From AI Protections to Ticketing Reform: How GRAMMY Nominees & Members Led 2024’s Advocacy Wins

As the creative community unites to rebuild after the devastating Los Angeles fires, the Recording Academy is proud to have raised $24 million over GRAMMY weekend for wildfire relief, showcasing the resilience and dedication of its members and allies. As 2025 begins, highlighting the music industry's strength and commitment in the wake of these destructive wildfires, the Recording Academy reflects on the remarkable advocacy achievements of 2024—made possible by the unwavering efforts of over 3,000 members who championed key initiatives, expanding the Academy’s influence in Washington, D.C., and state capitals nationwide.

In total, the Recording Academy spearheaded nine advocacy days in 2024, connecting members with policymakers on Capitol Hill, in state legislatures, and at local congressional offices. These efforts led to significant milestones, including progress on AI safeguards, ticketing reform, and the limitation of using creative expression as evidence in court.

Here are some highlights from a groundbreaking year in music advocacy:

AI Protections At State & Federal Levels

In March, Tennessee became the first state to pass a law protecting individuals from AI misuse, thanks to the Recording Academy's support. The ELVIS Act inspired similar legislation in Illinois and California, setting a precedent for protecting creators.

In February, the Recording Academy hosted the House Judiciary Committee in Los Angeles for a special GRAMMY Week congressional hearing on AI. Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr. and GRAMMY winner Lainey Wilson testified as witnesses, highlighting the urgent need to address AI-related exploitation in the music industry. This dedication culminated in the introduction of the NO FAKES Act — a federal, consensus-driven bill aimed at protecting individuals from the misuse of AI. The Recording Academy continues to champion the passage of the NO FAKES Act and similar legislation, ensuring stronger safeguards for creators and their work.

Ticketing Reform Advances

The Recording Academy drove forward critical ticketing reforms in 2024, securing legislative victories in states like Maryland and Minnesota and propelling federal action with the introduction of the Fans First Act and the House's passage of the TICKET Act.

These legislative efforts aim to ensure equitable access to tickets and prevent exploitative practices. The Recording Academy remains steadfast in advancing these reforms to safeguard artists and fans alike.

Music Advocacy Day

The 10th anniversary of Music Advocacy Day in October marked the Recording Academy’s largest grassroots activation to date. Over 2,100 Recording Academy members participated, connecting with hundreds of congressional offices to advocate for music creators. This historic turnout culminated in the Senate passing the American Music Tourism Act, a landmark achievement supporting local economies and music tourism.

GRAMMYs on the Hill & Future Forum

GRAMMYs on the Hill expanded into a weeklong celebration of music and advocacy, making it music’s biggest week in Washington, D.C. The program featured a special policy roundtable at the White House and the launch of the Future Forum, a policy summit that tackled key issues facing the music community, such as AI safeguards and ticketing reform.

Throughout the week, artists, songwriters, and producers — including Mark Ronson, The War and Treaty, Lauren Daigle, and Daniel Nigro — amplified these messages to policymakers. The program also included the GRAMMYs on the Hill Awards, celebrating advocacy champions and uniting the music community with lawmakers to address critical industry challenges.

Songwriters’ Termination Rights Protected

After years of advocacy, the US Copyright Office announced new rules in July to protect songwriters' termination rights with The MLC. This landmark decision was discussed in the first virtual Songwriters & Composers Wing Town Hall, co-produced with the Recording Academy.

These milestones demonstrate the immense impact of advocacy in shaping the music industry. The Recording Academy looks forward to building on these successes in 2025.

How You Can Get Involved

Support creators and join the advocacy effort by visiting our Advocacy page and using our Music Advocacy Action tool.