The Black Music Collective (BMC), a newly launched initiative by the Recording Academy, has announced its inaugural GRAMMY Week event in celebration of Black creators' and professionals' countless contributions to the music industry. Taking place Wednesday, March 10, starting at 5 p.m. PST/8 p.m. EST and hosted live on GRAMMY.com, the virtual event is open to the public; no RSVP or registration is needed.
The historic event, presented by Mastercard and hosted by the BMC Executive Sponsor Jeriel Johnson, will feature an array of esteemed Black music creators and professionals known for amplifying Black voices in music and beyond.
The BMC event will feature unforgettable performances by some of today's biggest stars, including GRAMMY Award-winning artists Yolanda Adams, H.E.R., PJ Morton, and first-time GRAMMY-nominated rapper and producer duo Freddie Gibbs & Alchemist.
In addition to performances, the event will feature intimate reflections and mogul moments from industry leaders, including Executive Vice President of Business & Legal Affairs for North America for Universal Music Group Jeff Harleston; songwriting maverick Jimmy Jam; legendary record producer Quincy Jones; former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BET Networks and businesswoman Debra Lee; Chair and Interim President/CEO of the Recording Academy Harvey Mason jr.; and BMC Chair and Atlantic Records Executive Riggs Morales.
Lastly, powerful fireside chats with cultural icons regarding the Black experience in the wake of social justice will be led by Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer of the Recording Academy Valeisha Butterfield Jones; Los Angeles Chapter Governor and recording artist John Legend; renowned activist Tamika D. Mallory; singer-songwriter Janelle Monáe; and actor, writer and producer Issa Rae.
The topics to be discussed during the programming include the Impact of Black Music, The Culture Shifting Power of Black Music, Impact of Black Women in Music, and the Power, Purpose, and Progress of the State of Black Music.
"As the first of its kind, we created this event with every intention to amplify Black voices and each of our experiences within the industry," Harvey Mason jr. said . "The BMC will continue to foster a space for members and industry professionals to educate and elevate Black creators during GRAMMY Week and beyond."
"We are thrilled to announce this virtual program as the BMC continues to celebrate Black music and those who share our mission to foster and accelerate Black representation, equity and inclusion throughout the music industry," Morales said. "The Black Music Collective will continue to tailor events for Black creators to feel uplifted and supported and we are excited for this GRAMMY Week kickoff."
Stay up to date on the BMC's progress here.
