Recording Academy chief Neil Portnow said Thursday the organization is creating a task force to uncover unconscious biases and other barriers that impede women's success in the music industry.
The announcement comes days after Portnow claimed his comments on women needing to "step up" in the music industry were taken out of context. The remarks have been criticized by several prominent musicians, including Sheryl Crow, Katy Perry, India.Arie and Pink.
Portnow says in Thursday's statement that he now understands the pain his "poor choice of words" after Sunday's Grammy Awards has caused. He says while his comments aren't indicative of his beliefs, they do reflect real women's experiences in the industry.
He promised the Recording Academy would put itself "under a microscope and tackle whatever truths are revealed."
"I appreciate that the issue of gender bias needs to be addressed in our industry, and share in the urgency to attack it head on" Portnow said.
Meanwhile, an online petition posted by singer-songwriter Vanessa Carlton calling for Portnow's resignation surpassed its goal of 10,000 signatures. More than 13,000 people had signed the document by Thursday evening.
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More