Written by Emma Hampton, Carlie Anderson & Sophie Griffiths

GRAMMY U, the Recording Academy’s membership for college students pursuing music, has kicked off a new year and we are excited to welcome the 2022-23 GRAMMY U Representative class.

These 14 students are up-and-comers in the industry and are the heart and soul of every GRAMMY U curated experience presented throughout the year. Each Chapter has a GRAMMY U Representative works closely with their staff on local programs. Reps also work collaboratively with each other and the GRAMMY U national team, which includes two additional student Reps who focus on projects and membership, respectively.

GRAMMY U Representatives serve from one to three consecutive years and have the opportunity to organize everything from private soundchecks with top-tier touring artists, to masterclasses with leading industry professionals.

We asked this year’s Reps an assortment of questions about themselves personally and professionally. Get to know the 2022-2023 class of GRAMMY U Representatives below and stay connected with the future of the music industry.

Jade Bacon | Los Angeles

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

If there were no limits, what one event would you plan for GRAMMY U and why?

Day in the Industry: An event where GRAMMY U members get to pick an influential professional in the field they are interested in and go with them through their day as they work on projects, meetings, or creative aspects.

If you could invent a new product or business concept, what would it be and why?

An app that made a playlist based on how you're feeling. Maybe it could be connected to your music streaming service so it has a good idea of your taste and you can fill out a short survey. The survey answers will determine the songs you get and then you have a playlist for the day. You could call it Play of the Day.

What do you think is the ideal location for a concert?

I love an intimate space and the relationship you can feel between the artists and fans. I think a small venue with space to dance and sing at the top of your lungs will always be the most enjoyable to me.

Connect with Jade:

Email: grammyu.la@recordingacademy.com  

IG: @jadembacon

Heather Howard | Nashville

Heather is a rising senior at Middle Tennessee State University with a major in music business. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

Describe your favorite experience in the music industry so far.

My favorite experience in the music industry so far has to be when I got to work on digital marketing for the CMA Fest this summer and see different performances side stage that I never thought I'd be able to see while working.

Describe your vision for the future of the music industry.

My vision for the future of the music industry is that we create even more opportunities for the youth to get involved and to become aware about the possibilities a career in this industry can offer them. I want to see the industry sharing more knowledge and advice with one another and creating a pathway for everyone regardless of race, gender, etc. to succeed and reach new heights with help from the people they work closely with everyday.

What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone who is just starting out in the music industry?

Get to know everyone around you, get coffee with them, stay connected with them; you never know who you might be working with down the line or who you might need as a reference. Networking is key in this industry.

Connect with Heather:

Email: grammyu.nashville@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @officialheatherhoward

Lauren Stephens | Texas Chapter

Lauren is a marketing major at the University of Texas at Austin. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

If there were no limits, what one event would you plan for GRAMMY U and why?

Live music is my favorite thing in the world, so I would love to put on a mini festival of sorts for GRAMMY U! I'd probably sort the stages by genre and organize some Q&A's and meet-and-greets during that time as well. Since we have lots of creatives and writers in GRAMMY U, we could also have GRAMMY U members interviewing or photographing artists they love.

What is the best concert you have been to this year? What would be your dream concert?

5SOS put on an amazing show, and it was such a full circle moment getting to shoot one of their shows and see them at the same venue I saw them at in 2015! For my dream concert, I'd love to see Harry Styles for under $100 in an intimate venue — like the 2017 tour he did.

What is your ideal festival lineup?

The Maine, the Wombats, Inhaler, 5 Seconds of Summer (and have Luke Hemmings play some of his solo stuff!!), Harry Styles OR MCR.

Connect with Lauren:

Email: grammyu.texas@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @laurensstephens 

Sophie Griffiths | Philadelphia Chapter

Sophie is a senior at Drexel University, majoring in music industry with a concentration in recording arts and production. She also has a minor in business administration, and in music theory and composition. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is one piece of advice you’d give someone who is just starting out in the music industry?

I would say the most important things I've learned are to stay busy and stay connected. It is important to always be talking to and working with people in this industry to learn anything, as well as always working on your next project. Developing a portfolio for yourself becomes incredibly useful for finding clients, more people to collaborate with, and just cultivating and sharpening your skillset.

What is your dream job?

My dream job is to become a professional songwriter and vocal producer. I have always been a musician and songwriter, and after going into recording and learning about the skills, I see myself working one-on-one with artists to cultivate their creative visions.

What is your favorite movie soundtrack and what is your favorite song from that soundtrack?

