Women's History Month: Meet Two Women Advocates Devoted To Creating Music — And Defending It

Yolanda Adams and Rep. Lois Frankel

Photo: Leigh Vogel/WireImage for The Recording Academy

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Women's History Month: Meet Two Women Advocates Devoted To Creating Music — And Defending It

This Women's History Month, we're reflecting on the continual advocacy efforts of two women and what makes them stand out in the music industry. Ledisi and Yolanda Adams have both made waves in the music industry through their talent and dedication to cre

Advocacy/Mar 29, 2022 - 10:58 pm

Women's History Month is here again, and we're opening up the conversation through the lens of advocacy for all music people.

To kick it off, why not meditate on the advocacy efforts of two women who stand tall in the often male-dominated music industry?

Meet Ledisi and Yolanda Adams, who have made waves in the music industry through their creative outpourings and tireless devotion to creator's rights.

Ledisi — A Towering Vocalist & Voice For Creators

As a GRAMMY Award winner — and a 2022 GRAMMY nominee for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album — Ledisi not only works hard on her music, but also for the entire music community.

She has participated in the GRAMMYs on the Hill Awards and Advocacy Day, works as the president of the Academy's L.A. Chapter, and remains outspoken on the importance of music education and using one's voice to help others.

In 2021, Ledisi discussed how she previously felt uncomfortable staking a claim in the advocacy space. But after participating in a GRAMMY U panel for the San Francisco Chapter, her perspective changed — and she realized there is far more to the Recording Academy than handing out awards.

Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Ledisi. Photo: Paul Morigi/WireImage for NARAS​

"I can proudly say I am an Advocate for the Arts, and it started here with the Recording Academy. I have found so much joy in helping my beloved music community," she said. "In my first GRAMMYs On The Hill, I walked alongside my peers lobbying in the halls of Congress using my little voice — [one] that shocks sometimes, [but] still, people listened.

As Ledisi recalled, she left with the realization that the Recording Academy's essence is artists and artistry. "It's creators like me who advocate for artist rights and their legacy," she added, "for fair representation, diversity and the passion to preserve the history of all music creators."

Read More: Anthony Hamilton To Ledisi: 60th GRAMMY Nominees Go To Bat For Music Creators

In 2015, Ledisi came to D.C. to both perform at the GRAMMYs on the Hill Awards and participate in the Advocacy Day that followed.

When asked about her role as an advocate in an interview, Ledisi replied: "Nothing in music is free. Everything has a cost, and as long as we continue to have outdated laws that don't reflect the times and it affects creators, we will never be 'free.'"

Read More: Celebrating GRAMMY Nominees Who Advocated For Creators' Rights

In 2018, Ledisi spoke out for SB-933, or California's Arts for Every Student Act. While, unfortunately, it didn't make its way to law, the underlying message — and her sentiment in support of it — remain impactful.

Why did Ledisi stump for the bill? Because "children deserve the opportunity to nurture their love of the arts," she said.

Ledisi also touched on key qualities that arts education instills in students: collaboration, communication, critical thinking, creativity, and encouraging others to innovate and persevere.

Read More: Ledisi Weighs In On The Importance Of Music Education

On a collegiate level, in 2020, Ledisi partnered with former First Lady Michelle Obama's Reach Higher Initiative and GRAMMY U to help students reach their goals in the music industry.

Oh, and as for SB-933? Granted, it may not have passed back in 2018. But this year, California has a fresh opportunity to drastically improve arts education statewide — if the California Arts and Music in Schools ballot initiative becomes law.

Yolanda Adams — A Gospel Great Demanding Fair Pay

In 2019, Yolanda Adams was honored at GRAMMYs On The Hill for her dedication to advocating for the rights of artists.

She's not only a gospel singer-songwriter and four-time GRAMMY winner — she's consistently been a champion for creator's rights. Through a variety of channels, Yolanda has demonstrated her commitment to music advocacy time and time again.

Adams has been the Co-Chair of the National Advocacy Committee since 2020. This committee works to determine specific policy positions of the Recording Academy and advance the interests of all music creators.

As chair, she has worked with the Academy's Advocacy team in Washington, D.C., to advocate for legislation that would enhance the rights of creators such as the HITS Act and American Music Fairness Act.

Read More: Yolanda Adams To Co-Chair Recording Academy's National Advocacy Committee

In 2020, Yolanda Adams testified in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Intellectual Property with the theme: "How Does The DMCA Contemplate Limitations and Exceptions Like Fair Use?"

Her testimony highlighted the importance of artists receiving compensation and giving permission for usage of their music — especially when the pandemic ground live music to a halt.

