a lot of '80s classic rock, and my mom really liked Prince.  

And then, also, my first album I ever owned was Speak Now by Lindsay Lohan, which is a completely different direction, and I was about eight when I got that album. 

I didn't know she made music. 
 
She had a music career. It was brief, but it was mighty, truly. She had all the best songwriters in the industry at the time working on this album. So honestly, even though it wasn't the pinnacle of musicianship, the writing was really good. Great songs. 

I just flashed back to Hilary Duff jewel cases in grade school. 

Oh, yeah, that's another classic, but I was a little bit more alternative than that. Lindsay Lohan was kind of on more of a pop-punk, like emo front-facing type of songwriting and energy. A little bit more like Alanis Morissette vibes. 

If I ever encounter a Lohan song in the wild, I'll remember your recommendation. 

When I was a high schooler, that's kind of when I started really listening to a bunch of staff that wasn't playing in my house. And that's when I got into Stevie Wonder and the Beatles and Cake. 

I ride for Cake. Great band. 

I ride for Cake, too. Honestly, they're one of my favorite bands of all time. I don't know, I feel super similar to them sometimes. Their lyrics are so wacky and sad, kind of — and bizarre, but they're so funky, and the songs are just great, but they're weird.

Take the readers through the span of time between your first album, 'Juno,' up to this sophomore album. What seed was planted? 

I released Juno at the end of 2021, and I guess the seed that was birthed after that was that I've essentially been on tour ever since. 

This new album, Big Ideas, is kind of the product of: I would go out on tour and come home for a week at a time, because I was on back-to-back-to-back tours. I went on 10 tours in one year; I was only home for about six weeks of all of 2022. And then, going into 2023, I kept touring, and kept doing the same thing. 

Watch: GRAMMY Museum Spotlight: Remi Wolf 

This album is a collection of all these moments and memories, and getting really focused, short amounts of time with me getting home and kind of exploding songwriting-wise — then, going back on tour and building up s— to talk about, and then exploding once again. 

There were about five concentrated week-and-a-half to two-week-long periods of writing that became this album. 

Do you get a charge out of touring? I couldn't imagine doing it again. 

Yeah. I think that there is an adrenaline that I like about it. I like traveling. I like seeing different cities, even if it's for a couple hours. I really like that. 

I like the communal aspect of it. I like getting really close to people and having a routine, to be honest. It's the most routine time of my life. Other than that, when I'm home, I'm just all over the place and doing a bunch of s—, which also has its perks. 

But I don't know, there's something about waking up and doing the same thing every day that kind of is nice for me. And it's cool to be able to just focus on one thing, getting to the next city and playing the show and making people happy. 

What about your life disappearing temporarily? Leaving a partner, your houseplants… 

No, that's really difficult. I luckily don't have a partner right now, but I think that tour is really capable of ruining a lot of relationships, unless you've got a really strong one where they understand the lifestyle and everything. But I've had many houseplants die. It's actually really sad. 

Your life just kind of is on pause. It's like a time machine, or a time capsule. Especially living in L.A. where the weather's the same every single day, you come home, and it's exactly the same as when you left the city. 

Once the emotional and conceptual pieces were on the floor, how did you assemble 'Big Ideas?' 

There are so many iterations of what it could have been. Because like I said, I had five two-week long sections of writing a f— ton of songs. And I'm not kidding, I wrote full albums within those weeks. I would be hunkered. 

I had one week in L.A. where it was five days, and we wrote 10 songs. And then I had another week in L.A. We wrote seven songs. And I had another week in New York, and we wrote nine songs. And then another week in New York, and we wrote 12 songs. And then another week finally back in L.A., and we wrote four songs that time. 

But essentially, I was kind of just doing what felt right. Until I felt like we had an entire album that was cohesive but expansive in its palette, I kept writing. And then finally, at a certain point, I was like, OK, I feel like we have the record. 

