As college graduation season quickly approaches, most seniors have begun the search for their “dream job" in musc.  While it's an exciting time, the quest can be daunting, especially when applying to roles in an industry as competitive as the music biz. So how do you stand out?  GRAMMY U provided answers and so much more at last week’s GRAMMY U Industry Insights: How to Get the Job workshop in downtown Manhattan.  A packed room of recent- and soon-to-be- college graduates received pointers from a panelists of pros: Madison Rozynek (The Madison Square Garden  Company), Ian Rifkin (Universal Music Group), Christine Schworn (Sirius XM) and Lisa Hauptman (Downtown Music Publishing).  Here are a few valuable tips for landing the dream job.

(L-R): Lisa Hauptman, Christine Schworn, Ian Rifkin, Madison Rozynek, Jessica McDevitt

1. Dress the Part

The entertainment industry is known for pushing boundaries, but that behavior doesn’t apply to interview etiquette. While the dress code is casual to business casual for most of the music industry, always show up to an interview in professional attire. A general rule: It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. Keep it business professional and leave the boundary pushing until your first day on the job.

2. "Thank You..." Next

Thank you is never a bad idea, especially after an interview. Be sure to ask for a business card or an email address, and follow up with a quick note expressing your continued interest in the job and try to include something personal that was discussed during the interview. If you want to go the extra mile, “hand written notes will always make you stand out,” says Christine Schworn, Recruiter & Talent Acquisition, Sirius XM.  And remember, it typically takes about six weeks from interview to hire, so be patient.

3. Play Your Position

Dream big but make sure your experience matches the job. How do you know if you qualify? Read the job description thoroughly, and be honest with yourself.  Recent graduates typically land Department and Executive Assistant roles at entertainment companies to get into the door.  Don’t shy away from these roles, even the temporary jobs, because they often lead to bigger opportunities says, Ian Rifkin, Manager of Internship Programs & Campus Recruiting, Universal Music Group.   Network, work hard and you’ll be ready for the next level soon.

4. Circle of Life

Remember opportunities exists everywhere, even among friends.  Getting an informational with a senior level executive at a dream job is great, but you can also create opportunities within your circle of peers. “Network within your circle,” says Lisa Hauptman, Global Head of People, Downtown Music Publishing. Remember to not only look up, but across. Your peers are the next round of executives.

5. Stay Linked and Aware

LinkedIn, LinkedIn, LinkedIn.  Recruiters utilize the career site as a tool to identify candidates so keep your LinkedIn profile up to date, and if you don’t have an account, sign up, says Madison Rozynek, Recruiting Coordinator,  The Madison Square Garden Company. Be sure to use an appropriate picture and follow companies that reflect your interests.  And remember, LinkedIn isn’t the only space recruiters use for online research.  Your social accounts are a reflection of you. Be mindful of what you post.

Want More?: Check Out These 5 Surefire Ways To Make It In The Music Industry

The world's leading community of music professionals has welcomed its 2024 New Member Class.  

Earlier this summer, the Recording Academy extended invitations to more than 3,900 creators and music industry professionals for its 2024 New Member Class. During our annual New Member Welcome Week initiative, held virtually last week from Aug. 19 — Aug. 23, those new members explored a host of opportunities to engage directly with key Academy leaders, spark new connections within our vibrant creative community, and learn how to maximize their Recording Academy membership. 

Building on last year's success, the annual New Member Welcome Week program was designed to not only connect new members with key Academy leaders and peers but also to foster community engagement and deepen the understanding of the significant impact of their membership. This initiative is a cornerstone of the Academy's effort to welcome and integrate new talent into its ranks. 

This year, the event expanded with over a dozen Meet the Academy and Member Mix events, showcasing the extensive network and diverse opportunities within the Recording Academy. These events highlighted the work of various Academy affiliates and programs, including the Songwriters & Composers Wing and the Producers & Engineers Wing. Special guests such as rapper, DJ and GRAMMY nominee Paul Wall, singer/songwriter and pianist Avery Sunshine, and GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY Award winner, percussionist, and composer Tony Succar provided insightful discussions and interactions, enriching the experience for all attendees. 

Here's some highlights from New Member Welcome Week 2024 — for those who may have missed out and to inspire those who want to be part of the next membership class! 

Read more: 4 Ways To Maximize Your Recording Academy Membership 

New Member Welcome Week 2024 commenced with an engaging conversation between Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr. and GRAMMY-winning country music sensation Lainey Wilson. The intimate chat detailed Mason jr.’s creative journey, how he leads the Academy's efforts on behalf of the music community, and why being active in your Academy membership is more critical now than ever.

The Recording Academy's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) team hosted an impactful informational session. Led by Ryan Butler, Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for the Recording Academy, and DEI Manager Ricky Lyon, the discussion explored various initiatives within the DREAM (Diversity Reimagined by Engaging All Musicmakers) Initiative, which aims to foster a more inclusive music industry for all. This year's class of invited new members, for example, is notably diverse, comprising 45% women, 57% people of color, and 47% under the age of 40, moving closer to the Academy's goal of adding 2,500 women Voting Members by 2025. 

