The Recording Academy’s 2026 Entertainment Law Initiative Writing Contest Is Now Open: Submit Student Essays Now

Why did you submit an essay to the ELI Writing Contest? How did you pick your paper topic?

I am a third-year law student at Georgia State College of Law, driven by my passion to protect creators’ work. My mentor, Professor Moraima Ivory, and classmate, Reid Koski, recognized this passion and encouraged me to enter. Noticing TikTok influencers claiming “original audio” while artists’ music played uncompensated in the background, I recognized an opportunity to develop solutions. During Professor Ivory’s class, a guest lecturer sparked my solution when she mentioned redirecting monetization from infringing social media content to original artists.

My paper proposes expanding YouTube’s Content ID model across social media platforms to protect independent artists. While major labels can monetize unauthorized use of their music on platforms like YouTube, emerging artists are limited to takedown notices. My legal education, combined with my expertise in consumer behavior, retail innovation and digital marketing, gives me a unique perspective to create solutions that protect creatives while encouraging innovation.

Are you involved in any on-campus clubs?

I currently serve as social media coordinator for the Sports and Entertainment Law Society, where I combine my legal knowledge with my graphic design expertise, creating digital artwork, merchandise, and social media content.

What inspired you to pursue entertainment law, and what’s your dream role after graduation?

My background in retailing and consumer sciences from the University of Arizona offers a unique perspective on the intersection of business and creative industries. This combination of legal training and business acumen positions me to contribute meaningfully to protecting artists and their unique needs. My goal is to move to California after graduation and work for a major record label or a company like Vogue to help bridge the gap between corporate needs and creative expression.

Runner-Up: Angelina Craig, Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law
Winning Essay: Words On Trial: The Use of Rap Lyrics As Evidence
Follow on Instagram and LinkedIn

Why did you submit an essay to the ELI Writing Contest? How did you pick your paper topic?

I decided to submit my essay after my supervisor, Danielle Logan, during my summer legal internship at Spotify and my mentor, Jamaal A. Castang, Esq., shared the opportunity with me. As a third-year law student, I was aware of the competition, but initially doubted whether I could write something meaningful. Their encouragement pushed me to take a chance, and I’m incredibly grateful that I did.

Being selected as a runner-up was an honor, especially for a topic that doesn’t receive enough mainstream attention despite its significant impact on Black artists. The use of rap lyrics as evidence is a pressing legal and social issue, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the conversation through my writing.

Are you involved in any on-campus clubs?

From 2023 to 2024, I served as the entertainment chair for Drexel’s Sports and Entertainment Law Society (SELS), where I launched SELS’ inaugural newsletter, highlighting the contributions of Black attorneys in sports and entertainment. I am also a student member of the Black Entertainment and Sports Lawyers Association (BESLA).

What inspired you to pursue entertainment law, and what’s your dream role after graduation?

My inspiration to pursue entertainment law stems from the representation of Black female attorneys in television series. Watching Tracee Ellis Ross as Joan Clayton in “Girlfriends,” Yvonne Orji as Molly Carter in “Insecure,” and Erika Alexander as Maxine Shaw in “Living Single” showed me the power and impact of Black women in the legal field.

My journey into entertainment law is my love letter to music, much like the movie Brown Sugar (2002). After graduation, I aspire to work at a record label or entertainment company, managing trademark and copyright portfolios and negotiating contracts.

Runner-Up: Olivia McHenry, Shepard Broad College of Law | Nova Southeastern University

Winning Essay: Hidden Fees And Scalpers Are The Worst, So Put Fans First: Why The Fans First Act Is A More Resourceful Option Over Structural Relief Of Live Nation-Ticketmaster
Follow on Instagram and LinkedIn 

Why did you submit an essay to the ELI Writing Contest? How did you pick your paper topic?

I submitted an essay because I saw it as an opportunity to research and write about a topic I was genuinely interested in. Legal research and writing have been some of my favorite parts of law school, so I saw this opportunity as a fun learning experience. Furthermore, I was excited about the opportunity to have my work published and contribute to impactful discussions in the music industry.

I selected my paper topic because live entertainment ticketing is an issue that affects every role in the entertainment industry, as well as consumers. There has been a lot of public backlash around the ticketing industry, especially in recent years, so I wanted to take it upon myself to do my own research to better understand this issue from all points of view.

Are you involved in any on-campus clubs?

I am a member of Nova Law Review and NSU Sports & Entertainment Law Society. The skills I learned through Law Review helped me tremendously on this essay, especially when it came to research and citations.

What inspired you to pursue entertainment law, and what’s your dream role after graduation?Since I have always been very passionate about music and art, I knew I would incorporate these aspects into my professional career in some capacity. Entertainment law perfectly combines this passion with my interest in business and the law. Any role that involves supporting artists and creators, I would consider a dream role of mine.