But there were moments where I was like, oh, I just wrote an album. I don't have to do anything else. And then a month would go by and I'd be like, I need to do more. 

In terms of choosing the songs, I think I was drawn to the songs that felt the most real to me — that continued to feel the most exciting and real to me. 

Define "real" in this context. 

That is a very difficult question to answer, and I think it is such a gut thing. It's beyond language. I don't know how to describe that. I don't know. If I feel invested. There are certain songs that you write and you like them, but you don't have that same feeling of investment in them. 

Does this really need to be heard? Does anybody need this? 

Yeah. Or: Do I need this? Honestly, it's so inexplicable. 

Do you ever try to work the songwriting muscle of making something specific, universal? Is that part of your calculus? 

Typically, it's not, but there's one song that I tried to do it on very intentionally: "Soup." 

[I had] the intention of making it a song that was built for an arena in terms of the sonics and the expansiveness of the drums and the four-on-the-floor. In my head, I was like, OK, I want this song to play, and then you see the arena with the people pumping their fists and feet. 

I think I'd recently seen Coldplay at Wembley Stadium, and I was like, Holy s—, this is so wild. Their stuff is so arena, stadium-bound. I was inspired by essentially the four-on-the-floor feel — hearing the reverb in the rafters of an arena like that. 

Going into writing that song, I was like, this is the song where it would make sense for me to be blunt and universal with my lyrics. And I think it was a cool experiment and honestly quite vulnerable for me, because I think sometimes I shy away from that type of lyric writing, whether it be out of just wanting to be a little bit more artsy. 

Sometimes I think it's fear-based, in the sense of: I want to hide, I want to be able to be the only one to really know what I'm talking about sometimes. And I think with "Soup," I kind of just let it fly and let that universality shine through a little bit more. 

You don't need to know what songs mean all the time. You mentioned the Beatles: John sang, "Yellow matter custard, dripping from a dead dog's eye." 

Yeah. It's syllables, and imagery. This s— can be anything you want to be, and I always try to remember that. 

What's coming up in your musical life? 

I'm going on tour in the fall; today is our first day of rehearsals. We're starting to put together a big show. More travel, more motion. I never stop moving, essentially. Hopefully I'll be writing more soon.

With the newly expanded eligibility for GRAMMY U membership, the GRAMMY U mentorship program has also shifted significantly this year. For the very first time, the mentorship program timeline lasted for an entire year, rather than being split into two semesters. The longer timeframe allowed the mentorship pairs to meet more frequently, take on bigger projects, and develop deeper connections.  

Through the program, GRAMMY U members from around the world receive one-on-one guidance from seasoned music industry professionals. Mentors and mentees have the flexibility to select their specific track within the music business, including performance, songwriting/composing, marketing, or the general music industry. Pairs are aligned as closely as possible, and match mentees with mentors in roles that reflect their interests. 

With over 600 pairings across the 12 Recording Academy Chapters, hundreds of members had the chance to work on amazing projects or participate in once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, all thanks to their mentors. Read on to hear about six outstanding pairs from the 2023-24 GRAMMY U Mentorship Program. 

Andre Gibson | Mentor | Chicago Chapter 

Lylajean Bariso | Mentee | Chicago Chapter 

Andre Gibson and Lylajean Bariso were paired to focus on songwriting and vocal performance. Gibson is currently the President and Owner of Chiat Records, while Bariso majors in creative writing at Northwestern University. 

During this year’s mentorship program, Bariso had the unique opportunity to advance her music career. Under Gibson’s guidance, she participated in her first professional studio recording session and registered with a performing rights organization, enabling her to copyright her music. 

Although Bariso is not enrolled in her school’s music program, music is one of her most passionate hobbies. After participating in this year's mentorship program with Gibson, her perspective has shifted. 

"I've felt discouraged from pursuing music as a full-time career for most of my life, even though it's definitely a dream that's out there and high up for me," Bariso says. "However, I really appreciated that Andre took me seriously as a musical artist and supported the idea of me doing this as a career and following the same practices as professionals in the industry."

