While the Recording Academy is best known for hosting the GRAMMY Awards, the organization goes beyond honoring leading lights in the music industry. Recording Academy membership  — both voting and professional — comes with responsibility. This year, the Academy is inviting nearly 3,600 new members to contribute, build community, and help shape the future of music and culture.

"For today’s music creators, GRAMMY membership opens up an incredible set of opportunities," said Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. "Not only do voting members get the chance to honor their peers with GRAMMY nominations and awards, Academy members get access to hands-on experience, skill development to advance their careers, exposure to peers and mentors in the music industry and be part of an organization shaping the future of music." 

The 2025 New Member Class reflects a deliberate shift toward greater inclusivity and representation: 49 percent of invitees identify as women, 56 percent as people of color, and 60 percent are under the age of 40. These numbers represent more than demographics; they signal who gets a voice in the room — and how the Academy continues to expand who that room includes.

GRAMMY-nominated comedian, actor and host Nikki Glaser shared her excitement in signature fashion: "This is the best thing the GRAMMYs have given me since I kept half of Benson Boone’s tux after last year’s show. And as a comedian, it’ll be nice to finally do one thing in earnest." Glaser earned her first nomination at the 2025 GRAMMYs for Best Comedy Album.

Winner of Best Banda Album at the 2021 Latin GRAMMYs, Grupo Firme and one of the most recognizable voices in música mexicana, embraced the moment with pride. Translating from Spanish, the group said: "We’re profoundly honored to be part of the new generation of Recording Academy members. Representing música mexicana in a global space is a dream come true, and we’re ready to raise our voices for our culture and our roots. ¡Vamos con todo!"

Joey Bada$$, who co-wrote Post Malone’s GRAMMY-nominated single "Rockstar," called the invitation not just a "powerful acknowledgment," but a chance to lead. "It gives me a seat at the table," he said, "not just for myself, but for the community that raised me."

Houston rapper Monaleo spoke from a place of passion and humility. "I am truly a fan and student of music," she said. "I believe music is sacred and should be treated as such. I am passionate about art, so being invited amongst a panel of like-minded individuals would fill my heart." In 2023, she performed Fetty Wap’s GRAMMY-nominated hit "Trap Queen" for GRAMMY.com’s Hip-Hop Redefined video series — a performance that introduced her voice to the Academy’s audience well before this invitation.

Mariah The Scientist described the moment as affirming. "I’ve always made music from a real place — honest, vulnerable, mine," she said. "Joining a space that uplifts that kind of artistry feels full circle."\
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KATSEYE, the global girl group formed through "The Debut: Dream Academy," embraced the moment with excitement. "We’re so honored to be part of the Recording Academy/GRAMMYs 2025 New Member Class," they said. "It’s exciting to stand alongside such inspiring artists and be part of a community that truly champions music, artistry, and diversity."

Artist Addison Rae echoed KATSEYE's sentiment, calling her invitation "a huge honor." She thanked the Academy for the opportunity, and continued: "I am so lucky to be surrounded by talent and poise that inspires me to create fearlessly and help encourage others to do so as well." 

These artists — and thousands more — join a Recording Academy that continues to expand its purpose. Members vote, yes, but they also drive advocacy, mentor emerging talent, contribute to creative wellness initiatives, and participate in conversations that extend beyond any awards cycle.

Invitations must be formally accepted for invitees to become Recording Academy members. To participate in the Online Entry Process (OEP) for the upcoming GRAMMY Awards, invitees must accept by July 31. Through OEP, members can submit recordings, music videos and other eligible content for consideration at the 2026 GRAMMYs.

The 2025 New Member Class doesn’t just widen the Academy’s reach. It changes the conversation.