Ghanaian music legend and four-time GRAMMY nominee Rocky Dawuni stood out as a powerful voice at the 2nd Annual Future Forum on April 10 — the finale of GRAMMYs On The Hill 2025. The event, hosted by the Recording Academy, brought together artists, policymakers, and industry leaders to advocate for a vibrant and equitable music future.
The Future Forum marked the conclusion of the Academy’s two-day advocacy initiative from April 8–10, designed to spark dialogue around artists’ rights, industry challenges, and cultural policy.
Dawuni, known globally for his ‘Afro roots’ sound that fuses Reggae, Highlife, Soul, and Afrobeats, used his platform to champion cultural unity and creators’ rights. “Music is a universal language that bridges cultures and inspires change,” he stated. “As creators, we must unite to protect our rights and ensure our voices shape policies that uplift communities—from Ghana to the global stage.”
Dawuni’s influence spans decades and continents. In addition to his artistry, he is a respected activist, serving as a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador for Africa on environmental issues and a Global Ambassador for UNESCO’s World Day of African and Afro-descendant Culture.
Representing both his media consultancy theafricandream.co and the Ghana Embassy in Washington, D.C., journalist and cultural advocate Oral Ofori joined the event alongside Ghana’s Acting Ambassador to the U.S., Mr. Francis Gborglah. “Ghana is immensely proud of Rocky Dawuni’s global influence and advocacy for music creators,” Gborglah remarked. “His presence reflects our commitment to supporting policies that empower artists worldwide.”
GRAMMYs On The Hill 2025 also honored seven-time GRAMMY-winning country artist Randy Travis, along with U.S. Representatives Linda Sánchez (D-CA) and Ron Estes (R-KS), for their commitment to pro-music legislation.
On April 9, GRAMMY nominees, winners, and stakeholders met lawmakers on Capitol Hill to discuss pressing issues including AI protections, fair compensation, and support for live venues. Dawuni later commented to The African Dream, “The digital age has come with challenges that impact identity and creativity. Africa, with its rich cultural heritage, is vulnerable to the lawless appropriation that AI can bring if left unchecked.”
Since its inception in 2001, GRAMMYs On The Hill has helped pass landmark legislation like the Music Modernization Act (2018) and PEACE Through Music Diplomacy Act (2022), with support for over 20 federal and state bills in 2024 alone.
Dawuni’s presence at the forum affirms his role not only as a music pioneer but as a voice for advocacy, using both sound and speech to elevate the global creative community.
Story by Obaapa Janee/ ahotoronline.com
