Hey, Oscars. The Grammys has a host.
Alicia Keys has been named the host of the 61st Grammy Awards ceremony. Keys is in the elite class of multi-winning Grammy artists, having 15 gramophone-shaped statuettes to her name.
“A dynamic artist with the rare combination of groundbreaking talent and passion for her craft, Alicia Keys is the perfect choice as host for our show,” noted Neil Portnow, President/CEO of the Recording Academy, via a press release. “Throughout her exciting career, I have watched her become a powerful force within the music industry and beyond. As an artist who speaks to the power of music, we are thrilled to have her on board for what’s sure to be an unforgettable Grammy Awards.”
This will be Keys’ first time working as the master of ceremonies for music’s biggest night.
“Alicia is one of those rare artists who meld true musical genius with heartfelt emotional lyrics to create a unique approach to everything she does. We have no doubt that she’ll bring all of that as she guides millions of Grammy viewers through what we believe will be a very special show in February,” said Grammy Awards Executive Producer Ken Ehrlich.
Keys shared her real-time reaction to the news on YouTube, including when she first told her mom, her hubby Swizz Beatz, and getting prepped for the biggest gig in music.
“I know what it feels like to be on that stage, and I’m going to bring that vibe and energy,” Keys said. “I’m so excited to be the master of ceremonies on the biggest night in music and celebrate the creativity, power and, magic. I’m especially excited for all the incredible women nominated this year! It’s going ‘UP’ on February 10!”
The 61st Grammy Awards will take place February 10, 2019, airing live on CBS at 5 p.m. PT. / 8 p.m. ET. Looking forward to it. I have one question, though: Is Alicia going to do her infamous Prince tribute scream into the gramophone or nah?
DISCUSSION
What happened to habitual lip-licker, LL Cool J? Did the Grammy folks not meet his demands for Chap-Stick and/or Kangols?