Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Hernandez.
Hi Melissa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2020 started my career in the music industry, I didn’t have an internship or any connections to get in the door. I started doing as much research as possible regarding different industry roles and the ins and outs of how a label works. I started my industry journey by participating in a program and partnership between the Clive Davis Institute and Billboard. This six-week course focused on the history of the recording industry, the music business creativity in content & artistry, building Image, producing the Record & marketing music in the new economy. Once this program was finished, I instantly applied this knowledge & sought out many different internships in the music industry. Later on, I got an email from billboard & I got an opportunity to go to Latin Music Week. It was a fun experience. I got the chance to have conversations with artists, producers, doing workshops, showcases, and performances with Latin’s top hitmakers, actors, influencers, and industry leaders. Also, I got the opportunity to go Billboard Latin Music Awards. My next step in the door was becoming a student ambassador for The Recording Academy, which allowed me to start networking with the people who work at different chapters. This role allowed me to become a Grammy U member, which opened up many doors, such as the mentorship program. This program allowed me to be a part of many private listening parties from labels such as Women In Music, Universal Music Group, and She Is The Music.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My music industry journey has not been smooth. During the upcoming difficult moments and tribulations in this industry, I often found myself doing work but not progressing in what I wanted to do in life. As I soon realized my constant mistakes, I started to see progress in my industry journey within relationships, jobs, and opportunities. Also dealing with people who try to tear me down because of my success. I think that’s the biggest lesson I’ve needed to learn is how to be present in the moment and continuing my journey, and enjoy myself. I think I’ve been doing this long enough to realize that no matter what people think of me, I always shine through at the end of the day. I’ve always been myself… I’ve been graceful, and I’ve tried to handle myself with as much work and effort, and it’s only because I know how hard I work and I’m not gonna let any of that get to me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My career journey in the music industry as a full-time college student, Grammys Member and Women in Music Member is not easy. Knowing that it’s difficult, the success I see in my future keeps me going. As stated before, having patience is the key to my success while being in college. I’ve learned along the way to be on time, consistent, humble, & not to give your best ideas away. In time I’m most excited about my journey as a continuing Public Relations, A&R, Marketing, Journalism and Radio Host. I want the world to know about me & my brand because I’m on the rise as a young executive & an industry changer.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I believe all students who currently in college should sign up GRAMMY U Program. Grammy U connects college students with the industry’s brightest and most talented minds, GRAMMY U provides aspiring professionals with the tools and opportunities necessary to start a career in music. Throughout each semester, events and special programs touch on all facets of the industry, including the business, technology, and the creative process. As part of the Recording Academy’s mission to ensure the recorded arts remain a thriving part of our shared cultural heritage, GRAMMY U establishes the necessary foundation so that music’s next generation flourishes. Also each semester, Grammy U – a nationwide program that connects college students with music industry professionals- hosts a mentorship program. Mentors and student mentees are paired based on the interests of the student and experience of the mentor. Few months ago, I was paired with Fiona Bloom who is the founder of The Bloom Effect, with precious experience at EMI records running marketing campaigns. It was a great experience because I enjoy the mentorship program through the Recording Academy, in partnership with GRAMMY U, because it allows me to do that. It’s important to work, and I look forward to continuing impacting the new faces in music that need assistance!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melz.xx_/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/melzx98
Image Credits
Charles R. Moss
