Concord and Stax Music Academy Mark Five Years of Partnership, Investing Over 1.3 Million Dollars in Music Education

As Kiyah Watson prepares to begin college this fall as a music education major, she represents the impact of a partnership that has expanded educational opportunities for many young musicians in Memphis. A graduate of Stax Music Academy, Watson received a Concord-funded scholarship that helped her continue her studies during her senior year and pursue her goal of one day giving back to future generations of music students. Her story is one of many made possible through the leading independent music company's longstanding commitment to Stax Music Academy.

In 2021, Concord, its staff, and board made a five-year financial commitment to Stax Music Academy (SMA), a cornerstone of cultural and musical legacy in Memphis and the broader music community. Concord, which owns Stax Records, pledged 1 million dollars over five years to provide scholarships and financial support to students in under-resourced communities. As of January 2026, that pledge has been exceeded with contributions totaling more than $1.3 million, reflecting Concord's investment in SMA, its students, and its mission.

Over the course of the partnership, Concord has funded 100 scholarships for SMA students, expanding access to world-class music education, mentorship, and performance opportunities. A defining measure of the Academy's success is its 100% college acceptance rate, underscoring its track record of preparing students to thrive both academically and professionally. The partnership has also connected students with industry professionals, as Concord staff, artists, and songwriters including Noah Goldstein and Varren Wade have regularly participated in online masterclasses and in-person workshops.

Kiyah Watson's story is just one of many that illustrates the lasting impact of Concord's investment in Stax Music Academy. Alumni have gone on to work across the music industry, and on tours with major artists, while others have built rewarding careers in fields such as healthcare and education.

"Reaching this five-year milestone with Stax Music Academy is deeply meaningful to all of us at Concord," said Bob Valentine, CEO of Concord. "This commitment began under the leadership of Concord's Board Chairman Steve Smith, and we are proud to continue building on the vision he set in motion to invest in the next generation of artists and creatives. As we look ahead, we have pledged an additional year of support because we believe strongly in the Academy's mission and in the students who bring it to life. These students represent the future of music, and supporting their education and creativity is one of the most important commitments we can make."

"Concord's support has opened doors for our students that would not have been possible otherwise," said Deanie Parker, Founding CEO of the Soulsville Foundation and former Stax Records artist, songwriter, and employee. "Their investment is not just financial; it's personal, consistent, and rooted in belief. Our 100% college acceptance rate and the success of students like Kiyah show what happens when young people are given the resources and encouragement they deserve."

To continue this momentum, Concord has pledged to donate beyond the original five-year commitment going into 2027. This extension strengthens the long-standing relationship not only between Concord and SMA, but also the broader Stax Records legacy.