Harvey Mason Jr., the son of influential jazz drummer Harvey Mason, is one of the most important figures in music. His exceptional taste sonically and lyrically has shaped records for the likes of Aretha Franklin, Elton John, Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton, Chris Brown, and countless others.
Mason’s role in music just got bigger with news that he’s been appointed as chair of the Recording Academy’s Board of Trustees. A step up from his previous position as co-chair of the Academy’s National Advocacy Committee, the legendary music maker will use his new role to ensure his fellow music creators are “fairly compensated for their valuable work.”
As fans continue to steer away from buying music and turning to streaming platforms, Mason realizes this “has been both harmful and helpful.”
He continued, “Obviously, the reduction in royalties generated has affected our bottom line, but the opportunity to release more music faster and more efficiently has been a huge benefit.”
With the well-being of music creators at the top of his agenda, Mason is confident about the future of the music community, advocating that each of them “have a place to turn in times of financial or medical need,” as well as “making certain that music is both honored and preserved.”
Congratulations again, Harvey Mason Jr.