Zuko Komisa

The Grammys expand efforts to support music creators in Africa and the Middle East.
The Recording Academy (GRAMMYs) is trying to reach a wider audience worldwide for musicians in fields that are developing quickly.
The Academy said on Tuesday that it has signed agreements to work together to improve the Academy’s services and presence throughout the Middle East and Africa with Ministries of Culture and other important partners.
Nigerian superstar Davido, Beninois-French singer-songwriter and actress Angelique Kidjo as well as US singer and actor John Legend all expressed excitement with the new endeavor.
The Academy revealed in a press release that for the past two years, it has been collaborating with leaders in these areas, taking part in listening sessions, getting high-level briefings, tours, and demonstrations, and getting direct knowledge from the government ministries and artists driving innovation in these markets.
“The Academy is working with the Ministries of Culture in Kenya, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Nigeria, the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and the Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture in South Africa,” per the announcement. MOUs (memoranda of understanding) have been signed with Ghana and the Ivory Coast.The Academy is said to publish a series of reports, highlighting the Academy’s research and insights into these music markets.
“The Recording Academy is dedicated to supporting music creators around the world,” said Panos A. Panay, Recording Academy President. “Our expansion efforts into these fast-growing regions reflect our commitment to fostering a truly global music community, where creators at every stage of their careers and from every corner of the world have the resources and support they need to thrive.”
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