Artist from HYBE have been officially invited to join the Recording Academy. Credit to allkpop.
Los Angeles, California (July 10, 2025)- The Recording Academy has just taken another major step toward reshaping the future of music. On July 10, the organization behind the GRAMMY Awards extended membership invitations to nearly 3,600 distinguished music professionals as part of its 2025 New Member Class — a move that further amplifies its mission to reflect the rich diversity, creativity, and evolving identity of the music industry.
This year’s class is historic in its inclusivity: 49% of invitees are women, 56% identify as People of Color, and 60% are under the age of 40. These numbers are not just symbolic — they represent a deliberate effort to give voice and voting power to artists and professionals who represent the future of music.
“GRAMMY membership opens up an incredible set of opportunities,” said Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. “Members not only get to recognize their peers through nominations and awards, but also gain hands-on experiences, access to development resources, and the power to help shape the direction of the industry.”
Among the class of 2025 are artists across the spectrum of sound and genre: pop star and actress Addison Rae, powerhouse regional Mexican group Grupo Firme, rapper and actor Joey Bada$$, rising girl group KATSEYE, introspective R&B talent Mariah The Scientist, and comedian-singer Nikki Glaser. Each new member expressed pride in joining a community known for uplifting artistry and advocating for music creators.
Addison Rae called it “a huge honor,” adding that she hopes to inspire others “to create fearlessly.” Joey Bada$$ described the moment as “more than just recognition,” saying it was about “standing alongside the artists and creators I respect most.” Grupo Firme celebrated representing Mexican music in a global space, while KATSEYE embraced the opportunity to be part of “a community that champions artistry and diversity.”
Mariah The Scientist called the invitation a “full-circle moment” for an artist who’s always created from a vulnerable place, and Nikki Glaser, in her typical humor, said she “screamed” when she found out — joking that this was “the greatest thing the GRAMMYs have given me since the half of Benson Boone’s tuxedo I kept after last year’s show.”
These new members won’t just cast votes on “Music’s Biggest Night®.” They’ll also have opportunities to engage with the Academy’s wide-reaching programs and advocacy initiatives. From contributing to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion efforts through the DREAM Initiative, to participating in songwriting, production, and engineering programs via the Academy’s specialized wings, members can have real influence on the evolution of the music industry.
New members must accept their invitations by July 31 to participate in this year’s Online Entry Process (OEP), where GRAMMY submissions — including recordings and music videos — are entered for consideration in the 68th GRAMMY Awards®. Voting members will ultimately determine which artists are honored on stage, solidifying their role in shaping music history.
With this class, the Recording Academy continues to show that excellence in music knows no age, gender, or background. The 2025 New Member Class is not just a celebration of accomplishment — it’s a declaration of where the industry is headed next.
To learn more about the Recording Academy, its initiatives, and how membership powers progress in the music world, visit GRAMMY.com or follow @RecordingAcad across social platforms.
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