Music Industry Moves: NYU’s Clive Davis Institute Welcomes Back Take a Daytrip as Artists-In-Residence

The Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at NYU is launching its first-ever alumni homecoming artist residency, featuring the Grammy-nominated production duo Take a Daytrip. The group, comprised of David Biral (class of 2015) and Denzel Baptiste (class of 2014), first connected as freshmen at the Institute, united by a common desire to "see the world through music." This initiative marks a significant shift for the program, which has historically hosted established industry giants like Pharrell Williams and Swizz Beatz. By spotlighting its own graduates, the Institute underscores a commitment to nurturing career longevity and peer mentorship.

Since their graduation, Take a Daytrip has crafted an enviable portfolio of hits for major artists including Lil Nas X, Travis Scott, Dua Lipa, and the late Juice Wrld. Their most prominent work includes Lil Nas X's worldwide chart-toppers "Montero (Call Me by Your Name)" and "Industry Baby." Their influence extends beyond production; in 2022, they co-founded the publishing company No Idle with Universal Music Publishing Group and have created sample packs for Apple’s music software. The residency program is designed to be highly interactive, featuring student feedback rounds, a production masterclass, a keynote talk with surprise guests, and a final live performance at The Garage, the Institute's venue in Brooklyn.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the homecoming, David Biral remarked, “It’s a true honor to return to where our journey began. The Clive Davis Institute nurtured our creativity, business acumen, and ambition, and we’re thrilled to give back by sharing our experiences.” Denzel Baptiste described the timing as "super poetic," following a year spent reconnecting with their foundational creative process. Nick Sansano, the Davis chair, highlighted the importance of focusing this year’s programming on alumni, calling the duo’s return an "inspiring precedent" that reflects the Institute’s core mission of creating a self-sustaining creative community.

In a separate industry development, Atlantic Music Group—a major force led by CEO Elliot Grainge—has entered a joint venture with Limosa Nostra Records. Elliot Grainge, the son of Universal Music Group chairman Lucian Grainge, has been building his own reputation as an executive since founding the company Fader Label before taking the helm at Atlantic. The new partner label was founded by artist-entrepreneur Ricky Hil, who is also the son of fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger. The collaboration will concentrate on releasing Hil's own music and developing new talent, such as New York rapper SosMula. Hil voiced his excitement for the alliance, stating his goal is "to put out great music with like-minded people." Grainge praised Hil's dual talents in both creating music and identifying promising artists, suggesting a highly synergistic future for the partnership.