7/31 - Advocacy

RECAP

- Rachel Stilwell began her career as a record executive, working in radio promotion at Verve, and developed a deep interest in artist advocacy and representation.

- Her passion for free speech and advocacy began in 1985 as a teenager, inspired by artists defending freedom of expression when lawmakers debated music censorship.

- Each career transition Rachel made was unintentional but perfectly time; as a record executive for 15 years, she experienced changes with the Telecommunications Act in 1996.

- Deciding to attend law school, she initially thought to leave the music industry but found her way back, working with artists in intellectual property in law.

- Rachel is involved with the Recording Academy, highlighting participation opportunities like Grammy U for college students and various membership types, including voting membership.

- She emphasizes the importance of District Advocacy Day, where Recording Academy members meet with federal lawmakers to advocate for artist-supportive bills in a bipartisan effort.

- Building connections with representatives through advocacy has helped her forge relationships and grow her business in the legal field.

- In the current political climate, Rachel remains optimistic, believing change happens through active participation, open dialogue, and making voices heard both inside and outside the political system

Julie Pilat - CGO, FYI

Roneal Madlani - Head of Community, FYI

Sean Kantrowitz - Director of Media & Content, FYI

Emily Choi - Growth, FYI

Frankie Sandoval - Design, FYI

Meka Lolita - Music Curation, FYI

Aminah Muhammad - Social Media, FYI

Markus Nielsen-Kolding - Product Manager, FYI

Karmen Huerta - RAiDiO Editorial, FYI

— — —
Cinder Eller - TV Personality

Khalilah - Multimedia Instructor

Imari Tuakli - Speaker & Coach

Kai Urbany - Musician

MR DOZ - Vibe Curator & Creator

Crown - Musician & Fashion Designer

Helen Sto - Model & Host

Mo Hiromoto - Coach

Kristin Juel - Founder | Juel Concepts

RomanMusiq - Producer

Will Jordan - Artist

Bilal Ré - Songwriter / Artist

Sydney Davis - Founder | Artist Talk Mental Health

DJ Teo -

JT - Writer / Producer

Kiara Durán - Podcast Host

Kev - Songwriter

Goal:

3 Ways People Can Support:

- On the hunt for editors who are inspired by the story of the trailer

- Looking for venues with large screens and open spaces for our next retreat

- Connections to people who are feeling stuck in life and looking for a retreat to launch their next chapter

Goal:

The goal of this photoshoot is to visually reintroduce myself as an artist whose music is rooted in self-discovery, cultural legacy, and spiritual evolution.

3 Ways People Can Support:

1. Songwriter Collaborators

I’d like to partner with writers who resonate with my message and aesthetics. This shoot sets the tone for new sounds, so the right songwriting collabs can help shape cohesive, emotionally resonant songs for my next project.

2. Fashion Designers & Stylists

Collaborate with designers whose work reflects my themes. Earthy textures, layered silhouettes, bold statements, and rooted materials. Whether through custom pieces or curated looks.

3. Brand Strategist or Content Planner

Help me build a rollout that’s intentional and expressive, deciding how and when to drop the photos, what stories to pair them with, and how to keep the visuals consistent across platforms (from Instagram to Spotify to press kits).

Goal:

My goal is to host an Artist Talk Mental Health event in Los Angeles. I want to bring the energy, healing experience to a new community, creating a space where Black artists can share their stories, process their mental health through creative expression, and connect with others through open, facilitated dialogue.

3 Ways People Can Support:

- Creative Collaborators

I’m looking to connect with artists, entrepreneurs, mental health professionals, and wellness leaders & abdicated in LA who align with the mission of Artist Talk and want to co-create something meaningful. Whether you’re a performer, healer, or behind-the-scenes visionary.

- A Venue

Securing the right space is key to making this event happen. I’m looking for a venue that feels warm, welcoming, and community-rooted—somewhere that can hold both performance and deep conversation. That would possibly be willing to donate a space to us.

- Promotion & Presence

Once the date and details are confirmed, I’d love support spreading the word and showing up. Bring your people, share the story, and help build a space where folks feel seen, safe, and supported. Your presence matters!