Recording Academy membership is one of the most impactful honors in music. Recording Academy members have the power to shape the music industry and foster a more inspiring, inclusive world for all creators and industry professionals. Active participation in the Academy's various divisions and initiatives — including voting for the annual GRAMMY Awards — allows artists, creators, and industry professionals to elevate the music world and ensure that music remains an indelible part of our culture.

The Recording Academy’s 2024 New Member Class invitees exemplify this commitment to music. This year’s invited class comprises invitations to more than 3,900 established music professionals spanning diverse backgrounds, genres and disciplines and representing a vibrant spectrum of ages, genders and ethnicities: Of the 2024 New Member Class invitees, 45% are women, 57% are people of color, and 47% are under the age of 40. With this year's new member invitees, the Recording Academy is on track to achieve its goal of adding 2,500 women Voting Members by 2025; the Academy is set to achieve this milestone later this year, one year ahead of schedule.

To celebrate the induction of our 2024 New Member Class, GRAMMY.com spoke to some new Academy members about their goals as new members and their plans for contributing to the music industry. Dive into their stories below and discover the impact they aspire to make in the music world.

IMPORTANT: 2024 New Member Class invitees must accept their membership invitation by Sunday, Sept. 15, in order to participate in First Round Voting for the 2025 GRAMMYs.

Learn more about the Recording Academy's membership and membership requirements. Read our Membership Resource Guide to learn more about the Recording Academy, its affiliates, and our membership and advocacy efforts.

Get Involved: Stay Connected To The Recording Academy With The My Academy Hub App: Access Key Deadlines, View Membership Information, Browse Official Academy Events & More

Leon Thomas 

What inspired you to join the Recording Academy?

I was inspired to join the Recording Academy because of its commitment to uplifting the music community, celebrating musical craft, and advocating for the rights of musical creatives. I wanted to be a part of an organization that is dedicated to making a positive impact on the music industry.

Recording Academy members can uplift the music community, celebrate musical craft, and advocate for the rights of musical creatives. How do you feel about participating in such impactful initiatives through your Recording Academy membership? What initiatives are you excited to participate in?  

Participating in impactful initiatives through my Recording Academy membership feels incredibly fulfilling. It's a privilege to contribute to initiatives that support and empower music creators. I am particularly excited to participate in initiatives that focus on diversity and inclusion in the music industry.

What change(s) do you strive to make in the music industry as a new member?

As a new member, I strive to advocate for fair compensation and recognition for all music creators, regardless of their background or genre. I believe in the importance of creating a more equitable and inclusive industry for all stakeholders.

How do you expect that your membership will make a difference in your music career?

I expect that my membership at the Recording Academy will provide me with valuable networking opportunities, industry insights, and a platform to amplify my voice as a music professional. I believe that being a member will open doors for collaboration and growth in my music career.

What excites you about the chance to contribute to the Recording Academy's evolution?

I am excited about the chance to contribute to the Recording Academy's evolution because it presents an opportunity to shape the future of the music industry. I look forward to being part of discussions and decisions that will drive positive change and progress in the industry.

What do you hope to gain from your experience as a Recording Academy member?

From my experience as a Recording Academy member, I hope to gain knowledge, connections, and inspiration that will help me grow as a music professional. I am eager to learn from industry leaders and fellow members to enhance my skills and understanding of the music business.

What does being an active member of the Recording Academy mean to you?

Being an active member of the Recording Academy means being part of a community that values creativity, innovation, and advocacy. It means having a voice in conversations that shape the music industry and being committed to supporting and uplifting fellow music creators. I am proud to be a member of an organization that stands for excellence and integrity in music. 

Get Involved: Music Advocacy Day Returns to Mark a Decade of Influencing Policy for Music Creators

310babii 

What inspired you to join the Recording Academy?  

When learning about the Academy, I was amazed and inspired by the list of great artists that came before me, and I thought to myself, “If this is where the legends are at, I wanna be here, too.”

Recording Academy members can uplift the music community, celebrate musical craft, and advocate for the rights of musical creatives. How do you feel about participating in such impactful initiatives through your Recording Academy membership? What initiatives are you excited to participate in?  

Yes, I am excited to participate. To whom much is given, much is required, and I'm ready to uplift and educate the young music community. I want to be an advocate for the rights of young creatives like myself, and I hope to leave an impact on my generation and those generations that follow.   

What change(s) do you strive to make in the music industry as a new member?  

I strive to show people of all ages that you can succeed in the music business independently, without a major record label, and go as far as you want to go. You can maintain creative control, own your masters, and still compete at the highest level. 

 How do you expect that your membership will make a difference in your music career?  