Adams also spoke about the need to pass legislation that would put an end to AM-FM radio being able to play music without giving compensation to artists. This is what the American Music Fairness Act — introduced in June of 2021 — would do.

"When we can't perform, we try to make part of our living from our recordings. In the digital landscape, where streams only bring fractions of a penny to the creators, we hope to monetize every use," Adams said during the hearing. "This is where fair use comes in."

"When you hear a debate about fair use, it's typically about monetization. And that's important to me and my fellow Recording Academy members," she continued. "If someone's claim of fair use reduces the artists' ability to earn a living, it should be treated as infringement, plain and simple."

Adams not only advocated at a national level, but statewide as well. In 2018 she joined the Recording Academy in Texas for the Texas Chapter Advocacy Day where she and other Academy members met with state lawmakers to highlight the importance of artists' rights within their state.

Read More: Texas Chapter Advocacy Day Unites Music Champions in the Lone Star State

She also participated in the 7th annual District Advocate Day in August of 2020. Although this day was filled with virtual meetings rather than in person, it nonetheless was crucial in getting Members of Congress aware of the issues at hand—including providing relief for shuttered venues and artists who were impacted by the pandemic.

Adams also participated in the Academy's 7th annual District Advocate Day on Aug. 12 [2020], advocating alongside nearly 2,000 music professionals for critical support for the music community as it continues dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We're going to keep on fighting so we can make sure terrestrial radio gives us what we rightfully earned," she said, "and make sure the next generations of artists don't feel that they have to play their music underground."

Keep checking RecordingAcademy.com and GRAMMY.com throughout Women's History Month to learn how women artists and advocates have fought for all music creators throughout the years — and how they're just getting started.

Creators & Champions For Creators: These 2022 GRAMMYs Award Show Nominees Are Also Advocates For The Music Industry

A Victory In Tennessee: Governor Bill Lee Signs The ELVIS Act Into Law

Photo: Brandon Hull

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A Victory In Tennessee: Governor Bill Lee Signs The ELVIS Act Into Law

The signing ceremony hailed as the "coolest bill signing ever" by Gov. Lee, took place at Robert's Western World, an iconic Honky Tonk in downtown Nashville.

Advocacy/Mar 26, 2024 - 04:53 pm

On Thursday, March 21, the Recording Academy celebrated an extraordinary moment for Tennessee's vibrant music community as Governor Bill Lee signed the groundbreaking ELVIS Act into law. The signing ceremony hailed as the "coolest bill signing ever" by Gov. Lee, took place at Robert's Western World, an iconic Honky Tonk in downtown Nashville, showcasing the deep connection between music and culture in the state.

Surrounded by Country music stars Luke Bryan and Chris Janson, Gov. Lee emphasized the significance of protecting musicians, acknowledging their role in shaping Tennessee's identity and history. "This industry has helped forge and created the identity of this state" stated Gov. Lee, "and what you've done is not only created and forged our identity and our history here, but much of what is happening in this country."

When discussing the implications of what this legislation means for creators across the state, Gov. Lee highlighted the dangers of AI now being prevented. "[AI] can steal those gifts, it can impersonate those gifts, it can subsequently create fake works that rob those artists of their intellectual property that has made their success, and we can't let that happen. Tennessee should lead on this issue, and we are, this is the first bill of its kind."

Also attending the signing ceremony were Gebre Waddell, the Academy's national Secretary/Treasurer and Chair of the Tennessee Entertainment Commission, artists Natalie Grant and Matt Maher, who testified in support of the ELVIS Act before the Tennessee legislature, and additional artists and elected leaders representing the Academy's Memphis and Nashville Chapters.

In January, the Recording Academy joined Gov. Lee, House Majority Leader William Lamberth and Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, and dozens of artists, songwriters, music executives, and industry groups to introduce the Ensuring Likeness, Voice, and Image Security (ELVIS) Act. The Recording Academy's support for the ELVIS Act, including advocacy days and mobilization of music creators, played a pivotal role in the bill's success. By uniting Tennessee's artists and legislators, the Recording Academy spearheaded a collective effort to combat AI fraud and safeguard the authenticity of music creation.

Tennessee has a booming music community that supports more than 61,000 jobs across the state and contributes $5.8 billion to the state's GDP. During the signing ceremony, Chris Janson highlighted his gratitude for this legislation supporting the growing music community in Tennessee. "This is a serious thing. I am a songwriter first; I've always said that; I'm an artist second. I love what I do, I'm grateful for my job, and I am so grateful for leadership who cares." Janson directly thanked the members of Tennessee's General Assembly for supporting this legislation. "We are grateful for you guys protecting our community," declared Janson, "Nashville is nothing without the music community."

