Kenyan music legend Eric Wainaina and dynamic executive Melissa Kariuki have been inducted into the Recording Academy’s 2025 New Member Class. This milestone not only celebrates their individual achievements but also amplifies Kenya’s influence in the global music scene.

Their inclusion highlights a bold move by the Recording Academy to diversify and globalize its membership, ensuring the GRAMMY Awards reflect talent from around the world. With voting rights now in their hands, Wainaina and Kariuki are set to champion African music, paving the way for more acts from the continent to shine on the international stage.