The Recording Academy’s Annual District Advocate Initiative Promotes Grassroots Advocacy in Mu

The Recording Academy hosted its annual District Advocate initiative, the most extensive grassroots advocacy movement in the music industry, designed to support creators. During this event, Recording Academy members engaged with local Congressional offices and fellow music creators to address crucial advocacy issues within the music community.

Amid ongoing uncertainties in Washington this season, this year’s initiative featured a blend of virtual and in-person meetings with Members of Congress and their staff, alongside Chapter Open Houses with Advocacy webinar viewings. Nearly 1,800 Academy members took part in 105 meetings and watch parties across 46 states and Washington, D.C., including prominent cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Orlando, Philadelphia, and New Orleans. They had discussions with Members of Congress, including Rep. Maxwell Frost and Rep. Jerry Nadler, on topics related to safeguarding human creativity, the freedom of expression, and the vitality of live music experiences.

As part of the key policy areas discussed during the event included, the organization launched the Help Independent Tracks Succeed (HITS) Act – This proposed legislation aims to amend the tax code, enabling independent artists to fully deduct the costs associated with creating new recordings from their taxes.