The Recording Academy Will Increase Diversity With Nearly 2,000 New Members
The Grammy Awards organisation has received criticism in recent years for its lack of diversity, and in response, it has taken steps to address the problem.
According to the president and CEO of the organisation, Harvey Mason Jr, the induction of nearly 2,000 new members will increase the diversity of the Recording Academy.
He recently discussed the most recent initiatives to promote diversity, at the Academy’s annual speech. Mason welcomed the new members to the organization during the event and he also responded to queries from the audience.
He stated that they now actively recruit potential members and send invitations to people who will assist them in having a more diversified, active and pertinent membership base.
“We strive for diversity not merely to give certain groups of people or musical genres space at the table [that has been] historically denied them – though that’s definitely part of our motivation. The truth is whenever you have diverse inputs into a decision-making process, you tend to arrive at better outcomes.”
In a statement, he added: “After years of listening, learning and putting in the work, we’re beginning to see results of our efforts to diversify the Academy’s membership come to life.”
“When we have diverse people representing all corners of the industry contributing unique perspectives, progress is achieved at a rapid pace. The journey is just beginning and I can’t wait to work alongside our new and existing members to build on the Academy’s commitment to effecting real, meaningful change.”
In addition, 47% of the members inducted this year were under the age of 40, according to a recent report from the Academy. 34% of the new members are female and 44% come from “traditionally underrepresented communities.”
Additionally, new members were not permitted to reveal certain demographic information, with 24% of new members withholding their ethnicity.
The Grammys will return to Los Angeles in 2023 after the 2022 ceremony in Las Vegas. Following two years of postponed shows due to the COVID-19 epidemic, the event will resume its customary winter timing, taking place in February.
New awards like Songwriter Of The Year (Non-Classical), Best Alternative Music Performance, Best Score Soundtrack For Video Games And Other Interactive Media, as well as a Special Merit Award for Best Song For Social Change will all be introduced to the event in 2023.
—Silviya.Y
