The Grammys have always been something I look forward to. I was particularly interested in watching this year because two of my favorite artists, Olivia Rodgrio and Billie Eilish, had multiple nominations. After watching this year’s awards, I have some thoughts.
First off, if you didn’t know, there are so many artists that have been around for years and even decades that have never received a single Grammy award. Some of these artists that haven’t won have even had the privilege of performing at the Super Bowl halftime show over the years. Can you imagine performing at a Super Bowl Halftime show and having never received a Grammy? Artists like Snoop Dogg, Katy Perry, and Jennifer Lopez all have had multiple nominations but never took home the infamous award. This just goes to show that winning a Grammy is the hardest award an artist can receive. And yet, young artists like Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodgrio have multiple.
For those who did not watch, the Album of the Year award was given to Jon Batiste’s “We Are” album. The album went up against Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Doja Cat, Billie Eilish, H.E.R., Lil Nas X, Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift and Kanye West. After hearing this award given to Jon Batiste, sure I was upset that neither one of my favorite artists received it, but it was refreshing to know that not the usual nominee was chosen.
I was pleased to see that the 19-year-old Olivia Rodgrio received Best New Artist. She also performed her breakthrough song, “Driver’s License” which also won her Best Pop Solo Performance. She has grown such confidence onstage, and it is a privilege to watch these artists push themselves and break barriers all at such young ages. Rodgrio defeated Billie Eilish in the category of Best Pop Vocal Album which was a big shock to me. Billie Eilish, 20, unfortunately didn’t take home any Grammys this year, but she already has racked up seven wins from her When We all Fall Asleep Where Do We Go album in 2019. Eilish also had an amazing performance performing her hit song from her latest album singing “Happier than Ever” alongside her brother Finneas who was nominated for Best New Artist. Even though Eilish took home no Grammys, she was supportive of her fellow nominees and cheered them out as they went up to receive their awards. I would love to see a collaboration between Eilish and Rodrgio in the future, but only time will tell.
Overall, there were so many amazing performances and great music was appreciated. One thing I wish the Grammys had a category for would be something along the lines of a best throwback categories like album, artist, record, etc to give credit to those artists that are still constantly played today. I will continue to watch the Grammys and can’t wait to see what next year has in store!
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