My favorite soundtrack is by The Coup from Sorry To Bother You. The music is upbeat and wild and will always pump me up. If I were to choose any song off that soundtrack to listen to right now, it would have to be "We Need an Eruption."

Connect with Sophie:

Email: grammy.philly@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @soph.h.g 

Joanna Serrano | San Francisco Chapter

Joanna is currently a senior at San Jose State University studying public relations. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

If there were no limits, what one event would you plan for GRAMMY U and why?

I would love to hold a GRAMMY U showcase during GRAMMY week! The showcase would feature performances from both professionals as well as aspiring professionals who are members of the Recording Academy or GRAMMY U. This would be an amazing opportunity to witness iconic performances by acts we all know and love, while shining light on rising talents who are a part of GRAMMY U!

Describe your favorite experience in the music industry so far.

My favorite part of the music industry has been creating connections with individuals all over the world! It is amazing working with people who share the same passion and love for music. I have been blown away by the kindness I have witnessed across multiple aspects of the industry, both by horizontal and vertical connections!

Who is your favorite songwriter and what do you like about them?

My favorite songwriter is Luke Hemmings. He branched out from his pop-rock work with 5SOS and was able to create songs that emulate sadness but also inspiration. After over 10 years in the industry, we can hear and feel his growth through his art.

Connect with Joanna:

Email: grammyu.sf@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @joannaxserrano

Amir Duke | Atlanta Chapter

Amir is a senior at Morehouse College with a major in economics. This is his first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

Describe your vision for the future of the music industry

My vision of the music industry going forward is next level streaming and tech. We currently are watching the innovation of streams, likes, and shares with music through social media platforms such as TikTok, and Instagram. I also see labels and music tech merging into one huge platform in the next 5-10 years.

What is your dream job?

My dream job in the music industry is label relations at Amazon Music. Going forward in my career I see myself still being close to a label but having the ability to work heavily in this new age of the industry which is music tech.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone who is just starting out in the music industry?

One piece of advice I would give to someone just starting out in the music industry is to be consistent and dedicated. It’s not always easy making your way through the industry; However, if you’re dedicated to curating relationships and hard work you will thrive.

Connect with Amir:

Email: grammyu.atlanta@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @_amirduke

Carlie Anderson | Florida Chapter

Carlie studies music industry and business law at the University of Miami. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

Describe your favorite experience in the music industry so far.

My favorite experience in the music industry so far was having the opportunity to attend GRAMMY Week and the 64th GRAMMYs this past April and finally getting a chance to work with my fellow representatives in person!

If you could only listen to one album or one artist for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

If I could only listen to one album for the rest of my life it would have to be Sound and Color by the Alabama Shakes.

Connect with Carlie:

Email: grammyu.florida@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @carlieanderson

Maddie Caccavale | New York Chapter

Maddie is an arts & entertainment industries management major at Rider University. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

Describe your vision for the future of the music industry

My vision for the future of the industry is definitely a bright one! I hope that live music continues to grow bigger than ever before since the pandemic hit and more up-and-coming artists have the chance to perform in front of more live audiences. I also hope that the industry continues to become more diverse and inclusive in all areas, and that creators will get full recognition and compensation for their work.

Describe your favorite experience in the music industry so far.

My favorite experience being in the music industry so far is getting the opportunity to become a member of communities like GRAMMY U, Women in Music, She is the Music, Amplify Her Voice and so many others! All of them have provided me with opportunities to learn, grow, and build community as I get my start in the music business!

If you could manage a tour for any artist, who would it be and why?

It would have to be Taylor Swift. She is one of the greatest artists and performers of our time. I have been lucky enough to see her live many times and have always walked out of all her shows in complete awe. I have been following her career ever since I was little and my love for her work has grown through the years. Taylor is truly one of my biggest inspirations and it would be a dream come true to have the opportunity to work with her one day!

Connect with Maddie:

Email: grammyu.ny@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @maddiecaccavale

Rachael MacQuarrie | Pacific Northwest Chapter

Rachael is studying music composition and recording arts at Western Washington University. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What do you think is the ideal location for a concert?

I think the ideal location for a concert is deep in the woodlands under the dappled green light of pine trees. At night we would adorn the trees with string lights, like a little fairy hideout! The Olympic Peninsula has many beautiful forests that would be amazing for something like this.

If you had a job not in the music industry, what would it be and why?

would work in physical education, more specifically, teaching Aikido. One of my first jobs was teaching Aikido, a Japanese martial art based in self-defense and peaceful resolution. In my life, I have found great joy, strength, mental fortitude, and recovery through movement. Helping others find that joy, the power of self-expression through movement, is one of the most gratifying feelings.

