Academy Forms Songwriters/Composers Wing
• The Recording Academy® announced the creation of its Songwriters & Composers Wing, an Academy membership division representing the diverse community of music creators. This new Wing fosters recognition of all genres of songwriters and amplifies their unique role in policy discussions that seek fair compensation for creators. This new Wing will provide opportunities for recognition, networking and collaboration while also spotlighting emerging opportunities for song and scoring achievement within a variety of media globally. This marks the second membership division created by the Recording Academy on behalf of music creators — in 2001, The Academy established the Producers & Engineers Wing, which is comprised of approximately 4,500 studio pros across the U.S.
“The musical process begins with our fellow songwriters and composers, and we’re thrilled to launch this Wing at the Academy that creates a home for music’s storytellers across the country,” said Harvey Mason Jr. (left), Chair & Interim President/CEO of the Recording Academy. “These creatives are essential to the music community and we look forward to collaborating with our industry colleagues to support, educate and empower the diverse members in these crafts.”
Ruby Marchand, Chief Industry Officer at the Recording Academy, commented, “The S&C Wing magnifies the presence of songwriters and composers throughout our membership body. Many songwriters and composers are also producers, engineers, musicians, and recording artists. We look forward to celebrating their full array of talents and accomplishments.”
Songwriter Evan Bogart, Pres. of the Recording Academy’s Los Angeles Chapter will serve as Chair of the Songwriters & Composers Wing; the esteemed Lamont Dozier, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Ashley Gorley, Carole King, Jimmy Jam, Tania León, Gustavo Santaolalla, Valerie Simpson, Diane Warren, and Hans Zimmer will serve as honorary chairs; and Susan Stewart, Sr. Director, South Region at the Recording Academy will serve as Executive Sponsor.
Currently, a third of the Recording Academy’s voting membership identify songwriting or composing as part of their craft and these members will be automatically included in the new Wing. Those interested in joining can find membership information on the Recording Academy’s Songwriters & Composers Wing page on GRAMMY.com.
