Elevated experiences celebrating the culture through dance and rhythm
Elevated experiences celebrating the culture through dance and rhythm
The Recording Academy just delivered a major win for Nigerian music as three of the country’s most respected industry figures received invitations to join its prestigious 2026 New Member Class. Darey Art Alade, Sasha P, and Danny Young will now take their seats among the global community of artists, producers, songwriters, and executives who shape the GRAMMY Awards and influence the direction of the recording industry worldwide. This recognition represents more than individual achievement—it’s a powerful statement about African music’s growing seat at the table where global industry decisions are made.
Darey Art Alade, the multi-award-winning recording artist and Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer at Livespot360, sees this appointment as a natural extension of his life’s work. “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 in response to the news. For an artist who has consistently championed African creativity through both his music and business ventures, this platform offers an opportunity to amplify Nigerian narratives on an even larger scale. “I’m proud to lend my voice to a community committed to celebrating excellence, supporting creators, and helping shape the future of our industry,” he added.
Joining Darey in this historic 2026 cohort are two other pioneers who’ve spent over two decades defining Nigerian music. Danny Young, the veteran Afrobeats artist, songwriter, and producer who helped shape the early Afropop era, expressed his gratitude for the milestone: “After over two decades of creating, producing, and contributing to the growth of Afrobeats, this is a meaningful milestone in my journey. I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring my experience and voice to the global music community and contribute to the Grammy Awards process.” Meanwhile, Sasha P—the pioneering rap icon and CEO of Purple Entertainment who’s widely considered one of the architects of Nigerian hip-hop—reflected on her journey: “Music has taken me into rooms, onto stages, and into conversations I never imagined. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a global community committed to serving creators and shaping the future of our industry.”
The selection of these three powerhouses signals the Recording Academy’s recognition of African professionals’ undeniable influence within international music governance. As Darey eloquently put it, “Here’s to representing Nigeria, Africa, and every creative who believes their story deserves to be heard.” With decades of combined experience and deep roots in the Nigerian music ecosystem, this trio brings invaluable perspective to conversations that will determine where global music heads next.
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