GOT THOSE GLOBAL DIPLOMACY BLUES AGAIN, MAMA

U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and the Recording Academy gathered in Washington, D.C., on 9/27 for the launch of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, which promotes music as a diplomatic tool to foster peace and democracy. As part of the evening’s festivities, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr. bestowed on legendary producer-composer-exec Quincy Jones the first-ever Peace through Music Award.

Heavy hitters in attendance were treated to performances from Dave Grohl, Mickey Guyton, Herbie Hancock, LADAMA as well as a cover of Muddy Waters’ “Hoochie Coochie Man” featuring Secretary Blinken on guitar and vocals. It was the most memorable performance of a blues tune by a government official since John Foster Dulles' legendary rendition of "Little Red Rooster" in the Rose Garden just after the Korean War armistice.

“From advocating for the PEACE Through Music Diplomacy Act in 2022, to partnering with the U.S. State Department on the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, the Academy firmly believes that music’s power can be a global force for good," goes a quote from Mason. "We’re honored to begin our work with the State Department to promote peace and cross-cultural understanding through music while continuing our mission to lift up music people around the globe.”

Also announced as part of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative was the American Music Mentorship Program, created in partnership between the U.S. Department of State and the Recording Academy, which will bring international artists and music industry professionals to the U.S. for mentorships and networking opportunities. The program is set to launch in the fall of 2024.

In related news, the Tedeschi Trucks Band will be overseeing our diplomatic mission to Ukraine.

Photo by Getty Images for the Recording Academy