With me being a part of the Academy, I expect my membership to help me cross over into different genres through networking and meeting other members who are creatives, such as artists, writers and producers as well.  

What excites you about the chance to contribute to the Recording Academy's evolution?  

It excites me because I have a chance to leave my mark on the music industry for years to come, making sure my voice is heard, voting for the greats, and working toward accolades that push the industry forward [and open] doors for future members.  

What do you hope to gain from your experience as a Recording Academy member?  

I hope to continue to educate myself more. I never want to stop learning about the history of the music business, and I want to be able to meet the legends who have paved the way before me to thank them for what they've done for me and the impact they've had on my life.  

What does being an active member of the Recording Academy mean to you?  

Being an active member to me is a reminder that anything is possible, but also that there is more work to be done. I am now in a position to be recognized and heard among the most prestigious academies in the world. Let's get to work!  

Stay Connected: How The Recording Academy's GRAMMY GO Is Building A Global Online Learning Community & Elevating The Creative Class

Charm La'Donna 

What inspired you to join the Recording Academy?  

I have worked with artists and been a recording artist for a very long time. The Recording Academy has a history of advocating for performers and ensuring that music and the arts grow and thrive in our culture. It is important that the work we do keeps the arts accessible for future generations. 

Recording Academy members can uplift the music community, celebrate musical craft, and advocate for the rights of musical creatives. How do you feel about participating in such impactful initiatives through your Recording Academy membership? What initiatives are you excited to participate in?  

I'm absolutely thrilled to have the chance to participate in initiatives that make the industry better for musicians and creatives. I am particularly interested in underrepresented voices that need the space and support to thrive and make sure that the Recording Academy remains inclusive and reflective of the uniqueness and diversity we have in the arts.  

Lastly, mentorship is deeply important to me and has been a major part of my career. I understand the impact of passing on knowledge and supporting the next generation of artists, and want to foster a community that will emphasize mentoring new and future artists. I am excited to participate and make a difference through my membership. 

What change(s) do you strive to make in the music industry as a new member?  

As a new member of the Recording Academy, I strive to contribute to several key changes in the music industry that reflect my passion for inclusivity, artist advocacy and innovation. These changes include: promoting greater diversity and representation across all genres of music; enhancing the protection and rights of musical creatives; fostering a community of education and mentorship among creators. 

How do you expect that your membership will make a difference in your music career?  

I believe that my membership at the Recording Academy will impact my music career by providing various opportunities for networking, learning and exposure. Being a member of an influential organization of like-minded professionals who are passionate about music and committed to its growth and evolution is a dream! 

As a member of the Recording Academy, I will have the opportunity to advocate for important issues such as artists' rights, diversity, and inclusion. It will also help me be a more proactive and engaged member of our industry.  

Ultimately, I believe that my membership in the Recording Academy will empower me to grow both as an artist and as a professional, providing me with the tools, connections and platform needed to make the best decisions for my future endeavors and to be impactful in the music industry. 

What excites you about the chance to contribute to the Recording Academy's evolution?  

What deeply excites me is the opportunity to bring new perspectives and creative ideas that can help the Academy remain relevant in an ever-changing landscape. The music industry is so different from where we were even five years ago. It is evolving rapidly with new technologies and culture shifts, and as an organization, we have to be adaptable and agile. 

Contributing to the Academy's evolution would allow me to help ensure that these changes are reflected in the way we recognize, award and promote music, making the industry more equitable and forward-thinking. Hopefully, one day we can even have a category that honors dance. 

Beyond that, I'm passionate about music's power to bring people together and inspire change. By working with the Recording Academy, I would be able to contribute to initiatives that not only recognize outstanding musicians, but also support the growth and development of the entire music community.  

What do you hope to gain from your experience as a Recording Academy member?  

I hope to foster collaborations, exchange ideas, and gain inspiration from others' experiences and perspectives with various artists and creators from different genres. These relationships can lead to creative partnerships, new projects, and a broader understanding of the diverse facets of the music industry. 

What does being an active member of the Recording Academy mean to you?  

It means engaging with a community of like-minded individuals who all love this industry and the people in it. It also means the chance to elevate the voices of all kinds of creators and to have an impact on the arts for future generations. I know what an impact music and dance have had on my life. For me, it has been a lifeline and catalyst to live my wildest dreams. As a creative, it is important to ensure that the next generation and everyone that follows has the opportunity to find and follow their dreams in the arts. 

Go Behind The Scenes: An Exclusive Look Inside The Recording Academy's New Member Welcome Week 2024: CEO Harvey Mason jr. Chats With Lainey Wilson, DEI, Advocacy & Much More  

Flavour

Can you share what inspired you to become a Recording Academy member?