Describe your favorite personal playlist and tell us the title.

My favorite personal playlist is a mix of funk, hip-hop, and soul music that's upbeat with warm tones and a crisp rhythm section. Some featured artists include FKJ, Tom Misch, Vulfpeck, and the Phony Ppl. The title is "SHRIMP!" because shrimp are yummy and colorful little morsels, just like each song on the playlist!

Connect with Rachael:

Email: grammyu.pnw@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @raenandfire 

Emma Hampton | Memphis Chapter

Emma is a senior at the University of Memphis studying music business. This is her second year as GRAMMY U Representative.

Describe your favorite experience in the music industry so far.

I'd be crazy if I didn't say going to the GRAMMYs has been my favorite experience in the industry. It's also been one of my favorite experiences in my entire life. The whole week was unbelievable. We got to also go to the GRAMMYs NextUp, had a masterclass with Hannah Lux Davis, and got to volunteer at the Person of the Year gala. Those moments are irreplaceable, and I still can't believe I got those opportunities.

If you could score any type of film, what genre would it be?

I've always wanted to score at least one film. I love thinking of how I would score my favorite books if they were turned into films. I think I'd want to score a dramatic film, something with a lot of depth and soul to it.

Who is your favorite songwriter and what do you like about them?

My favorite songwriter right now (I literally have their songs on repeat 24/7) is Leith Ross. They’re one of those writers who makes me feel like they’re in my head. When I listen to their songs, I sometimes feel almost as if the song was written personally for me.

Connect with Emma:

Email: grammyu.memphis@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @echampton8

Jonathan Weaver | Washington D.C. Chapter

Jonathan is a student at Howard University studying finance. This is his first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

If there were no limits, what one event would you plan for GRAMMY U and why?

I would put on a festival to celebrate the Black and Brown queer community within the music industry because I feel that this demographic of people is under-appreciated in the industry.

If you could manage a tour for any artist, who would it be and why?

I would be interested in managing a tour for Normani because she is my favorite artist and an amazing performer.

Connect with Jonathan:

Email: grammyu.dc@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @jonathancarl111 

Kegan Grace | Chicago Chapter

Kegan is a student at Northwestern University majoring in Statistics and Music. This is his first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

What is your dream job?

My dream role is to be either a part of the live industry or work in artist management. Something like an agent or a business manager!

What other organizations are you involved in?

The Northwestern University Wildcat Marching Band and the student-run video and music production club Niteskool Productions. I’m also in a street drumming and dance group.

What are your top favorite songs right now?

"Cool With You" by Her’s, "Mortal Projections" by Djo, "The Adults are Talking" by The Strokes, and "Voliano" by Remi Wolf.

Connect with Kegan:

Email: grammyu.chicago@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @keeg.grace 

Daniel Ramos | National Representative: Membership

Daniel is a senior at Berklee College of Music majoring in music business management. This is his first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.

Describe your vision for the future of the music industry.

My vision would involve giving more opportunities to new artists and really help promote the new wave of music. I would want to build a foundation where musicians feel like they want to be a part of the music industry and have their voices and concerns be heard. I would love to create a culture of inclusivity and purpose to the work that everyone does and to keep generating and cultivating success.

What is one song, album, or artist you would encourage readers to check out?

I am a very strong advocate for up-and-coming artists so I would definitely have everyone check out Vivienne Arthur’s album "Everything I Am."

What is your dream job?

It would be great to work as a music agent or entertainment lawyer. I am really passionate about negotiating contracts and transactional law so ideally, I would love to be in that profession.

Connect with Daniel:

Email: grammyu.membership@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @daniel.ramoss_ 

Sam Merkin | National Representative: Projects

Sam is a senior at the University of Miami with a major in music business. This is his second year as a GRAMMY U Rep.

If there were no limits, what one event would you plan for GRAMMY U and why?

I would get Justin Bieber, The Kid Laroi, and Ariana Grande along with Scooter Braun to educate students on manager/artist relationships and the nooks and crannies of that bond. If the budget was really limitless, I'd probably host it on the moon. Why not?

What do you think will be your most listened to song for 2022? 

I wouldn't be surprised if my top streamed song for this year is "Coast" by Hailee Steinfeld. I tend to get tired of music really fast after listening to it a bunch, but that song has a vibe that I don't think will get old.

What is one song, album or artist you would encourage readers to check out?

I would encourage everyone to check out a song that I released this summer called "LEXI!"

