Now in its fourth year, the Black Music Coalition’s Excellence Honourees initiative recognises emerging talent changing the industry. Here, chair Sheryl Nwosu introduces this year’s Honourees, before we catch up with Keecia Ellis, Founder & Director, Rekodi Music
PHOTO: CALVIN CEILE
How do you feel about being on the Excellence Honourees list?
“I’m extremely grateful to be recognised by the BMC, because it celebrates people shifting culture and pushing the industry forward. For me, it’s bigger than a personal honour, it’s about highlighting Caribbean creativity, which hasn’t always had consistent recognition. Caribbean music helped shape global music culture, but the industry hasn’t always ensured that the creators reaped the benefits of those global structures. Right now, we’re in a moment of recognition, and I want to see that appreciation translate into real change for the people making the music.”
What is the mission behind your publishing company, Rekodi Music?
“Our mission is to collect, protect and respect the art. It sums up everything we stand for. We collect royalties, so creatives actually receive what they’re due. We protect their rights, so they’re not undervalued or overlooked. And we respect the art treating music as culture, not just as content. Rekodi is about giving creators the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to grow their careers while making sure their contributions are valued properly across the music industry.”
We need real investment in music education at every level: artists, songwriters, managers, A&Rs, everyone shaping the business
Keecia Ellis
How is the landscape out there right now for creatives?
“It’s tough. The cost of living, streaming economics and gatekeeping in some areas make it hard for musicians, especially emerging creatives, to make a living solely as a musician. At the same time, technology has made it easier than ever to record and release music, which has added to the crazy volume of tracks coming out every day. The challenge now is cutting through all that noise and turning creativity into something sustainable. There’s never been more opportunity to connect directly with audiences if you’re resourceful, strategic and willing to try new things.”
Why is it important for you personally to be a force for good in the business and help the creators you work with?
“For me, it’s personal. Growing up with my dad, [Jamaican rocksteady musician] Alton Ellis OD, I saw the challenges artists can face around ownership and intellectual property; even highly influential musicians don’t always benefit fully from their work. I want the writers and composers I work with to be supported and fairly rewarded. Being a force for good means giving creatives the space to be authentic and putting them and their artistry first, especially in publishing.”
Is there anything you’d like to say to the industry now you have this platform?
“We need real investment in music education at every level: artists, songwriters, managers, A&Rs, everyone shaping the business. That includes practical support too, like the new offering of per diems for songwriters, so talent can focus on creating, not just surviving. The industry talks about wanting global stars, but then says talent alone isn’t enough. When people actually have the tools and support, that’s when opportunity shows up.”
Can you tell us what it takes to set up and run a successful music company in 2025?
“Resilience and vision! Adapt, embrace technology without losing the human element and know your lane. Building a team and knowing your strengths and weaknesses are all part of it, too.”
