When prominent Black-owned media companies come to mind, Ebony, around for more than 75 years, is at the top of the list. The Recording Academy has recognized its contribution to the Black community and has entered a partnership under the new leadership of President/CEO Harvey Mason Jr.
Their first order of business is Recording Academy x Ebony: Black Music Collective Podcast, a new weekly podcast, which debuted today. Hosted by rap trailblazer and two-time Grammy nominee MC Lyte, its six episodes will feature discussion from various members of the Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective regarding how to achieve sustainability in their respective fields has impacted and influenced their community and the music industry at large.
Debra Lee, former chairman and CEO of BET Networks, is the inaugural guest on the show. Other BMC members scheduled to add to the conversation include Jam & Lewis, H.E.R., Ledisi, Jeff Harleston, and Yolanda Adams.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Recording Academy to celebrate and spotlight the artists and creators within the Black Music Collective and to be able to share their incredible journeys and stories through this dynamic, new series with our audiences,” said Adam Roth, Senior Vice President, Partnerships & Business Development of the Recording Academy.
Ebony’s CEO Michele Ghee added, “These conversations are compelling and so necessary to ignite ways to tell the stories of our rich musical legacy and to recognize those who have contributed so greatly to it.”
New episodes of the series will be released every Thursday at 8 p.m. EST for the next few weeks until July 29. They can be streamed on EBONY’s official website, YouTube channel, and Facebook. They can also be found on the GRAMMY.com/BlackMusicCollectivePodcast, and The Recording Academy’s official Facebook.
On July 9, the day after their “Legend Status” episode goes live, Jam & Lewis will release their debut album Jam & Lewis, Vol. 1. The guest-packed album features the singles “Somewhat Loved (There You Go Breakin’ My Heart)” with Mariah Carey and “He Don’t Know Nothin’ Bout You” featuring Babyface. There are also appearances from Mary J. Blige, Usher, Toni Braxton, Boyz II Men, Charlie Wilson, Heather Headley, Morris Day, Jerome, and The Roots.
Ledisi will embark on The Wild Card tour beginning October 13. Special guests include Keyon Dixon and Stout. See dates and ticket information here.
Additionally, H.E.R. released her debut album Back of My Mind. The set included 21 songs that featured the platinum-selling hit single “Damage,” along with additional tracks “We Made It,” “Come Through,” and “Hold On.”