My inspiration to become a Recording Academy member comes from my desire to make valuable contributions to an organization that supports artistic excellence and advocates for the rights and recognition of music professionals. I have always been passionate about music and its transformative power, and the Academy's dedication to promoting a supportive community for artists and industry professionals aligns with my values and aspirations. 

Recording Academy members can uplift the music community, celebrate musical craft, and advocate for the rights of musical creatives. How do you feel about participating in such impactful initiatives through your Recording Academy membership? What initiatives are you excited to participate in?  

I feel deeply honored and excited to take part in such positive initiatives. I'm particularly eager to contribute to efforts that support emerging artists, promote diversity and inclusion, and ensure fairness for all music creators.  

What change(s) do you strive to make in the music industry as a new member? 

As a new member of the Recording Academy, I plan to champion diverse voices, promote transparency in the award process, and advocate for fairness. I'm also keen on encouraging innovation in music and fostering collaboration across genres and cultures. 

How do you expect that your membership will make a difference in your music career?  

I expect that my membership will boost my music career by significantly expanding my network, opening up new collaboration opportunities, and increasing my visibility and influence within the industry. 

What excites you about the chance to contribute to the Recording Academy's evolution?

An evolution would include fresh perspectives and advocacy. Being part of this evolution means I get a chance to bring fresh perspectives, advocate for diversity and inclusion, and help to shape the future of the industry. Being part of all that excites me.  

What do you hope to gain from your experience as a Recording Academy member?  

I hope to gain deeper industry insights, valuable connections, and the chance to influence positive changes in the world of music. I also look forward to expanding my reach and impact as an artist. 

What does being an active member of the Recording Academy mean to you?  

Being an active member of the Recording Academy is both a responsibility and privilege to make a meaningful impact in the industry. It means that I get to be part of a collective effort to recognize and celebrate the best in music, making sure that excellence and artistry are acknowledged and rewarded. I see it as an opportunity to support other artists and also contribute to the legacy of music history by helping to highlight innovative work.

Learn More: The Recording Academy To Host 2024 Songwriters & Composers Wing Town Hall: How To Watch, Who's Speaking, What Are The Topics & More

Raja Kumari 

What inspired you to join the Recording Academy?  

The Recording Academy has always represented excellence in music to me. I've been inspired by GRAMMY winners my entire life, and to now be a Voting Member of that society is a milestone in my relationship with music. I have so much respect for the Recording Academy, and now as a Voting Member, I get to vote for the music that inspires me, the music that will lead us into a beautiful future. I get to honor the incredible music being created by voting for it. My opinion means something in this Academy as a Voting Member, and that gives me so much pride.  

Recording Academy members can uplift the music community, celebrate musical craft, and advocate for the rights of musical creatives. How do you feel about participating in such impactful initiatives through your Recording Academy membership? What initiatives are you excited to participate in?  

The music industry has evolved so much in the last few years. As a songwriter, a recording artist, and now as the head of an independent label, I have seen and experienced the gauntlet of challenges experienced by a musician. There is a need for community and education regarding our rights as songwriters and performers. As the industry shifts more and more to streaming, how as a community can we strive to protect artistic creation over commerce? As an artist that has been part of the independent music scene in India for the past 10 years, I also look forward to giving insight to my peers regarding this emerging market. 

What change(s) do you strive to make in the music industry as a new member?  

I think representation is extremely important. Growing up in America in an Indian household, I was exposed to so many different instruments and sounds. It was always my mission as a songwriter and artist to bring these Eastern influences to the West. As a Recording Academy member, I want to give a platform to more South Asian artists and musicians.  

How do you expect that your membership will make a difference in your music career?  

It's hard to judge your success in music. It's always a series of stats and numbers to compare. We didn't have a delineated path from college to the workplace to the studio — we had to find our own way, sometimes without any type of external validation. Coming from an immigrant family, it was hard to express the importance of my first placement or first 1 million views. But becoming a member of the Recording Academy is something tangible, something special, and something my parents can actually comprehend. It's a milestone I have dreamed of since the first time I sang on a mic. But like all things, this is just the beginning. I am so honored to be a part of this community and excited to use my voice to celebrate the art that truly means something.   

What excites you about the chance to contribute to the Recording Academy's evolution? 

It's an exciting time. More artists than ever from the South Asian community are being heard. To be a member of the Recording Academy means I get to help foster that dream and champion my community.

Learn More: How The Recording Academy's Global Expansion Will Support Music Creators And Develop Creative Economies On A Worldwide Scale

Kaash Paige 

What inspired you to join the Recording Academy? 