Connect with Sam:

Email: grammyu.projects@recordingacademy.com 

IG: @samsammerk 

5 Highlights Of GRAMMY U's Spring 2022 Mentorship Program

Since 1959, the GRAMMY Award has been music’s most coveted honor. Each year at the annual GRAMMY Awards, GRAMMY-winning and -nominated artists are recognized for their musical excellence by their peers. Their lives are forever changed — so are their career trajectories. And when you have questions about the GRAMMYs, we have answers.

Here are seven facts to know about the value of the GRAMMY trophy.

How Much Does A GRAMMY Trophy Cost To Make?

The cost to produce a GRAMMY Award trophy, including labor and materials, is nearly $800. Bob Graves, who cast the original GRAMMY mold inside his garage in 1958, passed on his legacy to John Billings, his neighbor, in 1983. Billings, also known as "The GRAMMY Man," designed the current model in use, which debuted in 1991.

How Long Does It Take To Make A GRAMMY Trophy?

Billings and his crew work on making GRAMMY trophies throughout the year. Each GRAMMY is handmade, and each GRAMMY Award trophy takes 15 hours to produce. 

Where Are The GRAMMY Trophies Made?

While Los Angeles is the headquarters of the Recording Academy and the GRAMMYs, and regularly the home of the annual GRAMMY Awards, GRAMMY trophies are produced at Billings Artworks in Ridgway, Colorado, about 800 miles away from L.A.

Is The GRAMMY Award Made Of Real Gold?

GRAMMY Awards are made of a trademarked alloy called "Grammium" — a secret zinc alloy — and are plated with 24-karat gold.

How Many GRAMMY Trophies Are Made Per Year?

Approximately 600-800 GRAMMY Award trophies are produced per year. This includes both GRAMMY Awards and Latin GRAMMY Awards for the two Academies; the number of GRAMMYs manufactured each year always depends on the number of winners and Categories we award across both award shows.

Fun fact: The two GRAMMY trophies have different-colored bases. The GRAMMY Award has a black base, while the Latin GRAMMY Award has a burgundy base.

Photos: Gabriel Bouys/AFP via Getty Images; Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images

How Much Does A GRAMMY Weigh?

The GRAMMY trophy weighs approximately 5 pounds. The trophy's height is 9-and-a-half inches. The trophy's width is nearly 6 inches by 6 inches.

What Is The True Value Of A GRAMMY?

Winning a GRAMMY, and even just being nominated for a GRAMMY, has an immeasurable positive impact on the nominated and winning artists. It opens up new career avenues, builds global awareness of artists, and ultimately solidifies a creator’s place in history. Since the GRAMMY Award is the only peer-voted award in music, this means artists are recognized, awarded and celebrated by those in their fields and industries, ultimately making the value of a GRAMMY truly priceless and immeasurable.

In an interview featured in the 2024 GRAMMYs program book, two-time GRAMMY winner Lauren Daigle spoke of the value and impact of a GRAMMY Award. "Time has passed since I got my [first] GRAMMYs, but the rooms that I am now able to sit in, with some of the most incredible writers, producers and performers on the planet, is truly the greatest gift of all." 

"Once you have that credential, it's a different certification. It definitely holds weight," two-time GRAMMY winner Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter of the Roots added. "It's a huge stamp as far as branding, businesswise, achievement-wise and in every regard. What the GRAMMY means to people, fans and artists is ever-evolving." 

As Billboard explains, artists will often see significant boosts in album sales and streaming numbers after winning a GRAMMY or performing on the GRAMMY stage. This is known as the "GRAMMY Effect," an industry phenomenon in which a GRAMMY accolade directly influences the music biz and the wider popular culture. 

For new artists in particular, the "GRAMMY Effect" has immensely helped rising creators reach new professional heights. Samara Joy, who won the GRAMMY for Best New Artist at the 2023 GRAMMYs, saw a 989% boost in sales and a 670% increase in on-demand streams for her album Linger Awhile, which won the GRAMMY for Best Jazz Vocal Album that same night. H.E.R., a former Best New Artist nominee, saw a massive 6,771% increase in song sales for her hit “I Can’t Breathe” on the day it won the GRAMMY for Song Of The Year at the 2021 GRAMMYs, compared to the day before, Rolling Stone reports. 

Throughout the decades, past Best New Artist winners have continued to dominate the music industry and charts since taking home the GRAMMY gold — and continue to do so to this day. Recently, Best New Artist winners dominated the music industry and charts in 2023: Billie Eilish (2020 winner) sold 2 million equivalent album units, Olivia Rodrigo (2022 winner) sold 2.1 million equivalent album units, and Adele (2009 winner) sold 1.3 million equivalent album units. Elsewhere, past Best New Artist winners have gone on to star in major Hollywood blockbusters (Dua Lipa); headline arena tours and sign major brand deals (Megan Thee Stallion); become LGBTIA+ icons (Sam Smith); and reach multiplatinum status (John Legend).

