THE WAVYS
The industry has gatekeepers.
We brought boltcutters.
The mainstream music machine wasn't built for everyone; it filters artists out by design, based on who they know, what they look like, and who pays the bills. The messed up part? We think, if the industry got to meet these artists, they’d really like them. That’s why The Wavys exists: to cut the locks, and inspire others to ride that wave.
For 5 years, we’ve built bridges, championing the women, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and Disabled artists our industry often never gets to meet. We've influenced accessibility standards at the GRAMMYs, earned the Clinton Global Initiative's Commitment to Action Award, and maintained ongoing support from the NYC Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment—not bad for an org that started because the data on industry exclusion made us too mad to sit still. Our annual ceremony, The Wavy Awards, spotlights music that deserves to be heard around the world.
But artists can’t eat awards. That’s why we build career-launching ramps for independent talent, like our new Ambassador Program, which empowers artists to design their own rise.
We have the recognition. We have the partners. We have the momentum.
Now, we need the fuel.
Your contribution powers:
Artist promotion for musicians who can't buy visibility.
Year-round programming: workshops, mentorship, industry access.
An independent awards ceremony whose results are never controlled by corporations.
Real financial access: grants, scholarships, and travel stipends for nominees who can't afford to be in the room where it happens.
Radical accessibility: new technology and collaborators to remove barriers-to-entry, benefit, contribution, and participation.
Production that rivals the majors: set design, lighting, AV, and more—a stage for independent artists that demands attention.
Volume & visibility: production of Wavy Music News and other marketing amplifying artists beyond their echo chambers.
We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit. You get the tax deduction, and the industry gets what they deserve: more good music.
The Wavys Inc
is a Charitable Organization
EIN: 87-3537632
Build a Wavy World
with us.
We're a 501(c)(3) nonprofit championing marginalized artists — and we're expanding into something much bigger: a coalition of people, brands, and organizations rolling out a new world. One that values art, connection, sustainability, and everyone thriving together.
This isn't about saving us. It's about joining us.
The old systems aren't working.
We're building what's next.
For over five years, The Wavys has championed marginalized artists through our annual award ceremony — using crowdsourced, mutual-aid models instead of traditional record label gatekeeping.
Now we're expanding. Wavy Certified is our newly trademarked program that brings the same values to organizations across food, health, transportation, media, and care — every system that shapes daily life.
We're building a coalition of people who believe in a consciously evolving humanity. And we need members to build it with us.
Pick your wavelength.
Every contribution is tax-deductible and goes directly into building the Wavy World. Whether you're an artist, a parent, a patron, or just someone who wants a better world — there's a seat for you.
Three pillars. Real work.
Emerging Artist Support
Our annual awards ceremony, artist fellowships, and mutual-aid distribution for marginalized creators who don't have label backing.
Wavy Certified Launch
Building the certification program, digital badges, physical decals, and coalition infrastructure for aligned organizations.
Wavy World Tour
Our traveling concert-train project partnering with passenger rail — the next chapter of the Trainsforming America documentary universe.
Anyone who wants a wavier world.
We champion marginalized artists — but Wavy membership isn't limited to artists. It's for anyone who believes the future should look different from what we've got.
The roadmap.
The Wavys Begin
Launched as a 501(c)(3) emerging artists award ceremony championing marginalized musicians through mutual-aid models.
Wavy Certified Trademarked
After 1.5 years of work, our certification program for likeminded organizations is officially trademarked — opening the door to a full coalition.
Wavy World Tour in Development
Partnering with passenger rail, artists, and cultural organizations to build a traveling experience. The documentary, Trainsforming America, expands.
100+ Wavy Certified Partners
Reaching 100 founding members, 20+ certified organizations, and launching the tour nationally. Plus: international sequel Trainsforming the World development.
Hi, I'm Rebecca.
I'm a documentary filmmaker and the founder of The Wavys. For over five years, I've run this nonprofit out of love for artists who don't fit the industry mold — and honestly, I've been terrible at asking for support.
That ends now. The world feels urgent. The vision is ready. The trademark is official. And I'd rather ask 1,000 people for a little than a handful for everything.
If this resonates, I'd love to have you on board.
Build a Wavy World with us.
Become a supporter today. Every contribution is tax-deductible and goes directly into championing marginalized artists and building the coalition.
All contributions are fully tax-deductible. EIN available on request. Thrive and let thrive.