Amazon Music and Black Music Collective Relaunch ‘Your Future Is Now’ Scholarship to Empower HBCU Students in the Music Industry
Los Angeles — November 12, 2024
Amazon Music and the Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective (BMC) have relaunched their “Your Future Is Now” scholarship program for the fourth consecutive year, continuing their mission to support students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in exploring diverse career paths within the music industry. Since its inception in 2021, this initiative has provided HBCU students with networking opportunities, mentorship from music industry leaders, and hands-on experiences through Amazon Music and Recording Academy department rotations.
Empowering HBCU Students with Scholarships and Grants
This year, five selected HBCU students will each receive a $10,000 scholarship to support their educational journeys. Additionally, two HBCUs will be awarded $10,000 grants each to enhance their music programs with new equipment, providing essential resources to future music professionals.
Celebrating with Big Sean at Amazon Music Live
To celebrate the program’s fourth year, Amazon Music hosted a unique episode of Amazon Music Live, featuring seven-time BET Award-winning artist Big Sean. The concert took place after Thursday Night Football and included North Carolina A&T’s renowned Blue and Gold Marching Machine and The Fellowship Gospel Choir. During the performance, Amazon Music and the Recording Academy presented North Carolina A&T with the first $10,000 donation for music instruments.
A Partnership for the Future of Black Music Professionals
The “Your Future Is Now” scholarship program reflects Amazon Music and the BMC’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of Black music creators and industry leaders. Phylicia Fant, Amazon Music’s Head of Music Industry and Culture Collaborations, expressed pride in the impact of the program, highlighting the progress of past scholarship recipients who are now forging careers in the music industry.
Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. also underscored the importance of this initiative, emphasizing the need to invest in young Black professionals who will shape the future of music.
Application Information
The scholarship application is open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents currently enrolled at HBCUs pursuing bachelor’s degrees in music, music business, marketing, communications, or related fields. Applicants are required to submit a transcript, personal statement, a creative video, and one online recommendation. The application deadline is December 13, with selected recipients announced in early January. [Apply here].
Ongoing HBCU Homecoming Celebrations with Amazon Music
In tandem with HBCU Homecoming season, Amazon Music has organized Homecoming pop-ups at HBCUs across the nation, including North Carolina A&T, Florida A&M, Howard University, and Jackson State University. These events offer students and alumni a chance to enjoy music, interactive photo moments, and exclusive merchandise. Additionally, Amazon Music has released a “Homecoming SZN” playlist to accompany HBCU celebrations across the country.
About Amazon Music
Amazon Music is a premier audio service offering fans access to music, podcasts, and curated playlists. Prime members can enjoy a vast library of ad-free content and exclusive artist livestreams. Learn more at Amazon Music.
About the Black Music Collective
The Black Music Collective, under the GRAMMY® umbrella, unites influential leaders in Black music to build community and align on shared goals. Learn more at Black Music Collective.
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