Most recently, several winners, nominees and performers at the 2024 GRAMMYs saw significant bumps in U.S. streams and sales: Tracy Chapman's classic, GRAMMY-winning single "Fast Car," which she performed alongside Luke Combs, returned to the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time since 1988, when the song was originally released, according to Billboard. Fellow icon Joni Mitchell saw her ‘60s classic “Both Sides, Now,” hit the top 10 on the Digital Song Sales chart, Billboard reports.

In addition to financial gains, artists also experience significant professional wins as a result of their GRAMMY accolades. For instance, after she won the GRAMMY for Best Reggae Album for Rapture at the 2020 GRAMMYs, Koffee signed a U.S. record deal; after his first GRAMMYs in 2014, Kendrick Lamar saw a 349% increase in his Instagram following, Billboard reports. 

Visit our interactive GRAMMY Awards Journey page to learn more about the GRAMMY Awards and the voting process behind the annual ceremony.

2024 GRAMMYs: See The Full Winners & Nominees List

On April 20th, GRAMMY U members and industry professionals gathered at the Times Center in New York City for the 2024 GRAMMY U Conference presented by Amazon Music. 

The GRAMMY U team prepared an action-packed and motivating day of panels "Live From New York," focusing on topics from live performances to the business behind Broadway productions. Keynote speaker Ben Platt talked about the transition from a Broadway star to recording his solo studio album, followed by a performance workshop with Billy Porter, and live music production on late night television with Remi Wolf.

Once members arrived, they took advantage of professional development opportunities and mingled with other GRAMMY U members before attending the conference panels. Attendees visited the robust Career Center which included a professional headshot station, resume review station, and a dedicated speed networking hour with industry professionals within the Recording Academy, Amazon Music and more. These collaborations allowed for the next generation of music creatives and professionals to gain first-hand experience with mentors across various business sectors and musical genres.

Below are five impactful takeaways from the 2024 GRAMMY U Conference.

Shed Your Armor To Embrace Vulnerability 

After a two-year performance run on Broadway starring in "Dear Evan Hansen", Ben Platt shifted his priority toward making original music and sharing personal storylines.

In "Live! With Ben Platt," moderated by actor and long-time best friend of Platt's, Beanie Feldstein discussed Platt's bold choice of stepping back from portraying fictional characters on stage, to now releasing original music with his upcoming album Honeymind. 

"The gratification of connecting with your own experiences and seeing people really use the songs in their lives is so infinitely beyond the worries," Platt shared. 

Crossing over from a Broadway stage to pop music, Platt suggested that a key to success is trusting one's vocal technique and individual sound to translate your perspective.  

Beanie Feldstein with keynote speaker Ben Platt at the GRAMMY U Conference | Photo: Rob Kim/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Consistently Perfect The Fundamentals 

During the performance workshop "Standing in the Spotlight with Billy Porter," GRAMMY, Emmy, and two-time Tony Award-Winner Billy Porter sat down with SiriusXM Program Director Julie James. They discussed the importance of performance critique in helping artists perfect their craft and captivate audiences, as well as strategies for maintaining overall health while on tour.

Porter mentioned that while critiques are important for artists to continue improving their vocal abilities, knowing how to meet personal needs and goals is just as important.

"As you sift through [critiques], you have the right to choose what's right for you and what isn't," Porter said before posing the question, "What notes are good for your vision, and which aren't?"

Left to Right: GRAMMY U Performer Roy Gantz, Billy Porter and moderator Julie James | Photo: Rob Kim/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

This marked the first time GRAMMY U included a performance workshop in its programming, and it provided a fresh perspective from the best in the business. GRAMMY U National Membership Representative Roy Gantz sang "Someone to Watch Over Me," accompanied on piano by Tedd Firth, and received real-time feedback from Billy Porter in front of a live audience. 

"From the minute you hit the stage, to when you get to that mic[rophone], it's about your presence. Keep connecting with us [the audience]," Porter told Gantz.

Porter emphasized the importance of mastering the original melody and musical notations of a song before incorporating riffs and embellishments of popular pieces, and praised Gantz for his advanced technique and interpretation.

"Believe in what you have to offer. In honoring your authenticity, you teach people on the outside how to receive you," Porter advised the audience. 