I was inspired to join the Recording Academy to connect with fellow artists, contribute to the music community, and help shape the future of the music industry. 

Recording Academy members can uplift the music community, celebrate musical craft, and advocate for the rights of musical creatives. How do you feel about participating in such impactful initiatives through your Recording Academy membership? What initiatives are you excited to participate in?  

I feel honored to be a part of such an impactful community that uplifts and supports creatives. It's history!  I'm excited to participate and advocate for artists' rights, particularly in initiatives that empower young, emerging artists. 

What change(s) do you strive to make in the music industry as a new member? 

As a new member, I just strive to amplify the voices of underrepresented artists, aka "the underdogs." I push for more inclusivity in the industry and to create opportunities for young creatives to thrive! 

How do you expect that your membership will make a difference in your music career? 

I expect my Recording Academy membership to open doors for networking with industry leaders, provide new opportunities for collaboration, and enhance my understanding of the business side of music.  

What excites you about the chance to contribute to the Recording Academy's evolution? 

I'm just excited about getting the chance to bring fresh perspectives, ears and innovative ideas to the Recording Academy to ensure it remains relevant and inclusive for the next generation of artists. 

What do you hope to gain from your experience as a Recording Academy member? 

I hope to gain deeper industry insight! More valuable connections with other artists and professionals around me, and use my platform to influence positive change in the music community through my experience as a Recording Academy member. 

What does being an active member of the Recording Academy mean to you? 

Being an active member of the Recording Academy not only means having a voice in the industry, but it means contributing to important decisions that impact the music community! Playing a role in recognizing and celebrating diverse talent. I see it as a way to give back and help shape the future of music. 

Editor’s Note: Updated Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, to reflect voting and awards information for the 2024 GRAMMYs.

Editor’s Note: This article was updated and republished on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, to reflect information about Final Round Voting for the 2025 GRAMMYs.

The annual GRAMMY Awards voting process is more transparent than it's ever been. Every year, the Recording Academy continues to fine-tune this process to its purest form: a peer-to-peer vote, from one member of the global music community to another.

The GRAMMY is the music industry's highest honor. As the only peer-recognized award in music, the GRAMMY represents the recognition and respect that can only come from within the family of music people. Your vote is important. Beyond recognizing and celebrating your fellow peers, your GRAMMY vote has a practical and real-life impact on the music world and its creators.

We've already covered the nuts and bolts of the GRAMMYs voting process with a detailed guide explaining everything you need to know about Final Round GRAMMY Voting for the upcoming 2025 GRAMMYs, officially known as the 67th GRAMMY Awards. Today, we're taking a deep dive into some of the many reasons why your GRAMMY vote matters this year and every year.

The Power Is In Your Hands

No matter the context in which you vote — from state fairs all the way to presidential elections — does it ever feel like your ballot is just one drop in a vast ocean? To a degree, this is understandable: One vote can seem minor when placed among hundreds or thousands of other votes.

Through the lens of the annual GRAMMYs voting process, don't forget this reality: Every GRAMMY vote truly counts and every Recording Academy Voting Member matters. Your vote directly determines the outcome of the GRAMMY Awards, including all GRAMMY winners and GRAMMY nominees. This has been proven throughout the decades, and it's about to be underlined again.

Without your input, and that of the Recording Academy's wider Voting Membership, the GRAMMYs cannot happen — period. Becoming a Recording Academy Voting Member — stepping up to that responsibility — is no small assignment. By doing so, you become a steward of this important tradition and honor, and you continue the legacy of music's only peer-voted award.

But other than just keeping an awards show running, why is GRAMMY voting such an awesome responsibility?

Learn More: The Impact Of A GRAMMY Win: Life After The Award

Your Vote Can Influence The Future Of Music

Whether you've been a Recording Academy Voting Member for months or for decades, you undoubtedly know that the impact of a GRAMMY Award continues far beyond GRAMMY night. Your vote can make a career-defining difference in the lives of artists and creators and inspire future generations to evolve the music industry at large.

Every year, the annual list of GRAMMY nominees and GRAMMY winners creates ever-lasting, industry-shifting ripple effects across music, and it often dictates what happens next through your speakers and on stages. In fact, the so-called "GRAMMY Effect," a well-established music industry phenomenon in which many GRAMMY nominees and GRAMMY winners experience significant music sales boosts following GRAMMY night, has positively impacted the careers of past winners like Jon Batiste, Olivia Rodrigo and Chris Stapleton, among many others.

When it comes to music, you can make a difference across the music industry and in the lives of today's artists and creators with your GRAMMY vote. Just take a look at the artists leading music today; they partly got there because of people just like you and your GRAMMY vote. 

