Motown Records has officially announced the launch of the New Legends Internship Program, a transformative initiative aimed at creating meaningful career pathways for students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). By bridging the gap between academic talent and the professional music landscape, the program seeks to foster the next generation of industry leaders.
The inaugural cohort is currently engaged in a 10-week immersive experience, running from June 8 through August 14. During this period, participants are gaining hands-on exposure to critical sectors of the business, including Marketing, Creative, Digital, and A&R. The program was strategically introduced during Black Music Month to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in the evolution of the music industry.
“Motown has always been committed to discovering and developing talent that shapes culture,” said Dante Smith, SVP Marketing & Head of Motown Digital at Motown Records. “With New Legends, we’re extending that legacy beyond artists and into the future executives, creatives, marketers and innovators who will help define the next era of the music industry.”
The current cohort features students from prominent institutions, including Howard University, Morgan State University, North Carolina A&T State University, and Spelman College. Throughout the summer, these students are working directly alongside Motown teams, contributing to active projects, and receiving mentorship from seasoned industry professionals. This structure ensures that participants not only gain technical skills but also build the professional relationships necessary for long-term success in the competitive music business.