Steve Lane | Mentor | Florida Chapter 

Zayna JeBailey | Mentee | Florida Chapter

Zayna JeBailey, a music business and entertainment industries graduate from the University of Miami, was paired with Steve Lane, Executive Director of the Florida Songwriters Association. At the start of the program, JeBailey hoped to gain a deeper understanding about the industry through hands-on experience; with Lane as a mentor, she accomplished that goal. 

Over the past few months, JeBailey has worked on the Florida Songwriters Association podcast, assisting with everything from setting up equipment to filming. Additionally, she helped organize the 5th Annual Florida Songwriters Association Workshop, hosted at Full Sail University. The workshop offered networking opportunities and featured  panels with multiple industry professionals. 

"Graduating with my bachelor's back in December left me feeling a bit lost about where to go next," says JeBailey, who will continue to work for the Florida Songwriters Association on projects for youth and young adults in Central Florida. She'll also continue to work on the organization's podcast and next year's workshop. "My mentor's advice and guidance this year, and the connections I have made while working with him, have provided a space for me to discover my next endeavors."

Rachel Levy | Mentor | Los Angeles Chapter 

Joshya Gupta | Mentee | Los Angeles Chapter 

Joshya Gupta, a music industry major at the University of California, Los Angeles, was paired with Rachel Levy, the Executive Vice President of Film Music at Universal Pictures. Acknowledging the significant impact mentors have on shaping young minds, Levy reflects on how mentorship shaped her own early experiences in the industry. 

"I was also lucky enough to have a few mentors when I started out in this business that really had an effect on me," Levy says. “So, it’s been great to be able to do that regularly for the college students I have been connected with."

During the mentorship program, Gupta visited Levy's office at NBCUniversal and shadowed her during her day-to-day routines. During this experience, Gupta gained valuable insights into the world of film music and the various responsibilities associated with the role. Through Levy's guidance, Gupta successfully secured her dream internship at NBCUniversal. 

"My goal is to work in film music and my mentor has been instrumental in propelling me towards that aspiration," says Gupta. "Beyond mentorship, she has facilitated opportunities for me to connect with her colleagues, broadening my network and deepening my understanding of the field."

Corynne Burrows | Mentor | Los Angeles Chapter 

Jaida Brown | Mentee | Los Angeles Chapter  

Hoping to sharpen her skills as a confident content creator, Jaida Brown, a music business student at The Los Angeles Film School, was paired with Corynne Burrows, the founder & CEO of Midas Touch Management.  

"I have learned how important it is to surround yourself with people who have a constant desire to grow and to have fresh perspectives from others to be able to help you see all sides of situations," Burrows says.

During the mentorship program, Burrows and Brown focused on taking Brown’s career as a performing artist to the next level. Creating her press kit and logo were among the projects the pair tackled throughout the year, ultimately transforming Brown’s brand as an artist. 

 Ben Raznick | Mentor | San Francisco Chapter 

Jack Bunch | Mentee | San Francisco Chapter 

Over in the San Francisco Chapter, Jack Bunch, a rising sophomore at the University of California, Berkeley, Bunch was matched with Ben Raznick, a Governor for the San Francisco Chapter Board of the Recording Academy. With the help of Raznick, Bunch was able to realize that his aspirations within the industry are far more attainable than he originally believed. 

"Ben helped me realize the realities I look up to aren’t so far away. I listen to dozens of self-produced, prodigious, and seemingly thriving musicians, and I’ve felt far removed from them in the past,"  Bunch reflects. "Now that I’ve begun taking the time to develop skills, set goals, and take tangible steps, I know I can become the artist I want to be."

Raznick also gleaned insight from his mentee during the program. Upon listening to Bunch’s EP, Raznick learned about music tools that he had "never heard of before," which opened his eyes to some of the latest trends and techniques within the fast-paced industry. 