Stay Vocal, Relationships Are Everything

"On the Screen: Performing On Live TV" featured panelists Yeji Cha-Beach, the Music Associate Producer on NBC's Late Night with Seth Meyers Show, Marnie Stern, former member of the 8G Band on the Seth Meyers Show, and pop recording artist Remi Wolf. Moderated by Siobhan Schanda, the panelists discussed the intricacies of playing on a live TV set including lighting, sound, and design choices. Wolf mentioned her preference for performing with her touring musicians and a live band. 

"Put the music first and try to develop your own style," Wolf said. "The most I've ever felt proud of my work was when I followed my gut." 

Stern remarked that although socializing and navigating the music industry network did not always come naturally, connecting and playing with other musicians was vital to her success as a live TV musician. She described one of the biggest differences between playing on live television and working on her own recording artistry.

"You're selling a commercial product and your job is to entertain," Stern said. "With your own work, your job is to present your feelings and emotions. Everyone is working to further not only the artist but the network." 

Cha-Beach offered guidance for aspiring TV music producers, stating, "Be curious, try as many things as you possibly can. Knowing when to say yes is just as important as knowing when to say no."

 Left to Right: Siobhan Schanda (moderator), Yeji Cha-Beach, Marnie Stern, Remi Wolf; Close-up photo of Remi Wolf | Photos: Rob Kim/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

A Great Musical Takes Time 

The "Sounds of the Stage" panel conducted a candid conversation about the behind-the-scenes process of composing and writing music for musicals. Kurt Deutsch (Senior Vice President at Warner Music Entertainment and Theatrical Ventures) was joined by David Lai (Co-Founder Park Avenue Artists), Kathy Sommer (Composer, Conductor, Producer), and moderator Thomas Winkler (Head of Publisher, Songwriter, and Society Relations at Amazon Music). 

These panelists conducted a candid conversation about the behind-the-scenes process of composing and writing music for musicals. They focused on how Broadway theater experience translated into the process of recording live studio albums.

"You can't bring it to the stage until the bones are set, until things are solidified," Lai said. It's worth spending the time to use the resources we have to work on your material."

Deutsch described the nuances of recording a pop album versus a cast performance record which has quick turnaround times. Often, they are recorded in a single day-long session due to budgeting costs for the orchestra and cast members involved. 

The main goal of a cast album is to allow audiences to relive the emotional experience they had in the theater setting, and for newcomers to still be able to relate to the show's characters and themes through a sonic medium. 

Left to Right: Thomas Winkler (moderator), David Lai, Kurt Deutsch and Kathy Sommer | Photo: Rob Kim/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

'Content Is Queen': Prioritize Meaningful Storytelling

"Side Stage: The Team Behind the Curtain" featured Erich Bergen (Producer, Actor, Director, 6W Entertainment); Pete Ganbarg (President of A&R, Atlantic Records); Adam Hess (Executive Producer, DR Theatrical Management); Christen James (Tony Award-Nominated Broadway Producer); and Michael Kushner (Founder and Creator of Michael Kushner Photography & Dear Multi-Hyphenate).

Together, these creatives explored the business of Broadway and discussed the roles of producers and managers who bring the shows to life. James spoke about what she's most drawn to when beginning a new theatrical project.

"Meaningful storytelling is key [and] music absolutely makes the difference. Content is queen, the story as well as the music," she said. "Art is supposed to change what you're doing to the point where you're thinking about it, it's influencing you." 

Left to Right: Michael Kushner (moderator), Erich Bergen, Pete Ganbarg, Adam Hess and Christen James | Photo: Rob Kim/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Presented by Amazon Music and with participating sponsorship from Mastercard, GRAMMY U's 2024 conference "Live From New York" engaged members through an exhilarating two-day summit.

From the Friday showcase with GRAMMY U performers to Saturday's slew of panels covering all things show business, the GRAMMY U Conference in the Big Apple helped inform, connect, and inspire GRAMMY U members across the nation. 

Relive the experience and watch all the panels again here. 

5 Takeaways From GRAMMY U's Masterclass With Andrew McMahon: Be Bold, Build Bonds & Embrace Your Fears

GRAMMY U hosted a two-day conference presented by Amazon Music for GRAMMY U members in New York City on April 19 and 20. The event, spearheaded by GRAMMY U Senior Director Jessie Allen, offered an immersive experience designed to enrich and empower emerging talents within the music industry. 

An emerging artist showcase took place on Friday, April 19, followed by a day-long series of panels and breakout sessions on Saturday, April 20, highlighting the live performance industries of Broadway and television talk shows, featuring GRAMMY, Tony, and Emmy-winning artist and actor Ben Platt as the keynote speaker.

