Blue Hawk Records (BHR) is the student-run record label at Monmouth University, providing an immersive, hands-on experience for students interested in the music industry. Established in 2013, BHR has grown into a dynamic program that allows students to gain firsthand experience in all aspects of operating a record label, from artist branding and record production to marketing strategy and live event management.
Recognized by Billboard magazine as one of the top music business schools in the country, Monmouth University prides itself on fostering a comprehensive learning environment for aspiring music industry professionals. Blue Hawk Records serves as a distinguishing feature of the university, offering students the unique opportunity to work with a real-world label that bridges the gap between classroom learning and professional practice.
Through strategic partnerships with music and technology companies, agencies, industry leaders and partners like Lakehouse Recording Studios in Asbury Park, The Music Business Association, and The GRAMMY Museum, BHR students gain valuable career opportunities and industry connections. The program actively engages students through music industry networking events, conferences, and field trips, equipping them with the skills and experience necessary to succeed in today’s competitive music business landscape.
As part of the Music Industry curriculum at Monmouth University, an Applied Music Industry Class is faced with the challenge of creating a professional studio album from start to finish. This entails an extensive semester-long process that involves holding auditions, pre-production, recording, distribution, marketing, and live event coordination. Over the course of a short fourteen weeks, the class examines all aspects of developing an album and distributing it both physically and online.
We have exciting plans for the future as we grow our label. Join us on our mission as we make a name for Blue Hawk Records.
Monmouth University: a grammy museum affiliate
This partnership provides students, faculty, and staff access to GRAMMY Museum content for educational purposes, curriculum resources, research programs, professional development seminars, collaborative marketing, project-based learning, and unique student internship opportunities.
This connection creates opportunities for students like internships, research programs, employment, and accessibility to talent for events and production.
Meet the E-Board
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AMANDA HAYES
President
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Amani Adelekan
Vice President
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OLIVIA MELFI
Webmaster and Social Media Content Creator
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GINA DIGE
Social Media Manager
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Kylensky Miracle
Treasurer
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Lucas Whitley
Director of Alumni Connections
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Michael Yacullo
Secretary
MUSIC INDUSTRY FACULTY
JOE RAPOLLA
CHAIRMAN OF THE MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY MUSIC DEPARTMENT
Joe Rapolla previously headed the marketing departments at both Universal Music and Warner Music Group. He has directed some of the highest profile strategic initiatives, and worked closely with top talent, such as Madonna, Green Day, Michael Jackson, U2, Bruce Springsteen and Sting.
Rashida Scott-Cruz has been an adjunct professor of the Music Industry program since 2016. Her experience spans over 20 years in a variety of roles in corporate and within higher education including music business, technology & curriculum design. As executive director of the GRAMMY Museum Prudential Center, she launched the Taylor Swift Experience Exhibit and collaborated with the estate of Whitney Houston to develop the brief for the Whitney Exhibit in 2018. She is the co-founder of Monmouth Artists for Diversity and Inclusion (M.A.D.I) and executive producer of Blue Hawks Presents: M.A.D.I Volume One.
rashida SCOTT-cruz
george wurzbach
George Wurzbach is a multi-award winning composer and performer. His songs have been recorded by esteemed artists including Tom Paxton, The Kingston Trio, and David Wilcox, among others. Notably, his collaboration with Paxton was featured on the GRAMMY-nominated album, Comedians and Angels. Following his recognition as a Kerrville New Folk Award winner in 1995, George co-founded the music comedy trio Modern Man, earning accolades such as the BackStage Magazine Bistro Award. He has also composed scores for musicals like Roasting Alice and Twelfth Night, staged at Monmouth University. As a musician, George works in New York as a sideman and session player.
David Tripold has bachelor's and master's degrees in music from Westminster Choir College of Rider University and a PhD in liturgical studies. He is a nationally recognized choir conductor, voice teacher, organist, and liturgical scholar. Additionally, he directs the University's chamber and concert choirs. He has been a church organist and choir director for over 30 years.
DAVID TRIPOLD
jonathan mcelroy
Jonathan McElroy earned his Ph.D. in Music Education at New York University. He earned both his Master of Music in Composition/Arranging, and Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance on trombone and upright/electric bass from William Paterson University. Jonathan is an active performer who subs on Broadway and off-Broadway, leads a sextet, and composes/arranges for a variety of music groups and artists. Such artists include Alfa Garcia, Adam Pascal, Robert Bannon, South Jersey Area Wind Ensemble, and more.
FAQ
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Blue Hawk Records is a student-run record label that operates under the supervision of the Chairman of Monmouth University's Department of Music And Theater, Joe Rapolla.
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Monmouth University students, alumni, and faculty are able to audition with an original song for a chance to be featured on our compilation album that we produce each Fall and Spring semester of every academic year.
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Whether you write original songs, produce tracks, or simply love music, Blue Hawk Records is a club that allows you to explore your passion and draw inspiration from others. We have club meetings every Wednesday in Woods Theatre Room 4 from 3:00 - 4:00 PM and love seeing new faces — come check us out!