This year’s Grammys was a lot different than that of previous years. The pandemic affected the usual audience in attendance as well as the setup. Unlike many awards shows this year, the Grammys weren’t virtual. It was held in a much more intimate space. However, the pandemic isn’t the real reason why everyone is talking about the Grammys this year. Prior to the 2021 Grammys, there was a lot of talk surrounding the Recording Academy’s relationship with systematic oppression and/ or racism. Many talented black artists felt like they were being gypped. And that the Grammys was rigged. Many are saying that last night’s award show was in response to that. And while some were happy to see this change, others not so much. But here are our thoughts.
Our Thoughts/ Opinion
As far as the performances go, I thought this year’s show was by far the most entertaining. I feel like the previous Grammys weren’t diverse enough to entertain everyone. The previous shows consisted of watered-down performances where the artists give what they may call a ‘classy grammy performance’ rather than expressing their true artistry. Past shows also didn’t really reflect the current state of music across all genres. The awards, nominations, and performances of previous Grammys used to feel out of touch and exclusive. However, let’s dig a little deeper into analyzing the differences of this year’s show.
I understand why the 2021 Grammys may upset white people for it may feel like the show isn’t theirs anymore. We just come and take over everything. (sarcasm intended) I also understand why some black people are confused. In the history of the Grammys, it’s never been this black. So is this a pity show thrown for black people? Do you really see the impact we have on music or are you just trying to save your ass? It’s complicated.
I do believe the academy voters are biased and that they should work on the curation of the grammies and the awards as a whole. This way it never seems rigged towards one way or the other. Many artists receive awards that often cross over into the same body of work leaving those that are deserving such as Doja Cat and many more with nothing. Better curation will allow iconic artists like Nicki Minaj to never go ‘grammyless’. But regardless of what people feel, I think all the winners and nominees last night were very deserving. Congratulations to all of them!
Favorite Performances
1. Cardi B & Megan Thee Stallion, “Up” & “WAP” X Megan Thee Stallion, “Body” & “Savage”
I don’t care what anyone has to say. The whole performance beginning to end was pure entertainment! It’s crazy that so many people consider this overly sexual yet Madonna’s kiss is ‘iconic’. What’s the real problem here? The cleanliness of Megan performance in conjunction with Cardri’s visuals was magnificent!
2. Lil Baby, “The Bigger Picture”
It’s important that the message be clear when performing about such topics. And Lil baby did just that! He told us the story. Everything from the acting to the dancing was cohesive. He kept up with the set and sounded great! I’m so happy with the way he’s using his platform to enact change.
3. Doja Cat, “Say So”
Doja Cat never disappoints! Her performances are always top tier. I’m always excited to see what she does next. She may be new to this but sis is definitely true to this. I can only imagine the joy of watching her live.
4. Dua Lipa & DaBaby, “Levitating” & “Don’t Start Now”
I’ve been a fan of Dua Lipa. But some of her performances are hit or miss for me. However, this one wasn’t! Sis, did not come to play. I love all the outfit changes. I also enjoyed how she worked the stage. You can tell she didn’t hold back this time.
5. DaBaby & Roddy Ricch, “Rockstar”
I always appreciate DaBaby & Roddy Rich’s performance to Rockstar. He always finds a way to refresh it. This performance was pretty memorable. I like that he used the unconventional opera choir, the heavenly violinist and brought out the R&B great Anthony Hamilton.
6. Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak), “Leave the Door Open”
Those vocals though! This performance just showcased how talented Bruno and Anderson.Paak are! Everything was cool, calm. & collected! I could watch them perform all day long. Plus, they have amazing chemistry
7. Billie Eilish, “Everything I Wanted”
I’m probably biased but Billy does no wrong in my eyes. She delivers such an authentic and soulful performance every time.
8. Harry Styles, “Watermelon Sugar”
The band backing Harry up was everything. I also enjoyed his vibe. He was grooving all around the stage.
9. Roddy Ricch, “Heartless” & “Rockstar”
Roddy is so adorbs’. His performance was light and sweet.
10. Post Malone, “Hollywood’s Bleeding”
I like how Post Malone stays true to himself. He doesn’t need all the extra gimmicks. He sounded great!
Special Performances
- Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak, “Long Tall Sally” & “Good Golly”
- Mickey Guyton, “Black Like Me”
Favorite Looks
- Megan Thee Stallion stunning in her bright Orange dress
- Dua lipa went for pretty & sexy @Versace
- Billie Eilish fly in crystal-embellished Suit
- Beyoncé effortlessly in @Schiaparelli
- Harry styles a vibe in @gucci
- Noah Cyrus giving Avant-garde realness
- Chloe Bailey popping in @LouisVuitton
- Dababy stylin’ & proflin’
- Doja Cat making a statement in @Roberto_Cavalli x @faustopuglisi
- Lizzo went vintage in @bonniechoalds