The Recording Academy has officially commenced the newest cycle of its GRAMMY U Mentoring Program for the 2025–2026 period, receiving significant backing from Amazon Music. This essential initiative is strategically designed to connect emerging musical talent—including artists, producers, and managers—with established industry professionals. The core focus remains on cultivating sustainable and robust career pathways within the intricate landscape of the music business.
The GRAMMY U structure operates as a dynamic ecosystem for cross-generational knowledge transfer, aligning with The Recording Academy's objective to nurture the legacy of recorded art. This mentoring program encompasses a six-month, in-person professional development experience. Guidance provided to participants extends beyond purely creative domains, delving into crucial areas such as intellectual property rights, the application of professional ethical standards, the development of viable business models, and forging the psychological resilience necessary for success in this demanding industry.
Amazon Music's support underscores the convergence of art and technology in the contemporary music ecosystem. As a key player in music streaming, Amazon Music offers vital digital perspectives to the mentees, aiding their understanding of listener behavior trends and the effective utilization of promotional tools in the digital era. This structured approach contributes essentially to the global soundscape by instilling a sense of continuity, ensuring that foundational lessons are preserved as new creators emerge.
The commitment to continuity is exemplified by the participation of established professionals, such as attorney Amanda J. Alasauskas and Michelle M. Wahl from Swanson, Martin & Bell, LLP, who are selected as mentors for the 2025–2026 term, guiding participants through their professional development until May 1, 2026. Furthermore, the 2025–2026 cycle marks the 20th anniversary of GRAMMY U. In celebration, members can, for the first time, submit their music for consideration in the 68th GRAMMY Awards via the Online Entry Process (OEP), which runs briefly from July 16 to July 30, 2025.
As part of The Recording Academy's broader mission to ensure recorded art remains a thriving component of shared cultural heritage, the program historically connects students with industry experts to provide perspectives beyond the classroom. By involving professionals with decades of accumulated expertise, such as composer Edie Hill, who returns as a mentor for the same period (Fall 2025 through Spring 2026), the initiative focuses on forging a strong foundation for the music professionals of the future.
