A file photo of the GRAMMY Awards plague
Some Ghanaian musicians are setting their sights on the world’s most prestigious music stage, GRAMMY Awards.
On October 1, 2025, Shatta Wale and Epixode disclosed that they have submitted their works, Street Crown and Chobio respectively, for consideration in the “Best African Music Performance” category at the 68th GRAMMY Awards.
But beyond the excitement, many fans wonder, what does it really mean to submit for GRAMMY consideration?
This article breaks down how the process works, based on information from the Recording Academy’s official guidelines.
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The First Step: The online entry process
Every year, the Recording Academy, the organization behind the GRAMMY Awards, opens what’s called the Online Entry Process. This is the first and most crucial step for anyone hoping to have their music considered.
During this period, registered Recording Academy members and approved media companies can upload eligible songs, albums, or videos for GRAMMY consideration.
According to the Academy, they can receive over 20,000 entries in a single season, all of which are reviewed manually by its Awards staff.
The review process makes sure every submission follows the rules, that the music was released within the eligible period and is available on approved streaming or distribution platforms.
Who can make a submission?
Not just anyone can submit to the GRAMMYs. The Recording Academy allows only members (Voting or Professional) and registered media companies to make submissions.
A media company is defined as a legitimate business entity that creates, aggregates, or promotes audio or video content for commercial purposes, and must have verifiable products in US commercial distribution.
For independent or unsigned artistes, the process is slightly more involved. They must become Recording Academy members themselves or have a member submit on their behalf.
Membership is not automatic; artistes must apply, meet specific professional criteria, and be accepted. Once approved, they pay an annual membership fee to maintain their status.
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What happens after submission?
After all entries are received and approved, the process moves to the voting stage. This is where members of the Recording Academy, made up of music professionals, decide which works move forward.
The first round of voting determines who gets nominated in each category, while the final round decides who ultimately wins a GRAMMY.
Why it matters for Ghanaian artistes
Ghanaian artistes such as Shatta Wale and Epixode, submitting their works for the 68th GRAMMY Awards goes beyond ticking a box.
It is a move that puts their music in front of international industry players and fellow musicians. It is a chance to gain global recognition.
A submission does not automatically mean a nomination, but it is the first step toward being part of one of music’s most respected awards.
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AK/EB