Your Vote Can Make GRAMMY History

Every vote has the potential to make GRAMMY history, and that's no different when it comes to the 2025 GRAMMYs. Your vote in every GRAMMY Category will contribute to these special moments in GRAMMY history.

Voting Allows All Voting Members To Be Heard

You're a member of the Recording Academy because of your genuine contributions to the music world and the distinct perspective you bring to this society of music creators. Your dedication to your craft is distinct, your voice is unique, and your GRAMMY vote is critical.

The fact of the matter is, we need you as a Voting Member to execute and evolve the annual GRAMMY Awards voting process. Our members are what make the Recording Academy and the GRAMMY Awards special and impactful. Your GRAMMY vote represents your voice within the Academy, and its impact will influence the music industry at large for years to come.

Plus, for new members who just joined the Recording Academy, voting allows you to make your voices heard right away!

Voting Advances Diversity Across Music

The Recording Academy's 2024 New Member Class, initiated this year, reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion across the ethnicities, genres and crafts that power the music industry, a pillar held true all year long.

Recording Academy Voting Members are responsible for representing the music community and celebrating the creative accomplishments of their peers, especially within their direct genres and communities. To help ensure the quality of voting every GRAMMY season, members are directed to vote only in their areas of expertise and those in which they are a peer. Your vote represents and impacts your direct community of artists and creators. Thus, by becoming a member and by actively voting, you are ensuring the GRAMMY Awards truly reflect the diversity of our global music industry. 

Voting Is Not Just An Opportunity — It's A Responsibility

Being a Recording Academy Voting Member comes with many amazing perks: You can advocate to protect the rights of music makers and advance creators' interests on important policy matters via our Advocacy department; you can connect with fellow members through member-only initiatives and programs; you can run for a Recording Academy Board and/or participate on advisory committees; you can vote in Chapter elections; and so much more.

Some of the most impactful Recording Academy membership perks are directly tied to the GRAMMYs. As a Recording Academy Voting Member, you can participate in the GRAMMY Awards process on multiple levels, including: submitting your work and art for GRAMMY consideration; proposing rule changes to the awards process; and voting for the nominees and winners at the annual GRAMMY Awards.

Recording Academy Voting Members share an obligation to participate in the annual GRAMMY Awards voting process to help fulfill a vital part of the Academy's mission: to celebrate music and its makers. Ultimately, GRAMMY voting allows you to push our music industry forward and contribute to the ongoing evolution and legacy of the GRAMMY Awards.

Just like Recording Academy membership itself, GRAMMY voting is not just a privilege; it's a major responsibility each Voting Member holds. So, use your GRAMMY vote to make the impact you wish to see across the music industry.

Editor’s Note: This article was updated and republished on Monday, Dec. 2, to reflect information about Final Round Voting for the 2025 GRAMMYs.

Now that the 2025 GRAMMY nominations have been announced, the final phase of the GRAMMY voting season is in full swing. Ahead of the 2025 GRAMMYs, which take place Sunday, Feb. 2, live at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, GRAMMY voters will vote on the artists, creators and releases who will take home the coveted GRAMMY Award on Music's Biggest Night.

This month, GRAMMY voters enter the final step in the GRAMMY Awards voting process: Final Round Voting. Taking place from Thursday, December 12, 2024, through Friday, January 3, 2025, Final Round Voting will ultimately determine the GRAMMY winners across all 94 Categories to be awarded at the 2025 GRAMMYs.

The Recording Academy, the organization behind the annual GRAMMY Awards, encourages our Voting Members to educate themselves on the GRAMMY voting process each year as they prepare to cast their ballots when GRAMMY voting opens. To help guide Voting Members through the GRAMMY voting process, we've put together a thorough and informative guide outlining all the key dates, deadlines and voting guidelines to know this year.

Here's everything you need to know about Final Round Voting for the 2025 GRAMMYs, officially known as the 67th GRAMMY Awards.

Learn More: Who Are The Top GRAMMY Awards Winners Of All Time? Who Has The Most GRAMMYs?

ROAD TO THE 2025 GRAMMYs

As a member of the Recording Academy, you may be asked questions about the GRAMMY voting process. Equip yourself with the knowledge to explain the complete GRAMMY Awards process by visiting our interactive online resource, which breaks down the full GRAMMY Awards journey from beginning to end.

Below is an overview of the complete GRAMMY Awards process as related to the 2025 GRAMMYs.

