After being rescheduled earlier this year because of the rise in COVID-19 cases, the 64th annual Grammy Awards returned last night at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas for music lovers worldwide. Comedian Trevor Noah hosted the event for the second time this year, allowing viewers to laugh off some of the stress from the past year and a half.
From performers such as BTS and Lady Gaga to a tribute for Foo Fighters’ drummer Taylor Hawkins, the ceremony had its fun and serious moments.
Here is what you missed from this year’s Grammy Awards:
Record of the Year:
Winner: “Leave the Door Open” by Silk Sonic
Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak are by far one of the best duos to come out of the music industry within the last year, and obviously, it’s not a shock that they won Record of the Year. “Leave the Door Open” was the perfect song from 2021, persuading listeners everywhere to do just as the title says, especially when you find the person for you.
Album of the Year:
Winner: WE ARE by Jon Batiste
Receiving 11 Grammy nominations this year, Batiste was the underdog in this tough category, especially with albums like Taylor Swift’s evermore and Lil Nas X’s MONTERO in the ranks. Yet, the singer surprised audiences everywhere with his win. Integrating an autobiographical stance on race and identity, this album was extraordinary in its essence, with Batiste’s vocals and producing skills at their peak.
Song of the Year:
Winner: “Leave the Door Open” by Silk Sonic
Once again, with the help of songwriters D’Mile and Brody Brown, the duo won one of the most important categories of the night for their smash-hit single “Leave the Door Open.” Bringing back a '70s-like sound to the pop genre, the two singers caught the attention of all music listeners with their catchy back-and-forth verses and whimsical chorus. Overall, it’s no surprise that the two won for their swagger and flirtatious music.
Best New Artist:
Winner: Olivia Rodrigo
The 19-year-old was a shoo-in for this award after releasing one of the most talked-about albums of 2021, her first debut SOUR. After rising to the top of various music charts for her noteworthy tracks such as “driver’s license,” “good 4 u” and “deja vu,” it’s obvious that Rodrigo knows how to create songs that are relatable and memorable for music listeners of all ages.
Best Pop Vocal Album:
Winner: SOUR by Olivia Rodrigo
Rodrigo won yet again for Best Pop Vocal Album after winning Song of the Year. Competing against major artists like Doja Cat and Billie Eilish, the young singer took hold of the category after rave reviews of her debut album that completely consumed the pop radio scene for months on end. SOUR’s impact surely wasn’t forgotten last night, exemplifying the talent Rodrigo holds as a singer.
Best Rap Album:
Winner: CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST by Tyler, The Creator
With one Grammy win already under his belt from 2020, the rapper won again last night for his critically-acclaimed album CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST. By stretching his range into new rap and R&B sounds, Tyler, The Creator clearly deserved this award. His win is proof that challenging yourself as a musician surely pays off.
Best Alternative Music Album:
Winner: Daddy’s Home by St. Vincent
After competing in a tough category against artists like Halsey and Japanese Breakfast, St. Vincent was able to reign supreme. Making this her third Grammy win, the singer brought 1980s glam to the forefront of alternative music, not afraid to dive into topics such as mother-daughter dynamics, fathers and prison. St. Vincent’s playful and witty use of these themes made her prone to noteworthy praise throughout this year, proving she’s an artist to take seriously.
