The Recording Academy has extended membership invitations to more than 3,600 music professionals, with K-pop’s emerging multinational group KATSEYE among the notable invitees. This year’s 2025 class represents a concerted effort towards greater inclusivity within the music industry’s most influential body, boasting a demographic breakdown of 49% women, 56% people of color, and 60% under the age of 40.
For artists like KATSEYE, an invitation to the Recording Academy opens pathways to participate directly in the Grammy Awards voting process and contribute to broader industry initiatives.
Powering Music’s Future
Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, emphasized the opportunities awaiting new members. “For today’s music creators, Grammy membership opens up an incredible set of opportunities,” he stated. “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 organisation shaping the future of music.”
New members are invited to engage in various Academy initiatives, including driving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) progress through the DREAM Initiative, advocating for creators at federal and state levels, and participating in programming with specialised wings like the Producers and Engineers Wing and Songwriters and Composers Wing. They also contribute to their peers across the Academy’s 12 Chapter cities.
KATSEYE’s Ascent to Grammy Consideration
KATSEYE, formed through the HYBE and Universal Music Group audition show ‘The Debut: Dream Academy,’ officially debuted in June 2023. The group consists of six members: Lara, Manon, Sophia, Daniela, Megan, and Yoon Chae. Their formation represents HYBE’s strategic efforts to establish a globally relevant girl group rooted in the United States.
Upon receiving their invitation, KATSEYE expressed their collective enthusiasm: “We’re so honored to be part of the Recording Academy/Grammys 2025 New Member Class! It’s exciting to stand alongside such inspiring artists and be part of a community that truly champions music, artistry, and diversity.”
Read more: KATSEYE Member Megan Comes Out as Bisexual, Furthering K-Pop LGBTQ+ Visibility
Other prominent figures celebrating their invitations to become new Recording Academy members this year include Addison Rae, Grupo Firme, Joey Bada$$, Mariah The Scientist, and Nikki Glaser. Invited professionals must formally accept their invitations by July 31 to become full Recording Academy members and participate in the upcoming Grammy Awards’ Online Entry Process. The expansion of the Academy’s membership reflects a growing recognition of the diverse talents and perspectives shaping the contemporary music landscape.
