Rushed hands of paparazzi adjust the aperture of their cameras, preparing to capture the money-making photos of the many artists on the Grammys’ red carpet. Journalists hastily go over their transcripts, eager for interviewees; hosts run through their comedy lines; and artists smile, mindful of what the night will bring. Whether they will be back on this carpet with a Grammy in hand or still leave the night empty-handed but not empty-minded, the night will be full of bittersweet memories.
On February 1, the music industry’s biggest night, the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, premiered on the Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS). The ceremony took place at the Crypto Arena in Los Angeles, where many prominent figures attended. From singers, songwriters, music producers, and actors, they all dressed up to be properly recognized for their vocals, engineering, and creativity. Fortunately, the competition this year made every nomination worthy of such an honor, hence the difficulty of deciding on just one artist. This year made history in a range of respective categories for the music industry.
The ceremony commenced with singers Bruno Mars and Rosé performing their hit song “APT,” which was nominated for Record of the Year. This was a successful way to get the crowd up and ready for many more brilliant performances and ease the adrenaline of the unknown. After the performance, host Trevor Noah was introduced. He praised many prominent figures, acknowledging their nominations and achievements. Then, the ceremony proceeded with singer Sabrina Carpenter performing her latest pop single, “Manchild,” and a surplus of Best New Artist Nominees performing back-to-back.
Chappell Roan, who had won last year, announced Best New Artist. The award was given to Olivia Dean, making history by adhering to the nine-year streak in which a woman has won in this category.
“I was proud of Alex Warren’s performance during his debut of ‘Ordinary.’ I wish that his in-ear pack had been able to get fixed; he looked immensely disappointed that things didn’t go to plan. I felt bad for not getting to show off his absolute best performance, but I commend him for being able to adjust on the fly and still have a great outing,” Bryson Lui (11) said.
Harry Styles announced the award to Puerto Rican rapper and singer Bad Bunny and his album, “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” for album of the year, becoming the first Spanish-language album to win in this category. This was a tremendous honor for the culture of Puerto Rico. Bad Bunny dedicated his Grammy to those who had to leave their hometown to chase their dream, and to those personally affected by the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Not only did he make such a dedication, but Dean and singer Billie Eilish did as well.
“I was rooting for Sabrina Carpenter because of how incredible her music video for ‘Manchild’ was. I was also sad to see that it did not get a Grammy. How could that music video not win?” Emma Dea (11) said.
The Recording Academy recognized rapper Kendrick Lamar’s latest album, “GNX,” for Rap Album of the Year, announced by notable rappers Doechii and Queen Latifah, ultimately making him the most-awarded rapper in Grammy history. Not only that, his single “luther,” which featured SZA, won Record of the Year, preserving a two-year streak for Lamar in this category. Many of his fans are eager to see if the streak will continue or what Lamar is mixing up next in the studio.
Ultimately, the Grammys were not only a night of music but a night that made history in the art of songwriting and in the art of protesting. It was a night of many firsts and validation for a variety of artists and genres of albums, from electric pop to jazz. Additionally, it was a night of unforgettable fashion and memorable performances, especially of those who honored Ozzy Osbourne, D’Angelo, and Roberta Flack.
“I like watching the Grammys to see interviews, the dresses they wear, and because I just love music and I think it is really nice to see a night where it was appreciated,” Jasmine Aksoy (9) said.