The signing of the ELVIS Act marked a historic milestone as the first legislation in the nation focused on safeguarding the core elements of artistic identity, including voice and likeness, in the context of AI. This groundbreaking law updates Tennessee's existing right to publicity, extending protections to songwriters, performers, and all individuals' voices from exploitation by artificial intelligence.

The swift progress of the ELVIS Act through the Tennessee legislature reflects the industry's urgent need for such protections. "The Recording Academy celebrates the passage of the ELVIS Act as a groundbreaking achievement in the effort to protect human creators in the age of AI," said Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr. "This milestone represents the power of collaboration, and it was a privilege to work with our partners in the Human Artistry Campaign, Governor Lee, and the Tennessee state legislature to move the ELVIS Act forward. Today is just the beginning — as AI continues to develop, the Recording Academy and our members will continue to support meaningful legislation across the country that uplifts music people and human creativity."

Looking ahead, the ELVIS Act sets a precedent for future legislation at both the state and federal level. As the Recording Academy remains committed to supporting and protecting human creativity, the ELVIS Act serves as a beacon of hope for music creators everywhere, ensuring a future where artistic expression thrives free from exploitation.

How The Recording Academy Is Redoubling Its Efforts To Protect Creators From AI Risks

How The Recording Academy Is Redoubling Its Efforts To Protect Creators From AI Risks
Jeff Becker, Senator Mary Edly-Allen and Dani Deahl

Photo courtesy of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus

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How The Recording Academy Is Redoubling Its Efforts To Protect Creators From AI Risks

A piece of legislation in Illinois addresses a pressing concern for musicians in Illinois – the rise of digital replicas that impersonate their unique voices and likenesses without consent.

Advocacy/Mar 20, 2024 - 01:48 pm

The Recording Academy continues to work across the country to protect creators from being exploited or manipulated by artificial intelligence (AI).

Last week, attention was focused on the Illinois General Assembly, where hearings in both the House and Senate dove into HB 4875/SB 3325, critical legislation protecting the right of musicians and artists to control their image, likeness, and voice.  The legislation, which has been championed by the Recording Academy since its inception, is sponsored by Rep. Gong-Gershowitz and Senator Edly-Allen and seeks to address the challenges posed by AI for creatives.

Among the witnesses who testified at the two hearings were Recording Academy Chicago Chapter Board Members Jeff Becker and Dani Deahl. Becker is an attorney and Chair of the Entertainment and Media Law Practice Group at Swanson, Martin & Bell and Deahl is a prominent artist, DJ, and producer based in Chicago.

HB 4875/SB 3325 represents a crucial step towards modernizing Illinois's Right of Publicity Act for the AI era. By granting additional enforcement rights and remedies, the bill aims to shield musicians from exploitation by generative AI systems. While existing copyright laws offer some protection, the amendments directly address gaps in safeguarding an artist's name, image, likeness, and voice.

During his testimony, Becker emphasized the urgency of updating existing laws to accommodate the rapid advancements in technology. He expressed, "As technology has evolved, our law must adapt to keep up. Specifically, artificial intelligence has provided new ways for people to have their image, likeness, and voice exploited in a manner that our current law didn't contemplate."

Deahl echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of safeguards to prevent the abuse of AI technology. "As we embrace AI's potential, we must also be prepared for the risks it presents that are already here. The clearest example of these risks is the ability of AI to steal people's images and voices. I myself have had the unsettling experience of hearing my voice replicated by AI, delivering messages I never endorsed. This violation of identity is a profound invasion of personal autonomy."

The legislation addresses a pressing concern for musicians in Illinois – the rise of digital replicas that impersonate their unique voices and likenesses without consent. This phenomenon poses a significant threat to artistic integrity and individual rights.

"Nothing is more fundamental to each of us than our identities, and everyone should have the right to decide what words come out of their mouths and how their likeness is used," Deahl remarked.  

During questioning in the House hearing for HB 4875, Becker clarified the legislation stating, "The violation is utilizing technology to imitate somebody else. If you're trying to sound like somebody else and make money selling music sounding like that other person, that's the violation." 

The bills received overwhelming support in both committees and will next move to the House floor for a vote by the full Illinois House of Representatives.

Illinois boasts a rich and diverse music community, contributing significantly to the state's cultural and economic landscape. With nearly 65,000 jobs supported by the industry and a GDP contribution exceeding $4 billion annually, the stakes for protecting artists' rights are high. From iconic venues to world-renowned festivals like Lollapalooza, Illinois has nurtured legendary talents and continues to be a hub of musical innovation.