"I felt inspired by Jack’s engagement in our meetings," says Raznick. "It was rewarding to spend time with a young artist that reminded me of myself when I began exploring music as a career." 

Jake Roggenbuck | Mentor | Nashville Chapter 

Anisa Utilla | Mentee | Nashville Chapter 

Anisa Utilla, a human and organizational development major at Vanderbilt University, joined the GRAMMY U mentorship program to gain hands-on insight into the music business, which her formal education lacked. She was paired with Jake Roggenbuck, the Senior Manager of Production at Universal Music Group in Nashville. 

"Music acts as a universal language, bridging people together. I knew I wanted to be a part of that with more of a business lens," says Utilla. "I have a dream to become a record label executive, but through my classes and internet research, it was hard to understand what the day-to-day work in a label is actually like. Jake showed me that. Through his mentorship, I learned things I couldn't learn in a classroom setting." 

Roggenbuck has been actively involved in the GRAMMY U Mentorship program since 2022. He notes that serving as a mentor is a reciprocal experience, as he gains valuable knowledge from his mentees as well. 

"I have learned so many lessons from my mentees and can honestly say I get as much out of the program as I give," says Roggenbuck. The biggest takeaway for me is the enthusiasm and passion that my mentees have. It brings me back to a time when I dreamt of working in the music industry and is a reminder of how lucky I am to have a career I’m passionate about." 

The GRAMMY U mentorship program allows members to gain invaluable guidance from an experienced music industry professional from multiple tracks within the industry. Results from the program include expanded networks, newfound industry advice, career opportunities, and more. If you are interested in becoming a mentee or mentor for the 2024-25 GRAMMY U mentorship program, be sure to keep an eye out for applications opening in Fall 2024. 

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GRAMMY U members got a special treat from Tori Kelly when the singer (and Sing-er) took the stage for the first ever GRAMMY U "Unwrapped" event on May 15. Held at The Novo in downtown Los Angeles, the event brought together fans, music industry professionals, and students for a night that dove deep into the creative process behind Kelly’s brand new record, TORI. Amazon Music and Mastercard were participating sponsors for this event. 

Joined on stage by producer and collaborator Tenroc, Kelly took fans through a journey of several tracks from her new record, from inception to completion. Kelly discussed each track, aided by a video presentation and using stems to highlight special production techniques, musical intricacies, and cool little Easter eggs. The showcase was followed by a round of live questions from the audience, where Kelly dished about everything from her voiceover work to her pre-studio rituals, before grabbing a guitar and performing two new tracks: "High Water" and "Oceans." 

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Here’s a glimpse into all the songs Kelly and Tenroc featured, from "Missin' U" to "Spruce."

"thing u do”

When it came time to make Tori, Kelly told the audience that she wanted to focus on "songs that make [you] wanna dance," and "songs that [anyone] can belt out in the car." Mainly collaborating just with Tenroc, Bellion, Clyde Lawrence, and Jordan Cohen, Kelly put together a record that's strongly influenced by late '90s and early '00s pop, with references to chirping Sidekick phones and plenty of nostalgic vocal effects. 

"missin u" in particular is interesting, not just because it was inspired by Craig David and the U.K. Garage sound — with Kelly taking special care to pronounce "garage" in true British fashion at the live event — but also because it was released in both its original form and as an R&B edit. The latter version is the one Kelly and Tenroc highlighted at the event, going through Kelly's vocal tracks, and really digging in on the remix's bridge, which Kelly wrote just for that track and recorded in her home studio.

Getting to see Tenroc's Logic Pro work on the big screen seemed to mesmerize everyone in attendance, with most marveling at the ease he seemed to have flicking through the dozens of stems, layers, and plug-ins. 

