Darey Art Alade, Sasha P & Danny Young Join the Recording Academy’s 2026 New Member Class

Three Nigerian Music Icons Join Recording Academy’s 2026 Class

The Recording Academy just rolled out a major welcome mat for African music excellence. Nigerian heavyweights Darey Art Alade, Sasha P, and Danny Young have all received invitations to join the prestigious 2026 New Member Class—a recognition that places them among the global voting membership that shapes the GRAMMY Awards. This isn’t just another industry accolade; it’s a seat at the table where the future of music gets decided, and these three veterans are bringing decades of African creative wisdom with them.

For Darey Art Alade, the multi-award-winning artist and Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer at Livespot360, this moment represents the natural evolution of a career built on bridging cultures. “From making music in the studio to building platforms that celebrate African creativity, I’ve always believed music has the power to move people, shape culture, and connect the world,” he shared. His appointment reflects a broader mission: using this platform to amplify the brilliant narratives emerging from Nigeria and across the continent. “I’m proud to lend my voice to a community committed to celebrating excellence, supporting creators, and helping shape the future of our industry,” Darey added.

The Nigerian representation doesn’t stop there. Danny Young, a pioneering force from the early Afropop era who’s been crafting hits for over two decades, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity. “After over two decades of creating, producing, and contributing to the growth of Afrobeats, this is a meaningful milestone in my journey,” the veteran artist, songwriter, and producer noted. Meanwhile, Sasha P—the CEO of Purple Entertainment and a true architect of Nigerian hip-hop—brings her own legacy to the table. “Music has taken me into rooms, onto stages, and into conversations I never imagined,” she reflected, acknowledging the weight of contributing to a global community dedicated to serving creators and advancing the industry.

This trio’s inclusion in the 2026 class signals something bigger than individual achievement. It’s a confirmation of African music’s undeniable influence in global music governance, and a testament to the pioneers who’ve spent years building the infrastructure that today’s Afrobeats explosion stands on. As Darey put it perfectly: “Here’s to representing Nigeria, Africa, and every creative who believes their story deserves to be heard.”

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