Darey Art Alade, Livespot360’s Chief Creative Officer, has joined the Recording Academy’s 2026 New Member Class, becoming part of a global community of artists, producers, songwriters and music professionals helping shape the future of the recording industry.
The appointment marks another milestone in a career spanning music, live entertainment, business leadership and cultural entrepreneurship, while bringing an African perspective to conversations influencing the future of music around the world.
Reflecting on the recognition, Darey described the appointment as a continuation of a journey shaped by music, culture and purpose.
“From making music in the studio to building platforms that celebrate African creativity, I’ve always believed music has the power to move people, shape culture, and connect the world.”
Established by the Recording Academy, the organisation behind the GRAMMY Awards, the New Member Class brings together creators and industry professionals whose work contributes to the advancement of music through artistic excellence, advocacy and leadership.
Members also contribute to initiatives that support music creators, strengthen the global music community and help shape the future of the recording industry.
For Darey, joining the Academy also presents an opportunity to contribute African perspectives to those conversations.
“I’m proud to lend my voice to a community committed to celebrating excellence, supporting creators, and helping shape the future of our industry.”
Over the last two decades, the multi-award-winning artist and executive has built a career that extends across recording, television, live production, business leadership and cultural entrepreneurship.
From emerging as one of Nigeria’s defining contemporary R&B voices to directing large-scale entertainment experiences, his work has consistently explored the intersection of music, storytelling, technology and live experiences.
Through productions such as Love Like A Movie, Darey helped redefine the scale of live concert production in Nigeria, setting a new benchmark for theatrical entertainment experiences.
As Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Livespot360, he has also led the development of festivals, live productions, brand experiences and entertainment properties that continue to connect African talent, audiences and culture across the continent and beyond.
His inclusion in the Recording Academy’s 2026 New Member Class reflects the growing presence of African professionals contributing to conversations shaping the future of the global recording industry.
For Darey, the recognition also carries a deeper sense of responsibility.
“Here’s to representing Nigeria, Africa, and every creative who believes their story deserves to be heard.”
This appointment reflects the growing influence of African creative leaders across global institutions and reinforces Livespot360’s commitment to building platforms that expand opportunities for African talent, stories and culture.