The Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) made a big splash during Grammy Week with a star-studded lineup of events and panels aimed at empowering and celebrating Black artists in the music industry. From an AI panel to a Cardi B masterclass, and a dinner co-hosted by legendary producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, BMAC’s events were a testament to the organization’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the music world.
One of the highlights of BMAC’s Grammy Week slate was the AI panel, which brought together some of the most innovative minds in the industry to discuss the role of artificial intelligence in music creation and distribution. The panel, moderated by BMAC co-founder and CEO, Binta Niambi Brown, featured powerhouse executives like Roc Nation’s Ty Stiklorius and YouTube’s Tuma Basa, as well as Grammy-winning artist H.E.R. Together, they explored the potential of AI to revolutionize the music industry and the importance of ensuring that Black voices are represented in this technological advancement.
In addition to the AI panel, BMAC also hosted a masterclass with none other than Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B. The “WAP” hitmaker shared her journey to success and offered valuable insights and advice to aspiring Black artists. She emphasized the importance of staying true to oneself and never compromising one’s art for commercial success. Cardi B’s unapologetic attitude and her ability to break barriers in a predominantly male-dominated industry served as a source of inspiration for many in attendance.
But the excitement didn’t stop there. BMAC also organized a dinner co-hosted by legendary producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, who have worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Janet Jackson, Prince, and Mariah Carey. The dinner, which was attended by industry heavyweights like Clarence Avant and Sylvia Rhone, provided an intimate setting for artists and executives to connect and share their experiences. It was a night of celebration and camaraderie, as everyone came together to honor the achievements of Black artists and discuss ways to further empower them.
BMAC’s Grammy Week slate was a reflection of the organization’s mission to promote diversity and inclusivity in the music industry. Founded in 2020, BMAC is a coalition of Black music professionals, including artists, executives, and activists, who are dedicated to creating a more equitable and inclusive industry. With events like the AI panel, Cardi B masterclass, and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis co-hosted dinner, BMAC is making its mark and pushing for change in an industry that has long been plagued by systemic racism.
The events also served as a reminder of the impact and influence of Black music on the global stage. From jazz and blues to hip-hop and R&B, Black music has been a driving force in shaping popular culture and inspiring artists around the world. Yet, despite its undeniable contributions, Black music and artists continue to face discrimination and lack of representation in the industry. BMAC’s Grammy Week slate was a step towards addressing these issues and creating a more inclusive environment for Black artists to thrive.
The success of BMAC’s events during Grammy Week is a testament to the power of unity and collaboration. By bringing together industry leaders, artists, and activists, BMAC is creating a platform for dialogue, education, and action. The organization’s efforts have already made an impact, with major record labels like Warner Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment committing to making changes in their policies and practices to promote diversity and inclusion.
As we reflect on BMAC’s Grammy Week slate, we are reminded of the importance of supporting and uplifting Black voices in the music industry. It is through initiatives like these that we can create a more equitable and inclusive industry, where all artists, regardless of their race or background, have a fair chance at success. BMAC’s message is clear: Black music matters, and it’s time for the industry to recognize and celebrate its contributions.
