NAMM YP I BY JAMEYEL “J. DASH” JOHNSON The Power of Early Advocacy
A s the grandson of a sharecropper, I never expected my music career to land me in a senator’s office, let alone sitting across the table from someone who helps decide the future of the industry I love. But there I was — no piano, no mic, just my voice and a mission. That’s the moment I realized my biggest instrument wasn’t my keyboard or my pen. It was my ability to advocate. For years, society has found ways to tell people like me that our voices are smaller. Yet, there I was, holding the attention of someone who represents 30 million people. That conversation helped secure
ing its implications can help you advocate for fairer pay. JOIN THE MOVEMENT Organizations like NAMM, The Recording Academy or local musi- cian unions have advocacy arms that fight for music education and artists’ rights. Get involved to stay informed and connected. NETWORK WITH A PURPOSE Attend industry events, webi- nars and advocacy meet-ups. One handshake at an advocacy event could be worth more than a thousand cold emails. SHARE YOUR STORY Use social media, blogs or pod- casts to highlight industry issues. Many successful artists — like Taylor Swift and her push for fairer streaming payouts — have influenced industry changes sim- ply by speaking up. VOLUNTEER YOUR TALENTS Offer your skills to non-profits supporting musicians. Whether it’s performing at a benefit concert or helping with outreach, these contributions can amplify your impact and grow your visibility. Advocacy works best when more artists join the chorus. Start today — visit NAMM and The Re- cording Academy’s advocacy pages and connect with local musician groups. Every major movement in music started with someone speaking up. Your voice is more powerful than you think. Use it. MI Jameyel “J. Dash” Johnson is a multi-platinum rapper, songwriter, music producer, engineer and award-winning film composer. He’s the founder of SlapDash Productions. Currently, J. Dash is on the board of directors of The Long Center for Performing Arts, the Rise Center for Liberation and a national advocate for music education with the NAMM Foundation.
over $1B in federal funding for music programs, di- rectly impacting the careers of independent artists, music educators and future generations. It was then I realized: if I could influence change, so could every musician who understands the power of advocacy. Getting involved in advocacy isn’t about firing off angry tweets or storming the Capitol with a gui- tar case. It’s more like adding the perfect riff to a song — subtle, but transformative. Here’s why early involvement can be a game-changer for your career: INFLUENCE CHANGE THAT AFFECTS YOUR LIVELIHOOD Policies dictate streaming royalties, music education funding and even venue regulations. Advocating for fair policies ensures kids can learn music in schools and musicians get paid what they deserve — because exposure doesn’t cover rent.
EXPAND YOUR NETWORK IN MEANINGFUL WAYS Advocacy introduces you to musicians, busi- ness owners and policymakers who shape the industry. Connections I’ve made through advocacy have led to opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise. GIVE YOUR BRAND A PURPOSE Fans and industry leaders support artists who stand for something. Having a strong advocacy stance can differentiate you in a crowded mar- ket. Plus, understanding industry policies helps you navigate contracts, negotiations and career
“Getting involved in advocacy isn’t about
firing off angry Tweets ... It’s more like adding the perfect riff to a song — subtle but transformative.”
decisions with more confidence.
Advocacy is about making your voice an instrument of influence. If you’re ready to jump in, here are some actionable tips to get started: DO YOUR HOMEWORK Know the policies affecting music creators. For example, the Ameri- can Music Fairness Act impacts streaming royalties — understand-
26 I MUSIC INC. I MAY 2025
Powered by FlippingBook