Join the Recording Academy in supporting the passage of HB 4875/SB 3325, a critical piece of legislation to safeguard the integrity and rights of Illinois musicians. Send a message to Illinois lawmakers through our action center. Your support has the opportunity to ensure artists remain in control over their identities and creative output in the age of AI.

Advocacy In Annapolis: How The Recording Academy Fought For Freedom Of Expression In The Great State Of Maryland

Advocacy In Annapolis: How The Recording Academy Fought For Freedom Of Expression In The Great State Of Maryland
Lisa Kimmey Winans, Montana Miller, Sharon Ingram, Delegate Marlon Amprey, Andre Hopson, Shelby Blondell, and Tracey Lee

Photo: Montana Miller

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Advocacy In Annapolis: How The Recording Academy Fought For Freedom Of Expression In The Great State Of Maryland

Recording Academy members from across Maryland gathered in Annapolis for an dynamic advocacy day in the service of HB. 1429/SB. 662, Protecting the Admissibility of Creative Expression (PACE) Act.

Advocacy/Mar 11, 2024 - 05:52 pm

Last week, Recording Academy members from across Maryland gathered in Annapolis for an exciting advocacy day to champion HB. 1429/SB. 662, Protecting the Admissibility of Creative Expression (PACE) Act. Introduced by Delegate Marlon Amprey and Senator Nick Charles, the PACE Act aims to safeguard artistic expression and uphold the First Amendment rights of Maryland's dynamic music community.

Maryland's music industry stands as a pillar for the state's economic and cultural identity with over 22,000 jobs created and a substantial $1.4 billion contribution to the state's GDP. However, despite its economic significance, challenges persist for artists whose creative works are misinterpreted or misused in criminal trials around the country and in Maryland courtrooms. 

To kick off the day, Delegate Amprey, Senator Charles, the Recording Academy, and Kevin Liles of 300 Elektra Entertainment hosted a press conference to emphasize the significance of the PACE Act in protecting the rights of Maryland artists. The press conference served as a rallying point for advocates, highlighting the critical need to pass this legislation.

"We want to make sure and safeguard creative expression here in the state of Maryland," stated Amprey. "Unfortunately, across the nation, we have seen an uptick of creative expression in lyrics being used against artists wrongfully in court as a form of evidence."

Lisa Winans, GRAMMY nominated Gospel artist and a member of the Recording Academy echoed the Delegate’s expression as she spoke on behalf of the Academy.

“As a gospel artist, I understand the importance of having the freedom to create music that is an authentic expression of my beliefs without fear of repercussions” voiced Winans. “Artists in any genre should be able to express their creativity through music without fear of reprisal from the justice system simply because of the content of their art or because of biases against their chosen art form.”

Following the press conference, Recording Academy advocates engaged in over a dozen meetings with Maryland state legislators and their staff to garner support for the PACE Act. During these meetings, advocates expressed the importance of passing HB. 1429/SB. 662 to protect music and other forms of creative expression.

The misuse of artistic expression has been a prevalent issue not only in Maryland but across the United States. Instances where prosecutors weaponize lyrics against artists during legal proceedings undermine their artistic integrity and perpetuate biases within the justice system. The PACE Act limits the use of an artist's creative work in trials, ensuring freedom of expression without fear of legal repercussions.   

One of the key aspects of the PACE Act is its emphasis on shifting the burden of proof to prosecutors, ensuring that the relevance and admissibility of creative works in legal proceedings are thoroughly evaluated. By doing so, the legislation aims to prevent the unjust weaponization of artistic expression, particularly within marginalized communities who are disproportionately targeted by such practices.

The significance of passing the PACE Act extends beyond Maryland's borders. With only two other states, California and Louisiana, having passed similar legislation, Maryland has the opportunity to lead the nation in championing artistic and creative expression.

By enacting HB. 1429/SB. 662 into law, Maryland would set a precedent for other states to follow, ensuring that artists across the country can express themselves freely without fear of unjust repercussions.

The Recording Academy strongly supports the PACE Act as a solution to these challenges and applaud Delegate Amprey and Senator Charles for taking a stance for creatives in Maryland.

