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The Recording Academy has appointed Ross Golan as the new co-chair of its Songwriters & Composers Wing

Golan, a well-known advocate for songwriter rights, has penned hits for artists like Ariana Grande, Céline Dion, and Sabrina Carpenter. He will work alongside current chair Evan Bogart and senior managing director Susan Stewart to enhance programs, increase membership, and build stronger connections across the industry. Beyond his songwriting achievements—such as earning BMI’s Songwriter of the Year in 2016 and receiving eight Drama Desk nominations for his theater contributions—Golan hosts the popular podcast "And the Writer Is," which draws over a million weekly listeners. He also broke new ground as the first songwriter on the National Music Publishers Association board and stays involved with Songwriters of North America, while co-chairing the NMPA’s Gold and Platinum Program. His appointment reflects the Academy’s continued dedication to supporting songwriters, particularly as they face financial challenges in the streaming era. Strong leadership during periods of industry change cannot be underestimated. Experienced figures in key roles often drive more balanced and forward-thinking decisions. The dialogue about fair compensation and creative ownership is constantly shifting, making effective advocacy all the more critical. Evan Bogart, a multiplatinum songwriter and publisher, will remain as co-chair while also serving as vice chair on the Recording Academy’s Board of Trustees, a position he took on earlier this year. Commenting on his new role, Golan said, “From the beginning, I’ve watched the S&C Wing offer crucial support to its expanding and varied membership during a difficult time. This is a pivotal moment for songwriters and composers, and having this network is more important than ever. I’m privileged to step in as Co-Chair and excited to collaborate with the entire organization to assist our thousands of members.” Since its establishment in 2021 under Bogart and Stewart, the S&C Wing has focused on building opportunities for recognition, collaboration, advocacy, networking, and education. Membership has now surpassed 6,000 and represents 46% of the Academy’s voting body, according to the fall 2024 membership report. Last year, the Academy also introduced the Songwriter Of The Year, Non-Classical GRAMMY Award, offering another avenue to honor excellence in the profession. The Wing has played a key role in advancing policy reforms, including California’s Decriminalizing Artistic Expression Act and the federal HITS Act. Its recent effort, “A Year of Best Practices,” involved coordinating with the Academy’s 12 Chapters to educate members on essential standards through activities ranging from local workshops to a global virtual premiere spanning nine countries.

Category:SHOW BIZ NEWS

MSG team 2025-08-21