Darey Art Alade, Sasha P, Danny Young Among Recording Academy’s Historic 2026 New Member Class

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

For its 2026 New Member Class, the Recording Academy invited over 4,000 music creators and professionals, making it the largest intake in the organisation’s history. The invitees – who include over 3,100 voting members and over 900 professional members – feature a highly diverse roster of artists, with 50 percent under 40 years old, 43 percent women and 55 percent people of colour.

The Recording Academy announced the new members, comprising singers, songwriters, producers, engineers and other music professionals from across the industry. With this induction officially become part of the prestigious global community of music executives and professionals behind the GRAMMY Awards, directly helping to influence and shape the future of the recording industry.

Some notable Nigerian industry figures inducted include trailblazing music artistes and executives such as Darey Art Alade, Sasha P, and Danny Young. This landmark cross-industry selection marks a spectacular milestone for the West African contingent, with each creative bringing decades of distinct leadership to the international table.

These Nigerian music representatives were officially invited, bridging significant West African creative leadership to the Grammys ecosystems. Reflecting on this major recognition, the new inductees expressed immense gratitude and excitement to join a community dedicated to shaping the future of global music and preserving the legacy.

Multi-award-winning recording artist, Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer at Livespot360, Darey Art Alade, described the appointment as a continuation of a journey deeply shaped by music, culture, and purpose. “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.”

For Darey, it is the perfect space to amplify the brilliant narratives coming out of Nigeria and the wider 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,” he says. “Here’s to representing Nigeria, Africa, and every creative who believes their story deserves to be heard.”

Afrobeats artiste, songwriter, and producer, Danny Young, a pioneering figure from the early Afropop era, describes it as a 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.”

Sasha P, the CEO of Purple Entertainment, regarded as one of the architects of Nigerian hip-hop, shared her thoughts, saying, “Honoured to join the Recording Academy’s 2026 New Member Class. 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. Looking forward to what’s ahead.”

Members participate in the Grammys voting process and contribute to initiatives supporting the recording industry. By taking their seats, they bring invaluable African perspectives to crucial international conversations that dictate where global music goes next as members participate in the Grammys voting process and contribute to initiatives supporting the recording industry.