Today, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and YouTube’s Global Head of Music Lyor Cohen announced the first list of U.S. Global Music Ambassadors as part of the U.S. Department of State-YouTube Global Music Diplomacy Partnership. These Global Music Ambassadors will use their music on behalf of the American people to bring people together and promote peace around the world. The Department and YouTube will announce additional U.S. Global Music Ambassadors in the coming months.
These American music artists, songwriters and producers exemplify excellence in their fields and have demonstrated a commitment to public service and giving back. Beginning this year, U.S. Global Music Ambassadors will engage audiences ranging from youth to marginalized individuals to world leaders to elevate music as a diplomatic platform to expand access to education, economic opportunity, and equality and inclusion. Their efforts will build on the historic legacy of the Jazz Ambassadors of the 1950s and 1960s, which included iconic American musicians and performers such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Dave Brubeck and Sarah Vaughan.
The US Global Music Ambassadors are:
- Chuck D
Chuck D is a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Grammy Lifetime Achievement winner. He is the co-founder of Public Enemy and Prophets of Rage. He is known around the world as a legend, activist, outstanding artist, and best-selling author.
“Bridging cultural divides and inspiring positive change has been part of my life’s work and it’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly. Being a Global Music Ambassador is an opportunity to use my voice and music to inspire everyone. New generations of humans, from many places, are leading, activating and uniting – creating a better world through music, the universal language.” – Chuck D, US Global Music Ambassador
- Grace Bowers
Emerging as a dynamic artist in the music scene, Grace Bowers has performed in the Allman Family Revival at the renowned Ryman Auditorium, notably debuted three sets at the 2023 Newport Folk Festival, and is set to release her debut album this year.
“Music is one of the most important things to me and it has brought so many incredible people into my life. I am proud to have the chance to be the US Global Music Ambassador, it is a great opportunity to bring the world together for music and help advance peace.” – Grace Bowers, US Global Music Ambassador
- Breland
A one-of-a-kind figure in country music, Breland is shaping the genre’s future with his bold originality and visionary sound.
“As a Black artist making a somewhat unconventional journey in country music, I’ve always said that I believe ‘country music is for everyone.’ For me, the connective tissue of the genre lies in storytelling, and everyone has a unique story to tell. The more I travel, the more I realize how intertwined our stories really are. We all have more in common than we think, and our differences don’t have to be barriers. Being a Global Music Ambassador is an incredible honor, and I’m excited to continue using my art to build cultural bridges around the world in the way only music can. That 8-year-old kid from Burlington, New Jersey spinning his globe trot could never have imagined where his gifts would take him, but I couldn’t be more grateful for this opportunity now.” – Breland, US Global Music Ambassador
- Kane Brown
Named “The Future of Country Music” (Billboard), multi-platinum-selling, award-winning singer/songwriter Kane Brown recently released the follow-up to his 11th #1 single at country radio – “Miles On It” with Marshmello – and is on his 2024 In The Air headline tour.
“I’m proud to be a Global Music Ambassador and travel around the world representing country music. Music brings people together and I feel so lucky to be able to be a part of that by traveling around the world. I’ve had the chance to meet so many incredible fans in so many different countries around the world.” – Kane Brown, US Global Music Ambassador
- herbie hancock
Herbie Hancock is an internationally renowned pianist and composer who is one of the most innovative and influential musicians of our time. A true icon of modern music, he has shaped the direction of jazz, fusion, funk and hip-hop for more than six decades.
“Music has never been more needed than it is right now. I’ve spent my whole life connecting people through music, and serving as the United States Global Music Ambassador is a great opportunity to work with the U.S. State Department, YouTube, and my fellow musicians to promote peace and unity for citizens around the world.” – Herbie Hancock, US Global Music Ambassador
- jelly Roll
Jelly Roll is an award-winning, Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter whose debut country album, Whitsitt Chapel, hit the Top 3 on the Billboard 200 All Genre chart and #2 on the Top Country Albums chart. The Billboard Country Power List cover star received Billboard’s 2023 Breakthrough Award and the People’s Choice Award for Male Country Artist of the Year.
“I’ve just been able to announce the dates for my first official international tour, so partnering with YouTube and the U.S. State Department to become a global music ambassador feels especially meaningful.” – Jelly Roll, US Global Music Ambassador
- Teddy Swims
Continuing to move to the forefront of popular culture, Teddy Swims has spent much of 2024 on his sold-out I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy world tour, and has released a live version of the album with his band Freak Freely and I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1.5).
“When YouTube asked me to be part of the US Global Ambassadorship Program, it was a no-brainer. I’ve said it before – music saved my life and being part of a program that believes in the power of bringing people together from all walks of life, generations and cultural backgrounds through music is what I love and hope to do with my music. I always say we need to build long tables, not high fences.” – Teddy Swims, US Global Music Ambassador
- Justin Tranter
Two-time Grammy Award-nominated Justin Tranter is one of the most sought-after producers and songwriters in music today, an ACLU Bill of Rights award-winning activist, and founder of Facet Records and Facet Publishing.
“As a Global Music Ambassador, I have the honor of representing my country and using the art of songwriting to help promote peace and unity. Through melody and lyrics, I strive to create songs that resonate globally, celebrating our shared humanity while acknowledging our unique experiences. Collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds, we create a harmonious chorus that transcends differences and inspires connection. As an ambassador I hope to continue using the power of music to bridge divides, heal wounds, and ignite a collective sense of hope.” – Justin Tranter, US Global Music Ambassador
- Armani White
Pensive, yet cheerfully energetic, Armani White wants to trademark happy hood music. Combining a deft flow with intense introspection and soulful melodies, the 27-year-old artist delivers a colorful, yet poignant soundtrack for survivors.
“My goal in creating art has always been to be a part of history. And this is one of those historic moments that I’m honored to be a part of. I think in 50 years this will be remembered as one of those pivotal years that shaped the future of music, so I’m carving out my space as the voice of my city and culture and flying a flag for all unique creative people.”– Armani White, US Global Music Ambassador - Lainey Wilson
Lainey Wilson is a multi-award-winning singer-songwriter and actress who won her first Grammy for “Best Country Album” last year. One of the most awarded artists at the 2023 CMA Awards, Wilson has proven that she is an “artist to watch.”
“I am so honored to participate in this event as the U.S. Global Music Ambassador for the launch of the Global Music Diplomacy Partnership. The power of art and storytelling is incredibly important and I am grateful for the opportunities to travel and connect with people through songs and music around the world.”– Lainey Wilson, US Global Music Ambassador
For more information, please contact [email protected] or visit www.state.gov/music-diplomacy,
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