Related: How The Recording Academy's RAA+D Network Is Supporting Artists & Creators With Disabilities And Building Accessibility For All 

The Recording Academy's Awards team hosted a comprehensive webinar on the Online Entry Process (OEP) for the 2025 GRAMMYs, officially known as the 67th GRAMMY Awards, which included a full walkthrough of the brand-new entry platform and equipped Academy members with essential knowledge for participating in the upcoming GRAMMY Awards season. 

Meet Your Advocacy Team, a session led by Todd Dupler, Chief Advocacy & Public Policy Officer for the Recording Academy, and Michael Lewan, Managing Director of Advocacy & Public Policy at the Academy, introduced members to the crucial advocacy work the organization undertakes to safeguard creators' rights and highlighted the importance of legislative engagement. Next up: Stay involved in your Academy membership by joining your peers on Oct. 1 for Music Advocacy Day, the largest grassroots movement for music and its makers. This is your opportunity to speak with members of Congress about A.I., protecting your voice and likeness, and much more. 

As the Recording Academy welcomes its 2024 New Member Class, the organization reaffirms its commitment to serving the music community, advocating for creators' rights, and supporting music people through organizations like MusiCares and the GRAMMY Museum. Our ongoing mission ensures that the Academy remains a pivotal force in the global music landscape and that music remains an indelible part of our culture. 

2024 New Member Class invitees and those interested in Recording Academy membership are also encouraged to join our newly launched New Member Class broadcast channel on Instagram to learn more about the Recording Academy and membership-related updates. 

Learn more about the Recording Academy's membership and membership requirements. Read our Membership Resource Guide to learn more about the Recording Academy, its affiliates, and our membership and advocacy efforts.

On July 29, a diverse, talented group of over 200 Recording Academy New York Chapter members filled Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg to mingle, network, and talk shop. 

The special occasion was the New York Chapter Member Celebration — its first summer event — and the attendees were eager to make new friends and connections, while embracing old ones over free food and drinks.

Held inside Brooklyn Brewery's spacious wooden tasting room, where guests could try any of the local brewer's beers on draft and bites from Shake Shack — the official burger partner of the New York Chapter Member Celebration As members milled about the space, New York-bred DJ Morsy — who's also a music producer, audio engineer and proud member of the Class of 2024 — provided upbeat grooves to make Monday feel like a full-on party.

An hour or so into the lively event, Nick Cucci, the Senior Executive Director of the New York Chapter, and Lee Dannay, the new NY Chapter President, briefly paused the music and conversation to share their gratitude for their community — which grew by 600 members to 3501 this year — and the many sponsors that made the evening possible. "We can’t do this without our partners and our sponsors," Dannay said. 

The Connect Lounge, located among large, shiny vats of beer still in the brewing process, provided opportunities to network with many of the event's community partners. Daniel's Music Foundation, GRAMMY Go, MusiCares, Music Managers Forum US, Platinum Academy, The Mechanical Licensing Collective, Sound Royalties, RAMPD, Queer Capita, and She Is The Music all had tables set up to showcase their important work and how to get involved. 

Inside the Connect Lounge, attendees could watch clips from GRAMMY Go — the Recording Academy's creator-to-creator learning platform —featuring useful courses on music production, songwriting and audience building from a star-studded cast of GRAMMY-winning and nominated artists including Victoria Monét, Janelle Monáe and Hit-Boy. 

The Lounge also boasted more delicious treats; fresh, gooey cookies from Levain Bakery — the official cookie partner of the New York Chapter Member Celebration  — and organic flavored green tea from Saint James. 

Towards the end of the evening, the music was briefly paused once again to reveal the lucky winner of a raffle. NYC-based, Nigerian-born Afrobeats artist Teemanay took home a brand new D'Angelico Premier Brighton electric guitar, donated by the craft NYC guitar company. 

Even after 10 p.m. when the event ended and brewery closed, many guests mingled outside to continue conversations, exchange information and introduce themselves to anyone they might not have had the chance to yet. Recording Academy New York Chapter members are not only talented and driven creators and music industry professionals, they are clearly committed to supporting each other and building community. 

"We haven’t done an all-member celebration, nor have we ever done a program in Brooklyn during my tenure. All the stars aligned for this night. [It was a] great turnout from our members and an iconic New York City venue — Brooklyn Brewery! Perfect all around," Cucci says of the event.

The Chapter extends an extra special thanks to all their beloved partners, especially the Annual New York Chapter partners: Concord Theatricals, Sound Royalties, and the Mechanical Licensing Collective; the Official Burger of the New York Chapter Member Celebration, Shake Shack; and the Official Cookie Partner of the New York Chapter Member Celebration, Levain Bakery.

New York is the Recording Academy's second-biggest chapter. It not only serves New York City but the entire Northeast, eastern Canada, and Western Europe.. The Member Celebration is just one of many gatherings hosted by this East Coast chapter, which also include other networking opportunities , and intimate conversations  with music creators and professional producers  as part of the Community Connections series, to name a few.

If you are an artist or music professional interested in joining your local Recording Academy Chapter, you can find more information here. The Academy also accepts recommendations for new members.

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.