KEY DATES: 2025 GRAMMYs

Key dates for the 2025 GRAMMY Awards season are as follows:

Sept. 16, 2023 – Aug. 30, 2024
Product Eligibility Period
The period by which recordings are submitted for GRAMMY consideration. All releases must be available for sale, via general distribution, to the public by this date and through at least the date of the current year's voting deadline (final ballot) to be eligible for the 2025 GRAMMY Awards.

July 8, 2024 – Aug. 23, 2024
Media Company Registration Period
Media companies must apply for registration with the Recording Academy to submit recordings.

July 17, 2024 – Aug. 30, 2024
Online Entry Period
All eligible recordings must be entered prior to the close of the Online Entry Period, regardless of the public release date.

Oct. 4, 2024 – Oct. 15, 2024
First Round Voting
First Round Voting determines all the GRAMMY nominees for each GRAMMY Awards year.

Nov. 8, 2024
Nominees Announced for the 2025 GRAMMY Awards
Announcing the official nominees list for the 2025 GRAMMYs.

Dec. 12, 2024 – Jan. 3, 2025
Final Round Voting
Determines the GRAMMY winners across all categories revealed on GRAMMY night.

Feb. 2, 2025
2025 GRAMMY Awards
Music's Biggest Night, recognizing excellence in the recording arts and sciences.

Learn More: How Much Is A GRAMMY Worth? 7 Facts To Know About The GRAMMY Award Trophy

HOW DOES GRAMMY VOTING WORK?

THE GRAMMYS ONLINE ENTRY PROCESS

The annual GRAMMY Awards journey begins with the Online Entry Process (OEP). During OEP, which this year took place from July 17 through Aug. 30, Media Companies and Recording Academy members submitted recordings, music videos/films and releases for consideration to be included on the 2025 GRAMMY Awards ballot. Submissions that were not formally submitted during OEP were not considered for the 2025 GRAMMYs.

Eligible releases must have been released during the Product Eligibility Period, which this year comprised the period between Sept. 16, 2023, through Aug. 30, 2024; all releases must be available for sale, via general distribution, to the public by this date and through at least the date of the current year's voting deadline (final ballot) to be eligible for the 2025 GRAMMY Awards.

SUBMISSIONS SCREENING

After the Online Entry Process, the Recording Academy's Awards Department and genre screening committees manually reviewed all entries to ensure they were categorized in the appropriate GRAMMY Categories. The purpose of genre screening committees is not to make artistic or technical judgements about the submissions, but rather to ensure each entry is eligible and placed in its proper Category.

FIRST ROUND VOTING & FINAL ROUND VOTING

Following OEP, the GRAMMY voting process begins with First Round Voting, which this year took place in October and determined the nominees at the 2025 GRAMMYs.

The annual GRAMMY voting process is divided into two phases: First Round Voting, which determines all the GRAMMY nominees for each GRAMMY Category each year, and Final Round Voting, which ultimately determines the GRAMMY winners across all Categories revealed on GRAMMY night. It is crucial for all Recording Academy Voting Members to actively participate in both First Round Voting and Final Round Voting. This will ensure that all eligible artists, musicians and creators are fairly evaluated based on their artistic and technical merits and will help the wider music community determine the leading music of the year, as voted on by their peers.

The ballots GRAMMY voters submit during Final Round Voting this month will determine the GRAMMY winners at the 2025 GRAMMYs, which will be announced live on the GRAMMY stage on Sunday, Feb. 2. Thus, it's essential for all GRAMMY voters to be involved.

WHO VOTES FOR THE GRAMMYS?

As the only peer-voted award in music, the GRAMMY Award is the highest honor in all of music. That's because GRAMMY nominees and GRAMMY winners are determined by Voting Members, who are composed of vetted and venerable performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, instrumentalists, and other creators currently working in the recording industry. Every GRAMMY vote affirms this prestige and strengthens the highest excellence in music and the recording arts and sciences.

Final Round Voting ballots are provided to Voting Members in good dues standing. To ensure the quality of GRAMMY voting, members are directed to vote only in their areas of expertise and those in which they are a peer: up to 10 GRAMMY Categories across three Fields, plus the six General Field Categories (Record Of The Year, Album Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Best New Artist, Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical, and Songwriter Of The Year, Non-Classical). This process ensures the quality of the voting during the full GRAMMY Awards process.

Learn more about Recording Academy Membership and how to become a member.

Voting Members represent and celebrate the accomplishments of their peers in their genre. By voting only in Categories where they are a peer, GRAMMY voters help ensure the GRAMMY Awards reflect the diversity and excellence of our music community.

GRAMMY voters were selected amongst thousands of applicants for their expertise, skill, and diverse background. Your vote represents your voice within the Academy, and its impact will influence music history.

