Earlier this month, the Recording Academy Advocacy team hosted its inaugural Latin GRAMMY Policy Briefings, a groundbreaking initiative that united policymakers and Latin music creators to tackle key policy issues impacting the Latin music community. Held as part of Latin GRAMMY Week, which culminated in the 2024 Latin GRAMMY Awards show, these events celebrated the vibrancy of Latin music while laying the foundation for meaningful advocacy at all levels of government.
Taking place on Saturday, Nov. 9, and Monday, Nov. 11, the briefings provided a vital platform for dialogue on the challenges and legislative priorities facing music creators. The sessions highlighted critical issues like artificial intelligence, music education, and arts funding — areas essential to fostering a thriving creative ecosystem.
Saturday: A Roundtable of Creativity and Advocacy
Latin GRAMMYs Briefings panel | Aaron Davidson/Getty Images
The first day of the briefings began with a spirited roundtable discussion at Peermusic Studio, moderated by the Recording Academy’s Chief Advocacy and Public Policy Officer, Todd Dupler. The panel featured an impressive lineup of music creators and industry leaders:
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Gonzalo Rubalcaba, three-time GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY-winning pianist
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Jon Secada, two-time GRAMMY winner and Latin GRAMMY-winning best-selling singer/songwriter
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Maria Elisa Ayerbe, Latin GRAMMY-winning sound engineer
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Luis Enrique, Latin GRAMMY-winning artist
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Julio Bagué, Latin GRAMMY-winning producer
These esteemed panelists were joined by attendees including artists Aymee Nuviola and Chelsey Green, Vice President of the Recording Academy's National Board of Trustees. Together, they explored the intersection of policy and music creation, sharing passionate insights about how legislative issues shape both the art and business of music.
Artificial intelligence emerged as a key topic, sparking conversations about its potential to both enhance and disrupt the music industry. The discussion also touched on the pressing need for increased arts funding and greater access to music education, emphasizing their roles in nurturing future generations of creators.
The day concluded with a reception that allowed participants to connect on a more personal level, fostering collaboration and continuing the dialogue sparked during the roundtable.
Jon Secada, guest, Aymee Nuviola, and Gonzalo Rubalcaba | Courtesy of the Recording Academy
Monday: Behind-the-Scenes Access for Policymakers
On Monday, the briefings shifted focus to South Florida, where elected officials and their staff gathered at Greenberg Traurig’s Miami office. The day began with discussions on the importance of legislative support for music creators, followed by an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Kesaya Center during rehearsals for the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs.
Participants explored every corner of the production process, from stage setup to backstage operations and even got a look at the exclusive gift lounge. They also had the unique opportunity to meet with Latin GRAMMY telecast producers Terry Lickona and Alfredo Lopez, who offered insights into the intricate coordination required to deliver a live show of such magnitude.
A Celebration of Music and Advocacy
The inaugural Latin GRAMMY Policy Briefings were more than just an opportunity to celebrate the vibrancy of Latin music—they were a call to action. By fostering open discussions, providing firsthand experiences, and connecting policymakers with creators, these events underscored the importance of addressing the challenges facing the music community.
Through initiatives like these, the Recording Academy Advocacy team ensures that the voices of music creators are heard and amplified in the legislative process. The Latin GRAMMY Policy Briefings marked an important step forward in advocating for a thriving music industry that supports and uplifts creators at every level.
