Every year, when the biggest names in the music industry gather for the Grammys, one of the most distinguished music awards shows there is, it often becomes the topic of many headlines and conversations around the world, and that is no different at Chamblee High School. When discussing the Grammys, conversations can take many forms; some will debate the winners and categories, while others are more impassioned by the speeches and performances.
The music world was abuzz about a history-making album of the year win for Bad Bunny, as many long-time fans had been hoping for this moment.
“Seeing Bad Bunny win the Grammy and his performance were my favorite parts because I have been listening to him for a while, and finally seeing him receive recognition was amazing,” said Josh Lally (‘29).
The sense of pride fans had was reinforced by a short but electric acapella performance put on by Bad Bunny after he became the first Latin artist to win Album of the Year with a Spanish-Language album.
Many viewers like Lally were invested in the performances from the winners, but other moments spoke to some fans in more meaningful ways.
“Jelly Roll’s speech was very inspiring to me. His vocal discussion of sobriety combined with my love for his music made it an amazing moment for me,” said Jacob Spindel (‘28).
Due to the large following that the Grammys have, they often become a platform for musicians to speak out on topics they find important, such as addiction or political issues.
“I think it was a great opportunity that the artists took advantage of, and they were able to speak out against ICE,” said Lally.
While students like Lally applaud artists for taking the opportunity and using the stage as a call to action, not everyone thinks that the Grammys are a place for protests.
“I admire what the artists did, and I understand why they chose to speak up, but I think that they shouldn’t have taken advantage of an entertainment event and turned it political,” said Lexi Hill (‘28).
Musicians speaking out wasn’t the only thing people disagreed with this year; many debates centered around the selections of the Recording Academy, the entity that picks out the winners from the nominations.
Some students support the choices of The Recording Academy, but others would like to see different winners.
“The award I would have changed would be giving Lil Baby the rap song of the year, because his song, “Superman,” was amazing and deserved more recognition,” said Lally.
Not only would people like to see new winners, but some would be interested in new categories.
“Biggest Letdown of the Year [is a new award I would like to see]. It’s for an album that came out and was very hyped up, but didn’t live up to it. This year it would have gone to I Hope You Are Happy by BigXthaPlug,” said Spindell
Everyone can voice their opinion about the Grammys, but they have run for sixty-eight years with no sign of slowing down. Regardless of the discourse, the Grammys still have many loyal fans.
“I love every moment of the Grammys,” said Hill, “from the performances to the awards.”
