On Nov. 4, the Washington, D.C. Chapter of GRAMMY U participated in a GRAMMY SoundChecks presented by Verizon with Jill Scott. Fifteen lucky GRAMMY U students were given the opportunity to attend the event held at Ram's Head Live in Baltimore, Md. Scott and her band, including former Philadelphia Chapter Governor Matt Cappy and current Governor Randy Bowland, answered intimate questions from the eager students.
After an energetic 30-minute sound check, Scott and her band openly discussed their view on the current state of R&B music and shared how they have chosen an alternate direction for their careers. Defining her meaning of perseverance, Scott shared her real-life experiences of working an array of jobs prior to her success as an artist. Scott attributed being the best at her craft, believing in herself, being patient and maintaining long-term relationships as factors to her current recording success. Bowland stressed the importance of the students completing their studies to earn degrees and urged students to make the most of their college career by taking full advantage of all opportunities, such as the GRAMMY U program.
Student questions ranged from "What advice do you have for future publicists?" to "Do you ever get on stage and not feel mentally or vocally prepared?" Scott and her band welcomed these questions and the opportunity to offer advice based on their own personal experiences. They all stressed the importance of professionalism in front of and behind the stage and the need to remain honest in your career. Students were impressed with Scott's openness and direct advice. An attending GRAMMY U member commented, "All of her advice was inspirational and it gave me a newfound motivation as I go on my journey through musicianship."