"missin u"

When it came time to make TORI, Kelly told the audience that she wanted to focus on "songs that make [you] wanna dance," and "songs that [anyone] can belt out in the car." Mainly collaborating just with Tenroc, Bellion, Clyde Lawrence, and Jordan Cohen, Kelly put together a record that's strongly influenced by late '90s and early '00s pop, with references to chirping Sidekick phones and plenty of nostalgic vocal effects.

In particular, "missin u" is interesting, not just because it was inspired by Craig David and the U.K. Garage sound — with Kelly taking special care to pronounce "garage" in true British fashion at the live event — but also because it was released in both its original form and as an R&B edit. The latter version is the one Kelly and Tenroc highlighted at the event, going through Kelly's vocal tracks, and really digging in on the remix's bridge, which Kelly wrote just for that track and recorded in her home studio.

Getting to see Tenroc's Logic Pro work on the big screen seemed to mesmerize everyone in attendance, with most marveling at the ease he seemed to have flicking through the dozens of stems, layers, and plug-ins. 

"shelter"

Talking about "shelter," Kelly described a sort of shorthand she'd developed with Tenroc, after working closely together over the past few years. She said they're at the point where they can communicate with "sounds" and "telepathy," a benefit she attributes to not switching producers throughout the making of her record.

Tenroc and Kelly used "shelter" to talk about the comping process, or the act of combining the best parts of different takes into a single track. Kelly said she typically does about five takes of a vocal track, all in different personas: one normal, one shyer, one wild, one with a lot of vocal runs, and one that's sort of a wild card. She can keep each take separate in her mind that way, remembering how she recorded a vowel slightly better in one take or gave a line a little grittier vocal texture in another. It's not something everyone can do, though, and Tenroc said it's truly amazing to witness in person — a fact the live audience could attest to. 

For Kelly, a lot of making TORI, was about exploring different tones and textures of her voice, she said. She'd sometimes start by doing an impression of a singer like Rihanna and Willow in one run, and then blend the inspired version with her own, stretching herself vocally. She demonstrated that kind of thing live at the show, doing off-the-cuff runs of bits of "Shelter" to talk about how they changed the way the word "plate" in the chorus. 

Tenroc also showed off how he used the Little Alterboy plug-in to alter Kelly's voice, turning the rap in "shelter," as well as the "you, you, you, you, you" bit into what sounds like a deep masculine voice, even though those lines were originally laid down by Kelly herself. 

"spruce"

When "spruce" was first being envisioned by Kelly and co-writer Casey Smith, it was a song called "truce" about making up with your loved one before going out on the town. Kelly had been wanting to make a "getting ready, girly song," though, and Bellion came into the studio one day with the idea of merging the two ideas in what became "spruce." 

Written over a loop made by Tenroc, "spruce" — featuring Kim Chaewon of K-Pop group LE SSERAFIM — is emblematic, Kelly said, of her effort to let go, change, and try new things in the studio. The production was inspired by Jai Paul and uses sidechain compression, which is when the level of one instrument or sound triggers a compressor to control the level of another sound. The crowd clearly seemed taken with the sound when Tenroc played examples of how it was used in the track, which he said he made in part with the Serum plugin. Kelly said the result feels fully "3-D," like you're "inside" the track rather than just listening along.

"same girl"

The last — and most personal —song on the record, "same girl," was mostly written by Kelly while she was on a plane. She wanted something that felt like it could close the record, and she recorded it live with Tenroc in her studio, where he also played piano. 

Kelly said the song was inspired by her love of various music styles and genres. She explained, "Coming up as an artist, I always felt a little insecure about trying to stay in one lane and be in one box. I love so many different genres. I'm inspired by so many different things." She continued, "And so finding my sound I always thought that was a bad thing... But I'm grateful for all these different genres I've been able to dabble in. This song was me being overwhelmed by people's opinions and letting it get to me a little bit while thinking of my career as a whole."

Kelly said that while she worried when she was writing that the lyrics would be too personal and too specific, she's had great feedback about the track, something that reminds her that, "Anytime you write about your own experience, someone else out there is going to be able to relate to it." 

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