Unstoppable Spirit: Recording Academy CEO Explains Why the Grammys Continued Amid LA Tragedy

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Unstoppable Spirit: Recording Academy CEO Explains Why the Grammys Continued Amid LA Tragedy

A few weeks ago, Los Angeles faced a disaster just as the Grammy Awards preparations began. Fires swept through the area, displacing thousands of residents and devastating homes across Southern California.

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Just days before the fires, Hollywood was buzzing with excitement for the Golden Globes. But as the devastation unfolded, many called for the cancellation of upcoming events like the Grammys and the SAG Awards.

However, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. and Grammy Awards producer Ben Winston decided that the show must go on. They believed it was important to use the platform to raise awareness and support for those affected.

“We have the world’s biggest stars, and we can draw attention to what’s happened,” Winston shared in an interview. It’s about honoring our first responders and highlighting local businesses in need.

Mason Jr. added a personal touch, revealing that members of the music community have lost their homes and instruments. “One friend lost his entire studio,” he noted, emphasizing the need to raise funds to help these individuals.

As they prepared inside the Crypto.com Arena, Mason Jr. and Winston discussed the challenge of setting the right tone for the ceremony. Mason Jr. reminded everyone that while the Grammys are significant, they aren’t the most crucial thing in light of the recent tragedies.

With Trevor Noah returning as host, they felt confident that the show would celebrate both music and community resilience. “The sense of community here is stronger than ever,” Winston remarked, observing how neighbors have come together during this difficult time.

“Music has the power to heal,” Mason Jr. claimed. The Grammy broadcast will incorporate elements honoring first responders and raising funds for those in need.

“We’ll celebrate musical excellence and weave in stories of heroes,” he added. The Recording Academy has already provided over $4 million in emergency aid to those impacted by the fires.

Continuing with the Grammys not only helps raise awareness but also keeps people employed. Winston highlighted that around 6,500 individuals from various trades are involved in putting on the show, making it crucial for many livelihoods.

The format of the show will remain true to its roots. It won’t become a full telethon, but there will be moments to recognize the ongoing challenges. Notable performances, like those from Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga, have also been announced.

This year’s nominations feature stars like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Kendrick Lamar, promising a night filled with talent.

Beyoncé leads the nominations, marking her as the most nominated artist ever. With 11 nominations for her album “Cowboy Carter,” the question remains: will this finally be her year for Album of the Year?

With a hint of sarcasm, Mason Jr. joked about the odds, saying, “I feel like she’s got a one in eight chance of winning that thing. I’m serious!”

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