Read More: Your Vote, Your Voice: 6 Reasons Why Your GRAMMY Vote Matters

VOTE TABULATION

To maintain integrity in the voting process, ballots are collected and tabulated by the independent accounting firm Deloitte.

HOW ARE GRAMMY NOMINATIONS DETERMINED?

After GRAMMY voters submit their votes, the top five finalists in each GRAMMY Category are nominated for a GRAMMY Award, except for the General Field Categories of Record Of The Year, Album Of The Year, Song Of The Year, and Best New Artist, where the top eight finalists are the nominees.

HOW TO VOTE IN THE 2025 GRAMMYS

Recording Academy Voting Members can access their Final Round Voting ballot for the 2025 GRAMMYs via their member dashboard starting at 9 a.m. PT / 12 p.m. ET on Thursday, December 12, 2024. Final Round Voting closes at 6 p.m. PT / 9 p.m. ET on Friday, January 3, 2025.

Before voting opens, please make sure you have the correct email and password to login. If your credentials are invalid, reset your password. For further assistance, see the following contact info below:

VOTER TECHNICAL SUPPORT

PHONE: 866-992-9902 x403
EMAIL: grammys@yangaroo.com
HOURS: M-F, 5 a.m. — 5 p.m. PT / 8 a.m. — 8 p.m. ET (Note holiday schedule below.)

• Dec. 24 & Dec. 31: 6 a.m. PT – 1 p.m. PT / 9 a.m. ET – 4 p.m. ET

• Dec. 25, Dec. 26 & Jan. 1 – CLOSED

• Final Round Voting: Thursday, December 12, 2024 – Friday, January 3, 2025  

AWARDS, FYC (FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION) & NON-TECHNICAL SUPPORT:

PHONE: 833-789-8683
EMAIL: votersupport@grammy.com

HOURS: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. PT / noon – 8 p.m. ET (Note holiday schedule below.)

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Learn More: The Impact Of A GRAMMY Win: Life After The Award

NEW CHANGES TO GRAMMY AWARDS CATEGORIES

In June, the Recording Academy shared a series of updates to the annual GRAMMY Awards process for the 2025 GRAMMYs, including adjustments to eligibility criteria, Category renaming, and submission guidelines updates for some Categories. All updates go into effect immediately at the 2025 GRAMMYs. Learn more about the GRAMMY Awards Categories changes as related to your areas of expertise ahead of casting your votes for the 2025 GRAMMYs.

Read More: GRAMMY Awards Updates For The 2025 GRAMMYs: Here's Everything You Need To Know About GRAMMY Awards Categories Changes & Eligibility Guidelines

GRAMMY BALLOT ESSENTIALS

The search and flexibility enhancements recently added to GRAMMY voting ballots will return for this GRAMMY season. The Category selection tool, which minimizes scrolling time and creates an easy-to-use ballot for each voter, will return for Final Round Voting this year.

TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL GRAMMY VOTING

Every GRAMMY voting season is unique. To help GRAMMY voters prepare for Final Round Voting, we've compiled a helpful guide of GRAMMY voting tips.

LISTENING TO NOMINATED RECORDINGS

During Final Round Voting, Recording Academy Voting Members can stream submitted recordings on select streaming services. The Recording Academy encourages all Voting Members to listen to all submitted recordings in the Categories in which they are voting to ensure intentional listening and thoughtful voting. This process will encourage respect and consideration for all creators and their submitted works on behalf of GRAMMY voters.

Learn More: Recording Academy Renames Best Song For Social Change Award In Honor Of Harry Belafonte

GRAMMY VOTING & SOLICITATION GUIDELINES

Each year, Recording Academy Voting Members drive the GRAMMY Awards process. The Recording Academy respects its Voting membership body and trusts that each Voting Member will uphold the GRAMMY standard of excellence by voting with integrity and discipline.

All Voting Members should only cast their votes based on the artistic and technical merits of the submitted recordings and products. This will ensure that the annual GRAMMY Awards process is fair and ethical for all creators and submitted works. Read the Recording Academy's Voting and Solicitation Guidelines and Voter Code of Conduct for additional information before submitting your GRAMMY votes.

VOTE WITH THE NEW "MY ACADEMY HUB" MOBILE APP

The Recording Academy is proud to provide Final Round Voting ballot access within the new "My Academy Hub" mobile app.* Visit your member dashboard anytime, anywhere right at your fingertips. Download the mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store today and be sure to set up biometric login so you'll never have to remember your password again^.

Having issues? For questions and technical support regarding the app, please contact us at app@recordingacademy.com.

*The GRAMMY Voting process remains unchanged, and members will now be able to access their Final Round Voting ballots directly in their member dashboards via the "My Academy Hub" mobile app.

