Motown Launches HBCU Internship Program to Build the Next Generation of Music Industry Leaders

Motown Records is opening its doors to HBCU students with the launch of its New Legends Internship Program — a 10-week immersive experience designed to create a direct pathway into the music business.

The inaugural cohort kicked off June 8 and runs through Aug. 14, placing students from Howard University, Morgan State, North Carolina A&T and Spelman College inside Motown’s marketing, creative services, digital strategy and A&R departments. Participants work on active projects, learn day-to-day operations and receive mentorship from industry executives.

“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,” said Dante Smith, Motown’s SVP of Marketing and Head of Digital.

Founded in 1959 by Berry Gordy, Motown built its legacy discovering icons like Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. Now the label is applying that same eye for talent to the business side — and betting on HBCU students to lead what comes next.