The Grammys returned to relative normalcy this year following 2021’s COVID-safe event held on a random rooftop in downtown Los Angeles. But this year’s ceremony, once again hosted by The Daily Show’s Trevor Noah was originally scheduled for February, music’s biggest night was forced to postpone due to the Omicron. They also had to change the locale, taking the show to Las Vegas. The annual 64th Grammys was on point with top performances by new emerging talent.
Arooj Aftab won a Grammy. It is so heartening to watch local talent not only recognized but also appreciated on an international forum. Pakistani singer, composer, and producer Arooj Aftab won a Grammy for the Best Global music performance. Based in Brooklyn she dabbles in different styles of music including jazz and neo-Sufi she is the first Pakistani artist to win a Grammy award.
Amazing performances by artists were seen this year! Whether it was the stunning moves by BTS with their heist-themed Butter performance, the sweet soulful performance by Olivia Rodrigo or the jaw-dropping performance of Lil Nas X draped in sparkles!
Billie Eilish dazzled like a rock star alongside her brother Phineas and Lady Gaga stole the show with her tribute to Tony Bennett making the audience emotional. Silk Sonic gave an impactful live performance along with winning the Song and Record of the Year, marking repeat wins for Bruno Mars as well.
This year was also considered to have better fashion and styling than before. Designers and stylists used this worldwide pandemic to get creative with their fashion and also let the old styles make their comeback. These are a few fresh looks that are unique and artistic at the same time giving the Grammy’s a more glamorous touch.
However, there’s no show without at least a few controversies. Louise C.K won an award for the best comedy album regardless of his terrible past record, showing no remorse whatsoever. Moreover, the Weeknd was reportedly boycotting the Grammys this year after calling the event corrupt and unfair, winning the category for the best melodic rap.
The most surprising guest entry was the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He made his appearance via satellite transmission at the Grammys amid his country’s war with Russia, asking the audience and viewers for support. The short speech was followed by an understated but powerful performance by John Legend, who debuted his new song, “Free,” alongside two Ukrainian artists, singer Mika Newtown and poet Lyuba Yakimchuk, the latter of whom fled the country only days earlier.
Overall, the Grammys were a success, especially after the disastrous situation at the Oscars previously that left the viewers with a bad taste and a lot to talk about.