The summit marks the beginning of a new cornerstone collaboration between GRAMMY U and Amazon Music, in which Amazon Music will play an integral role in the growth of GRAMMY U’s year-round programming, development and impact. Mastercard was also a participating sponsor of the conference.

“We were all thrilled to bring the GRAMMY U Conference to the heart of New York City. It’s a testament to the dedication of Jessie Allen, whose leadership has elevated this event year after year,” said Ruby Marchand, Chief Awards Officer of the Recording Academy. “I extend heartfelt gratitude to the Amazon Music Team for supporting GRAMMY U; this marks the genesis of an extraordinary collaboration, and together, we look forward to crafting an array of programs that will empower our GRAMMY U members throughout the year.”

The emerging artist showcase featured dynamic performances by GRAMMY U members Kayla Erhardt, Kühlname, Serena Laurel, Nicknames, Liv Paris, and Your Future Is Now scholar Jawan Audè. The evening concluded with a captivating performance by New York soft rock sibling ensemble, Infinity Song.

Saturday’s programming kicked off with keynote speaker Ben Platt. In a thought-provoking keynote discussion moderated by actor Beanie Feldstein, Platt delved into his musical journey spanning Broadway, film and television, inspiring attendees with his insights. The day continued with a performance workshop led by GRAMMY, Emmy, and Tony-winner Billy Porter. Moderated by SiriusXM Program Director Julie James, attendees immersed themselves in a captivating session aimed at honing their live performance skills. 

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

The conference included a panel featuring “Late Night with Seth Meyers” Music Associate Producer Yeji Cha-Beach, former member of the “Late Night with Seth Meyers” 8G Band, Marnie Stern, and musician Remi Wolf. Titled “On Screen: Performing on Live TV,” the panel covered the challenges and nuances of delivering live musical performances on television, and was moderated by Siobhan Schanda, Co-Executive Producer of “SHERRI.” 

Programming continued with a panel titled “Sounds of the Stage,” moderated by Thomas Winkler, Head of Publisher, Songwriter and Society Relations at Amazon Music, featuring SVP of Warner Music Entertainment and Theatrical Ventures Kurt Deutsch, Co-Founder of Park Avenue Artists David Lai, and composer, conductor and producer Kathy Sommer, where they explored sound production on stage and cast recordings.

Additional panels included “Side Stage: The Team Behind the Curtain,” featuring industry executives moderated by Michael Kushner, founder of Michael Kushner Photography and Dear Multi-Hyphenate, featuring producer, actor and director Erich Bergen, President of A&R of Atlantic Records Pete Ganbarg, Executive Producer of DR Theatrical Management Adam Hess, and Tony-nominated Broadway producer and vocalist Christen James, where they detailed the business of Broadway and how teams bring shows to life every night.

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Ben Platt has never allowed the world to dictate his fate. The GRAMMY, Tony, and Emmy-winner's artistic outpouring has been relentless, and he's still early in his career. 

The 30-year-old actor and singer has performed in Broadway musicals like "Parade" and "Dear Evan Hansen," sold out Madison Square Garden and the Hollywood Bowl as a solo artist, and starred and co-wrote the film Theater Camp. Each project has marked a step into a new direction, but none more so than Honeymind — an album that captures what it's like to chase tender and safe intimacy in partnership, and the ecstasy that follows once found. 

His professional growth between 2021's Reverie and Honeymind is apparent not just thematically, but sonically and in production. This latest album sounds natural and lush, with input from GRAMMY-winning producer Dave Cobb and producer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Alex Hope. While  Honeymind shows a version of Platt some listeners may not be accustomed to, he's never sounded more comfortable in his own skin. 

To celebrate the release of Honeymind, Platt will headline a three-week residency in New York City's Palace Theatre and a subsequent nationwide summer tour and serve as the keynote speaker at this year’s GRAMMY U Conference. He spoke with GRAMMY.com about his latest album, upcoming residency, and the beautiful and, at times, tricky trappings of romantic love.

This interview has been edited for clarity. The 2024 GRAMMY U Conference is presented by Amazon Music. Mastercard is also a participating sponsor of the conference.

Honeymind shifts away from the '80s electro-pop of Reverie and your Broadway roots. What made you gravitate towards a more tender, folky sound that exudes warmth and serenity?

The biggest catalyst was that I wanted to go and write Nashville because I admired so many songwriters there. When I started with my first round of writing sessions for this record — which was back in the spring of 2022 — what just very naturally started coming out was this super unadorned, very storytelling-forward type of music. 

