During a significant gathering hosted by the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) in anticipation of the Grammy Awards, recording artist Victoria Monét shared profound insights on critical issues affecting the music landscape: mentorship, gatekeeping, and nepotism. Her address underscored the necessity for those in positions of power to wield their influence conscientiously, transforming obstacles into avenues for emerging talent. Monét's vision of "ethical gatekeeping" and "purpose-driven nepotism" calls for a collective effort to uplift and empower the next generation, advocating for a music ecosystem where shared success is prioritized over individual advancement.
The Black Music Action Coalition's Grammy Week festivities are renowned for their blend of style and purpose, drawing in a diverse array of established and rising stars alongside prominent music industry executives. This year's event, held at Sun Rose in Hollywood, honored the indelible impact of hitmakers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis on contemporary music. Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Victoria Monét co-hosted the evening, which also celebrated Jonathan Azu, founder of Culture Collective, with the inaugural BMAC Music Maker Impact Award for his steadfast commitment to nurturing long-term careers in music. The night featured a dynamic performance by the house band, led by Adam Blackstone, and a captivating jazz piano solo by multiple Grammy winner Jon Batiste.
A pivotal moment of the evening was Monét's articulate speech, a measured yet thought-provoking discourse on the complex dynamics of mentorship, gatekeeping, and nepotism. She began by acknowledging the collective appreciation for music's transformative power—not just as entertainment, but as a catalyst for connection, healing, culture, and opportunity. Monét candidly observed that raw talent, while essential, is insufficient for sustained success in the music industry, noting that talent is ubiquitous. What truly distinguishes a career, she argued, is access, particularly through meaningful mentorship. This involves individuals who not only recognize and believe in others but are also prepared to impart their wisdom and reveal the pathways to achievement.
Monét then delved into the dual concepts of gatekeeping and nepotism, providing clear definitions: gatekeeping as the control of access to opportunities, information, or resources, determining who gains entry, who is heard, and who receives support; and nepotism as the practice of favoring relatives or close associates in opportunities, sometimes irrespective of merit. She affirmed that both practices are prevalent within the music industry. However, instead of advocating for their elimination—recognizing that power structures are inherent—Monét posed a crucial question: How can these structures be utilized responsibly? She posited that neither gatekeeping nor nepotism is inherently negative; their impact hinges on their application. They become detrimental, she asserted, when wielded selfishly or to maintain personal comfort, rather than to cultivate excellence.
Monét urged those in influential positions—be it creative, financial, or cultural—to transcend personal career advancement and become conduits for others. While emphasizing the importance of discernment and high standards, she encouraged opening doors for talented, dedicated, and deserving individuals. Her call to action was for everyone present to leverage their access with intention: to facilitate introductions, advocate for others in their absence, and provide opportunities based on recognized potential and diligence. This approach, she explained, constitutes "ethical gatekeeping" and "purpose-driven nepotism," embodying mentorship in its most effective form. Monét highlighted BMAC as an exemplary platform for fostering this kind of collaborative excellence, reminding attendees that no one achieves success in isolation. The legacy of their contributions, she concluded, will not be solely measured by accolades or commercial success, but by the extent to which they elevate others alongside themselves, ensuring music's frequency resonates far and wide, and that success is not merely pursued but circulated throughout the community. She then extended an invitation to Jimmy Jam to join her on stage, acknowledging his and Terry Lewis's enduring legacy of excellence, integrity, and empowerment.