The State Of The ELVIS Act: Inside Nashville Hearings & Advocacy Day To Protect Artists’ Likenesses

Here’s What Went Down At The 5th Annual GRAMMY Advocacy Brunch Ahead Of The 2024 GRAMMYs
GRAMMY Advocacy Brunch

Photo: Maury Phillips

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Here’s What Went Down At The 5th Annual GRAMMY Advocacy Brunch Ahead Of The 2024 GRAMMYs

The significance of the GRAMMY Advocacy Brunch transcends a one-time gathering; it embodies a commitment to addressing crucial matters such as copyright protection, fair compensation, and freedom of expression throughout the year.

Advocacy/Feb 15, 2024 - 11:00 pm

Despite the rainy Los Angeles weather, the 5th annual GRAMMY Advocacy Brunch dazzled at the Sun Rose during this year's GRAMMY Week. Hosted by the Recording Academy’s Advocacy Department and GRAMMY-winning duo, Brothers Osborne, the Brunch serves as a fundraiser for the GRAMMY Fund for Music Creators, ensuring that the Recording Academy continues to champion the most pressing issues facing music creators on Capitol Hill and beyond.

The significance of the GRAMMY Advocacy Brunch transcends a one-time gathering; it embodies a commitment to addressing crucial matters such as copyright protection, fair compensation, and freedom of expression throughout the year. This annual fundraiser showcases the Recording Academy's unwavering dedication to effecting lasting change on the policies that impact music and music makers.

This year, T.J. and John Osborne of Brothers Osborne co-hosted the event and joined Recording Academy’s Chief Advocacy and Public Policy Officer, Todd Dupler, in a conversation about their advocacy efforts and anticipation for the 66th GRAMMY Awards taking place the following day.  The country duo has garnered significant acclaim in the music industry, including a total of twelve GRAMMY nominations. They won their first GRAMMY for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for their single "Younger Me" at the 64th Annual GRAMMY Awards in 2022. At the 66th GRAMMY Awards, Brothers Osborne received two nominations for Best Country Album and Best Country Duo/Group Performance.

Brothers Osborne’s presence at the GRAMMY Advocacy Brunch highlights their commitment to using their platform to advocate for meaningful change for musicians and artists alike. Their participation served as a testament to the power of artists to effect positive change and accentuated the importance of advocacy within the music community.

Other notable guests included Taylor Hanson, President of the Recording Academy’s Texas Chapter and member of the three-time GRAMMY nominated  band HANSON. Adding to the prestigious lineup was GRAMMY winner Tony Succar, a Florida Chapter Governor and multifaceted musician and producer excelling in salsa, jazz, and pop genres. Succar is also a two-time Latin GRAMMY winner and a five-time Latin GRAMMY nominee, and was nominated at the 66th GRAMMY Awards for Best Tropical Latin Album.

During his conversation with Brothers Osborne, Dupler highlighted pivotal legislation like the Save Our Stages Act — a landmark federal investment in the arts that totaled approximately sixteen billion dollars and which the Brothers were major advocates for.

As part of their advocacy efforts and in response to the challenges posed by COVID-19 and shutdowns, Brothers Osborne participated in a virtual concert to lend their support to this legislation and to live music venues affected by the pandemic. Dupler also asked the Brothers Osborne about their recent experiences talking about the importance of mental health, and their nominated song, “Nobody’s Nobody,” which speaks to themes of inclusivity and belonging.

The program also included Michael Lewan, Managing Director of Advocacy & Public Policy, discussing the Advocacy team's extensive efforts over the past year, spanning diverse areas such as AI, ticketing, and federal and state issues. "As a result of these partnerships, the Recording Academy and our members serve as trusted authorities, offering crucial perspectives on policy discussions that impact the arts and the arts community," Lewan declared, highlighting significant advocacy collaborations from 2023. These included commemorating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop at Vice President Harris' residence in Washington, D.C., and partnering with the U.S. Department of State to launch the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative. 

Transitioning to State Advocacy, Lewan emphasized the progress made across thirteen states nationwide in advancing positive pro-music legislation and stopping harmful legislation for the music community. The efforts encompassed ten chapter activations, ranging from board letters to virtual grassroots actions and in-person meetings. Additionally, in 2023, five bills advanced across the nation, notably the passage of the RAP Act into law in Louisiana. Lewan concluded his remarks highlighting that 2,500 Academy members actively engaged in advocacy work throughout 2023.

The GRAMMY Advocacy Brunch not only brings together music makers, advocates and creatives but also serves as a catalyst for raising funds to support the Recording Academy's critical advocacy efforts year-round. Through engaging discussions, networking opportunities, and a shared commitment to advancing the interests of music creators, the brunch exemplifies the collaborative spirit at the heart of the Recording Academy's advocacy endeavors.

How The Recording Academy Tackled The Evolving Landscape Of Music & AI During GRAMMY Week 2024