ACM & BMAC Celebrate Completion Of Inaugural OnRamp Program With Showcase

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Pictured: OnRamp inaugural class members with Willie “Prophet” Stiggers (Co-Founder & Chair, BMAC), Stephanie Davenport (VP of A&R, Warner Music Nashville), Wendy Moten (Event Host, Singer-Songwriter–Time Jumpers), Kortney Toney (Manager, Programming & Community Engagement, ACM) and Tommy Moore (Chief of Staff and VP, Artist & Industry Relations, Board Administration & Governance, ACM). Photo: Courtesy of ACM

The Academy of Country Music and the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) celebrated the completion of their inaugural OnRamp professional development program with a showcase at Nashville’s 3rd & Lindsley on Wednesday (May 29).

The first OnRamp class consisted of 20 Black members of the Nashville music community who range from artists to industry professionals.

The showcase was hosted by singer-songwriter Wendy Moten, and featured performances by OnRamp class members, including Jasmine Bavaro, Tylar Bryant, Larysa Jaye, The Kentucky Gentlemen, NBC’s The Voice season 25 contestant Tae Lewis, Roz Malone, Daisha McBride, Qualls and Nick Tabron. Additionally, class members Kim Albritton, Chasidy Lauderdale, Nina Owens, DeDe West and Amari Young worked behind-the-scenes on the evening’s production.

Established in 2023, the OnRamp program centers around improving inclusivity and equity within Music City while empowering the next generation of leaders in the early stages of their careers by providing access to professional development opportunities, community mentorship, industry exposure and more. Each participant is given a $1,000 monthly stipend, and matched with mentors in the music business who specialize in the specific field of the industry they aspire to pursue.

Throughout the year, members performed at venues across Nashville, such as The Basement, The Bluebird Cafe and more, while also participating in industry-led workshops on marketing, songwriting/publishing, agency, live events and networking.

Liza Anderson
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