As music's top awards return to Los Angeles, Beyoncé leads headlines with her chance at Album of the Year amidst fierce competition.
It's a baffling irony that the culture-shifting Beyoncé has won more Grammys than anyone, ever, but has yet to attain the holy grail of winning Album of the Year. At Sunday's 67th edition of music's top awards ceremony, the megastar has yet another chance to take home the prize. However, in a packed field of no-skips albums, who will ultimately win the night's top trophies is anyone's guess.
Is it finally Beyoncé's year?
The Grammys have long faced criticism for being too white and too male. In recent years, the Recording Academy, which organizes the show, has worked to address this by diversifying its voting membership. Progress has been visible: the past few galas have been historic for women, particularly in all-genre categories and fields like rock where they were once sidelined.
Yet, a stark truth persists: a Black woman has not won Album of the Year in this century. Lauryn Hill was the last to achieve this in 1999, preceded by Whitney Houston in 1994 and Natalie Cole in 1992. With her ambitious Cowboy Carter, which celebrates Black artists' contributions to country music, Beyoncé is challenging voters to recognize her artistry. Regardless of the outcome, Beyoncé is certain to dominate headlines.
Wildfire relief for Los Angeles
This year's ceremony takes place weeks after devastating wildfires ravaged Los Angeles, deeply affecting its music industry. Despite the tragedies, the Recording Academy is moving forward, emphasizing philanthropic efforts for wildfire relief. MusiCares, the Academy's philanthropic arm, has already distributed millions in aid and will host its annual pre-Grammy fundraising gala—without the red carpet.
Pop’s breakouts and heavyweights
This year belongs to pop, with Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, and Charli XCX poised for major wins. Roan and Carpenter, favorites for best record, best song, and best new artist, will compete with Grammy darling Billie Eilish. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift could set a record by winning her fifth Album of the Year, while finally ending her streak of losses in the Song of the Year category.
A Beatles win?
The Beatles, despite their breakup over 50 years ago, are contenders for Record of the Year with Now and Then. The track leveraged AI to isolate John Lennon’s vocals and blend them with contributions from Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, and the late George Harrison. While the AI used was not generative, the nomination highlights evolving recording practices. A win would mark The Beatles' first Grammy for this prize.
Quincy Jones tribute
The ceremony will also honor Quincy Jones, who passed away at 91 in November. With 28 career Grammys, Jones’ contributions to music, from jazz to pop, are legendary. The Recording Academy is set to pay tribute to his unparalleled influence on American music.
With AFP
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