2026 GRAMMY® Week Guide
Entering her third year attending GRAMMY Week in Los Angeles, Queer Capita Board Member Meredith Nadeau gives her insights and philosophy for navigating the week. As someone who manages branded events for a living, she brings a professional insight into the “do’s and dont’s” and “bests and worsts”, of GRAMMY Week. Below is her advice and tips on how to approach one of the most overwhelming, but also most exciting, weeks in the music industry.
GRAMMY Week Networking Advice From an Industry Pro
This might sound silly, but the best events… are the least expected.
My very first year attending GRAMMY Week was also my first visit to L.A. proper. So, as one does, I posted to my Instagram “LA for GRAMMY Week!” and reached out to my local friends to try and make the most of it.
I was at a dinner with a college friend in WeHo when I got a text from an old coworker who invited us to a house party for a very prominent producer. Before I knew it, I was surrounded by influencers and artists on the rise.
I won’t name names… but this New Yorker never felt so L.A.
This was not some huge A-list branded event. It was more intimate, and I got to hang with my friends along the way!
The Takeaway: Stay in touch with the people you know, and keep an open mind.
The Worst GRAMMY Week Events (and How to Spot Them Early)
So much buzz! It’s tempting, I know.
A party at a mansion in the hills. An exclusive guest list. A rumored surprise performance. They’re all very enticing. And, sure, if you’re on the confirmed or VIP list, or first name terms with the host, by all means, GO!
If not, you could end up like me…waiting in line for over an hour with coworkers, hangry and jet lagged with no end in sight.
The Takeaway: If your name isn’t on the guest list, the party isn’t for you.
In Los Angeles, a big buzzy party in the hills means traffic, long lines, and missed opportunities elsewhere. If you go all that way and can’t get in, you’ve likely burned your entire night. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
GRAMMY Week Survival Tips (to Keep Your Sanity and REputation)
Bring a jacket. L.A. days are warm, but it drops pretty drastically at night.
Have backup plans that don’t suck. If you can’t get into an event, you’ll be glad you planned ahead.
Go easy on the drinks. First of all, you’re showing your age. Gen-Z barely drinks. More importantly, people will remember what you say to C-suite exec or artist after your third cocktail.
Signal interest early. Ask questions like, “Is that event invite-only?” or “Are you going to that one?” You’d be surprised how often a spot opens up.
Be Authentic. Your eye contact is noticed. Give every connection the attention it deserves.
Keep an Eye out for our Board Members who will be in town
Each year, several members from the board of Queer Capita join ranks with their industry peers during GRAMMY week. Keep an eye out for our friendly faces, and don’t be shy to introduce yourself while out at a party or event.
Remember, if you are lucky enough to attend GRAMMY week for work, you belong there just as much as anyone else. But also, be authentic. Set up meals or meetups with friends and colleagues. Connect with people in a meaningful way, and the doors will open. I’ll see you there!
Meredith Nadeau is a music industry veteran specializing in brand marketing and community partnerships. She has served on the board of Queer Capita for two years, and is based in NYC.
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