Recording Academy Renames Best Song for Social Change Award in Honor of Late Singer, Actor, and Activist Harry Belafonte

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Submissions for the Newly Named Harry Belafonte Best Song for Social Change Award Now Open Through August 30

The Recording Academy® has officially renamed its Best Song for Social Change Special Merit Award in honor of the late Harry Belafonte, the iconic singer, actor, and activist known for his impactful contributions to social justice. The newly titled Harry Belafonte Best Song for Social Change Award will continue to recognize songwriters whose music addresses important social issues and inspires positive global change.

Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, expressed the organization's pride in renaming the award. "The greatness of Harry Belafonte's artistic legacy is matched by his profound impact on furthering social justice for all," Mason said. "We are honored to recognize his lasting influence with this award and to continue celebrating works that have inspired global communities toward social impact."

The Belafonte family also shared their gratitude for the recognition. "This honor not only celebrates Harry Belafonte's enduring legacy in music and activism, but also inspires future generations to continue using their voices and art for justice and positive change," said Adrienne, Shari, Gina, and Pamela Belafonte in a joint statement.

Harry Belafonte's career, which began in the 1950s and spanned decades, was closely intertwined with his activism. A close friend of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Belafonte played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, organizing events such as the 1961 March on Washington and contributing to the Freedom Rides and Mississippi Freedom Summer. His influence extended to American politics, where he performed at President John F. Kennedy's inaugural ball and later served as a cultural advisor to the Peace Corps.

Belafonte's music career also left an indelible mark on the industry. His 1956 album "Calypso" became the first album to sell over one million copies, setting a new standard in the industry. He continued to advocate for global humanitarian causes, organizing the benefit single "We Are The World" in 1985, which raised funds for famine relief in Africa and won four GRAMMY Awards®. Belafonte was also named a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 1987 and traveled internationally to raise awareness for the needs of children in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Harry Belafonte Best Song for Social Change Award, previously a Special Merit Award, will now be categorized as a CEO's Merit Award. The finalists and recipients will be selected annually by a committee of peers dedicated to artistic expression, songwriting, and the power of music to effect social change.

Submissions for the 2024 Harry Belafonte Best Song for Social Change Award are open from July 17 through August 30. For more information on how to submit and to learn about past recipients, visit the Recording Academy's website.

About the Recording Academy

The Recording Academy represents the voices of performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, and all music professionals. The Academy is dedicated to ensuring that the recording arts remain a vital part of our shared cultural heritage. Through the GRAMMY Museum®, MusiCares®, and the GRAMMY Awards®, the Academy honors music's history, advocates for creators' rights, supports music people in times of need, and celebrates artistic excellence.