^Members in almost all locations, domestic and international, can download and use the mobile app. Please note the app is not currently available to members in China.

Learn More: The Recording Academy Adds More Than 3,000 Women GRAMMY Voters Since 2019, Surpassing Its 2025 Membership Goal

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

For more information about the 2025 GRAMMY Awards season, learn more about the annual GRAMMY Awards process; read our FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section; view the official GRAMMY Awards Rules and Guidelines; and visit the GRAMMY Award Update Center for a list of real-time changes to the GRAMMY Awards process.

Cast your GRAMMY votes for the 2025 GRAMMYs once Final Round Voting opens Thursday, December 12, 2024, and make sure to watch Music's Biggest NightSunday, Feb. 2, to see who wins the GRAMMY gold.

In a continuing commitment to nurture future Black music industry leaders, Amazon Music and the Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective (BMC) have announced the return of the Your Future Is Now scholarship program for its fourth consecutive year. 

The program, which launched in 2021, provides students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with both financial support and direct, hands-on experience in the music industry.

This year, five HBCU students will be awarded a $10,000 scholarship each and have the chance to engage in a career-defining rotation with department leads at Amazon Music and the Recording Academy. Alongside the individual scholarships, the program will grant two HBCUs $10,000 each for music program equipment, further investing in institutional resources for budding artists and music professionals.

To celebrate the scholarship's renewal, "Amazon Music Live" featured an exclusive episode headlined by GRAMMY-nominated hip-hop heavyweight, Big Sean, sponsored by the all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks. This special live streamed performance included Big Sean performing alongside North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University's celebrated Blue and Gold Marching Machine and The Fellowship Gospel Choir, bringing a powerful, HBCU-rooted energy to the show.

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Following the concert, North Carolina A&T was announced as the first HBCU recipient of the $10,000 music equipment grant, with Amazon Music executives Phylicia Fant and Jameka Pankey, alongside Recording Academy representatives, presenting the donation to the university’s drumline coordinator, Harvey Thompson.

"Every Homecoming season, HBCU students and alumni come together not only to celebrate our community but also to strengthen the bonds that connect us," said Phylicia Fant, Head of Music Industry and Culture Collaborations at Amazon Music. "It’s that kind of meaningful impact on students’ lives that we set out to foster with this program."

Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in the scholarship’s impact. "The program’s effect on our student cohorts has been nothing short of remarkable, and I couldn’t be prouder," he said. "It’s crucial that we continue investing in the next generation of Black music creators and professionals, equipping them to lead and shape the future of the music industry."

The Your Future Is Now scholarship application is now open. Eligible students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents currently enrolled at an HBCU and pursuing a degree in music, music business, business administration, marketing, communications, or a related field. Requirements include a transcript, personal statement, a creative video showcasing their vision, and one recommendation. The application deadline is December 13, and recipients will be announced in early January.

To apply for the scholarship, visit here.

This scholarship announcement is part of Amazon Music’s wider Homecoming celebrations. Amazon Music recently hosted carnival-style pop-up events at HBCUs across the country, including North Carolina A&T, Florida A&M, Howard University, and Jackson State University, creating memorable experiences for students and alumni while connecting them with the music and traditions that define HBCU culture. Students and alumni were able to experience music from past AML performers, get pictures in intricate photo moments, and have a chance to win exclusive one-of-a-kind merch. Amazon Music customers everywhere can celebrate with "Homecoming SZN," a new playlist of music created specifically to soundtrack HBCU Homecoming Weekends.

The Recording Academy's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion team, in collaboration with the GRAMMY Museum, has announced the recipients of the third annual Quinn Coleman Memorial Scholarship.

This year, the scholarship honors five college students: Nadia Adams (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee), Harrison Candelario (University of Rochester), Christo Hernandez (University of Southern California), Elyse Smith (Harvard University), and Hope Williams (Oakwood University).

Established in 2021, the Quinn Coleman Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Quinn Coleman, a cherished music executive and DJ who passed away in 2020 at the age of 31. Created by his family in partnership with the GRAMMY Museum, this scholarship aims to break down barriers in the music industry by offering professional development opportunities that prepare students for full-time careers, through financial aid, mentorship, and practical professional experiences.

Each selected recipient will be awarded two $1,000 scholarships for tuition, a $500 stipend for interview preparation, two $250 stipends for books and equipment, and financial and emotional wellness seminars. Furthermore, students will be awarded a spring internship at the Recording Academy or Latin Recording Academy.

For updates on the Recording Academy's DEI initiatives, click here. For more information about the GRAMMY Museum, visit grammymuseum.org.