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
