Concord Extends Five-Year Scholarship Commitment to Stax Music Academy, Supporting 100 Students

In a bold move that keeps the soul of Memphis alive, Concord, the independent powerhouse behind Stax Records, has announced that it will extend its five‑year scholarship program at Stax Music Academy (SMA) through the 2026‑2027 academic year. The extension follows a partnership that began in 2021, when Concord pledged $1 million over five years to fund tuition for students in under‑resourced communities across Memphis.

Since its launch, the program has awarded 100 scholarships, covering full tuition for at least 20 SMA students each year. By January 2026, total contributions had surpassed $1.3 million, exceeding the original pledge. Scholarships are awarded on a need‑based basis and bear the names of legendary Stax artists, adding a touch of history to each award.

SMA sits on the historic Stax Records campus and offers after‑school and summer programs for grades 6‑12. The academy’s track record is impressive: a 100 % college acceptance rate and a 2020 cohort in which 67 % earned music scholarships. Alumni have gone on to collaborate with major artists, tour, and pursue careers in healthcare and education, proving the program’s reach beyond the music world. The academy’s curriculum blends rigorous instrumental training with songwriting, production, and business lessons, preparing students for the multifaceted demands of modern music careers.

One of the program’s standout recipients is Kiyah Watson, a senior vocalist who graduated from SMA. Watson received a Concord‑funded scholarship during her senior year and is set to begin college this fall as a music‑education major. “The scholarship enabled me to focus on my studies and pursue my goal of giving back to future generations of music students,” she said.

Concord’s CEO, Bob Valentine, said the partnership “has opened doors for our students that would not have been possible otherwise.” He added that the five‑year milestone is “deeply meaningful to all of us at Concord” and that the company is proud to continue building on the vision set in motion by Board Chairman Steve Smith. Deanie Parker, founding CEO of the Soulsville Foundation and former Stax employee, echoed that sentiment: “Concord’s support has opened doors for our students that would not have been possible otherwise.” She added, “Their investment is not just financial; it’s personal, consistent, and rooted in belief.”

Beyond financial aid, the scholarship program connects students with industry professionals. Concord staff, artists, and songwriters—including Noah Goldstein and Varren Wade—have led online masterclasses and in‑person workshops. These interactions provide mentorship and performance opportunities that are rare for students in the region, helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the music industry. These sessions also foster a sense of community and professional accountability among the students.

Extending the program into 2027 strengthens the long‑standing relationship between Concord and SMA and reinforces the broader Stax Records legacy. The partnership is part of Concord’s broader strategy to support music education and talent development in communities that historically have had limited access to industry resources. SMA’s success is also tied to the Soulsville Foundation, which operates the academy, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and the Soulsville Charter School on the same campus. The partnership also supports the Soulsville Charter School’s music curriculum, ensuring a cohesive educational ecosystem.

Concord’s support also includes funding for performance venues, instrument purchases, and curriculum development, ensuring SMA remains a premier after‑school music program in Memphis. The measurable impact of the partnership is clear: since the program’s launch, 100 students have received full tuition support, and SMA’s college acceptance rate remains at 100 %. Alumni continue to contribute to the music industry and other professional fields, demonstrating the program’s long‑term benefits. Industry analysts note that such investments align with a growing trend toward community‑based talent development.

By extending its commitment, Concord signals its ongoing dedication to fostering musical talent and preserving the cultural heritage associated with Stax Records. The extended scholarship program will continue to fund tuition for SMA students through the 2026‑2027 academic year, with additional resources earmarked for mentorship and industry exposure. The partnership remains a model for how independent music companies can support local music education initiatives.