African music executive and social entrepreneur Eddie Hatitye has been invited to join the Recording Academy’s Class of 2026, earning recognition for nearly two decades of work developing Africa’s music industry and expanding its influence on the global stage.
Hatitye joins the prestigious organisation as a Professional Member, becoming part of an international community of artists, producers, songwriters, engineers and music executives committed to advancing the recording industry and celebrating excellence through the Grammy Awards.
The invitation acknowledges Hatitye’s extensive contribution to Africa’s creative economy, where he has worked across music industry development, cultural policy, entrepreneurship, research, investment and international partnerships to strengthen the continent’s music ecosystem.
Among his most significant achievements is leading the establishment and growth of the Music In Africa Foundation, one of the continent’s foremost music development organisations. During his tenure, the foundation launched and expanded flagship initiatives including ACCES, Africa’s leading music business conference, alongside programmes such as NEFCISA, Gender@Work and the Sound Connects Fund. These initiatives have supported thousands of artists and music professionals through skills development, research, market access, mobility and employment opportunities.
Hatitye has also played an influential role beyond the foundation. In 2025, he was appointed by the World Intellectual Property Organization as an international expert for its Creative Industries Forum in the Caribbean. He has also worked as a senior consultant for the World Bank Group, contributing to the implementation of the CREATIFI programme in Mozambique and Senegal to strengthen creative industries and improve sector competitiveness.
As an entrepreneur, Hatitye founded InterArts Funding, an agency that helps African social enterprises, non profit organisations and creative businesses secure funding while providing strategic advisory and organisational development services.
Alongside his executive responsibilities, Hatitye has maintained an active career as a record producer under his Epic Minds production imprint. His production credits include collaborations with artists such as Camidoh, Skales, S’Villa, Trigmatic and Ghanaian highlife legend Ebo Taylor.
“It is an honour to join the Recording Academy,” Hatitye said.
“This recognition reflects not only my own journey but also the many artists, colleagues, organisations and partners I have had the privilege of working with throughout my career. African music has become one of the world’s most influential cultural forces, and I look forward to contributing to global conversations while continuing to advocate for greater recognition and opportunities for African creators and the wider music ecosystem.”
His appointment comes at a time when African music continues to enjoy unprecedented international growth, with artists, producers and music entrepreneurs increasingly shaping global charts, festivals and industry conversations.
Hatitye’s inclusion in the Recording Academy’s Class of 2026 underscores the growing influence of African music professionals within global institutions and reflects the continent’s expanding role in shaping the future of the international recording industry.