When I made my first record [2019], it was very close after I had been on Broadway for a long time, and it was theatrically linked. Then, I experimented with leaning into pop and this Peter Gabriel vibe, but it felt like a landing pad this time. I closed my eyes and went, What's the most natural way to communicate in terms of what is specific to me? This seemed to fit really nicely. 

You worked with renowned producers like Dave Cobb on this album. There are times when the producer’s work stands out most, but Honeymind sounds like you. How did you ensure that all tracks sounded distinctly like you versus a Dave Cobb song?

​​I loved the idea of working with Dave! His specialty is unadorned things that are as essential as they can be. When it comes to my own sound, my priority is always obviously storytelling and songwriting, but certainly, to have the vocal performance be very much the focus. Dave was very amenable to that. 

I went and wrote the songs with my co-writers before starting work with Dave, and I sort of came in with all of his songs completed. He did a beautiful job of preserving the integrity of the songs I’d written. [He wanted] to present them in as organic and straightforward a way as possible, as opposed to trying to sort of put a secondary sound onto it. 

Your previous work has been personal to varying degrees, but your lead single, "Andrew," feels particularly candid.

I wrote that song with Alex Hope, one of my favorite longtime collaborators, and I had a session earlier in the week with someone else who was also wonderful. [This first songwriter] was talking to me about her son, who was 10 or 11, and how he had his best friend, a boy he loved so much. She shared that she had an inclination that more love was going towards this friend and was coming back to him [than] he could even really communicate. 

It reminded me so deeply and immediately of so many different experiences growing up: having straight friends in high school and middle school, who you just love and who aren't doing anything wrong, but just by virtue of chemicals and how we're born, you develop feelings that just can't be reciprocated. [That's] such a special kind of melancholy. It's no one's fault, and I hadn't heard that strain of unrequited love and that particular type of melancholy expressed in a song. 

The next day, I went in with Alex and pitched them a song, and they're queer as well and understood the perspective, so it came out very quickly.

What about queer love do you find most challenging to articulate?

Developing feelings for people that just don't have it in their blood to feel the same way is a uniquely queer experience, [as is] boundarylessness both positively and negatively. It's very particular to queer love in the sense that there are a lot less societal examples, and sort of prerequisites, for what queer relationships look like or shouldn't be. Which is so freeing and wonderful and makes for a really beautiful, honest relationship. Still, it's also a little scary because you're flying blind in a way that is very particular to being a queer person. 

There's an inherent sort of rebellion and statement that you have to be making every day when you're out in the world with your partner as a queer person because there remain so many people who are intolerant, don't understand, and are still fearful and judgmental. It requires an extra bit of courage just to engage in the relationship.

You have a three-week residency at New York City's Palace Theatre, where legends like Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, and Judy Garland performed and will tour afterward.  How are you feeling as you prepare for these concerts?

When I finish the record and sit on it, it exists in limbo; I start to second-guess it, feel like I'm losing my connection to it, or forget. I don't feel like I'm in the same place as I was when I wrote these things because they're so intimate. 

But for me, the whole shebang has always been getting to perform live, and that's just my greatest joy. The songs are the most mine when I'm singing them live. I also love sharing music with people, and hearing in person and online conversations, about how it applies to their lives, how it reminds them of things, and how they use it. The tour is always the part where I'm the most in love with the album, and when the tour ends, I'm ready to let it out into the world and say goodbye for a minute.

Beyond the risk of trying something new in your career, what roles do failure, trial, and error play in your creative process or other parts of your life?

For every song I've written that I love or even come out, there are eight to 10 that I never want to see in the light of day. 

It's hard to find the good things until you throw everything at the wall, and if you're too afraid to fall, then you'll never really try in the first place. And I was privileged because I started working quite young; things went from A to B to C in the sense that they went steadily. As I get older, I learn that a career is more about this longer journey that is not at all linear. Now that I have some hindsight, it's easy to appreciate the down moments and the valleys because that's the only way you recognize when something is going well. I try to be grateful for those moments of failure or misstep when they come because it's an essential part of being an artist — not the funnest part always, but necessary. 

You'll be the keynote speaker at the 2024 GRAMMY U Conference for young professionals. What do you want to share most with conference attendees?

I must share my transparency and experiences and try to help learn by failure and success. I've found, in all facets, that specificity begets universality, and I'm trying to be as specifically honest about my role in how I approached songwriting in my own artistry — whether that's something someone will directly connect to, create a tangential connection to something else, or be an example of something that doesn't work for someone. 

Art is so tailor-made, so it's just about sharing ideas and seeing what sticks.

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