As music’s biggest night unfolded in Los Angeles, California, Samford University junior Via Vicary found herself not just watching the 2026 GRAMMY Awards—but walking among the artists, songwriters and producers she has long admired. The Commercial Music major gained rare behind-the-scenes access to some of the industry’s most exclusive events through Samford’s alumni and professional networks, turning a student’s dream into a front-row reality.
Vicary’s GRAMMY experience included attending a tribute to Neil Young at the historic Troubadour, Clive Davis’ pre-GRAMMY gala, the GRAMMY Awards ceremony and a post-GRAMMYs breakfast attended by music industry professionals from across the country. Samford alumnus Steve Moore ’76, a Huntsville-based finance professional with long-standing connections to artists through his work, invited her to attend, opening the door to a whirlwind weekend few undergraduate students experience.
“The GRAMMYs weekend exceeded every expectation,” Vicary said. “It was an absolute honor to spend three full days alongside global artists, songwriters and producers.”
She said the atmosphere was surprisingly warm and personal, noting that even the industry’s biggest names mingled naturally and treated each other with kindness.
“It was surreal walking by artists I’ve admired for years,” she said, “but everyone was so genuine. Seeing them in such close, personal settings reminded me of their humanity, which made my own aspirations feel far more attainable,” Vicary added. “The people I met while networking treated me as a fellow professional artist.”
Throughout the weekend, Vicary found herself in unexpected, once-in-a-lifetime moments. During the pre-GRAMMYs ceremony, she was seated next to artist Zach Top when he won his GRAMMY.
“He sprung from his seat and whisked past me so he could run down to the stage,” she said.
She later met Laufey and Noah Kahan, describing them as approachable and kind. One of the most impactful moments for Vicary was music legend Cher’s special appearance to accept the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award. As she wrapped up her speech, Cher offered advice to every artist in the room.
“What really stuck with me was, ‘Live it, be it, and if it’s not happening now, it will happen soon,’” Vicary said. “Her message provided a lot of encouragement and hope.”
Vicary credits Samford’s Commercial Music program with preparing her to engage in industry conversations with confidence. At a private luncheon with music professionals, she used what she learned from her Global Music and Music Industry courses.
“These classes equipped me to contribute meaningfully to conversations,” she said. “Throughout the entire experience, I felt well-prepared and thankful that my hard work in Samford music classes was paying off.”
Samford’s Commercial Music program emphasizes experiential learning alongside musical and technical training to prepare students for careers in the rapidly evolving music industry.The Wall Street Journal ranks Samford #7 in the nation for student learning opportunities, and experiences like Vicary’s weekend at the GRAMMYs reflect that focus on pairing classroom instruction with real-world access and professional engagement.
“This experience reflects the heart of what we aim to offer students in Commercial Music—direct exposure to the real-world music industry through trusted relationships and mentorship,” said Steven Potaczek, associate professor of Commercial Music. “Via was able to observe how the industry operates at its highest level and begin building connections that will meaningfully shape her professional future.”
For Vicary, the weekend also served as a reminder of what is possible—and what it takes to get there.
“This experience reminded me that now is the moment to take yourself seriously,” she said. “Your career has already begun, so pursue your dreams with confidence. Believe in yourself—and one day, you could be winning a GRAMMY alongside the artists who inspire you.”
