The Grammy Awards on Sunday (Feb. 4) in Los Angeles were an emotional and powerful tribute to late music icons. Stevie Wonder, Annie Lennox, and Jon Batiste were among the performers who honored the lives and careers of legendary artists who have passed away.
Stevie Wonder paid tribute to the late Tony Bennett, performing “The Best Is Yet to Come” and a virtual duet of “For Once in My Life” with footage of Bennett on a big screen. Wonder celebrated Bennett’s love for art, peace, unity, and civil rights, expressing that he will miss him forever. Annie Lennox, partnered with Wendy & Lisa, commemorated Sinead O’Connor with a rendition of her hit “Nothing Compares 2 You” and called for a ceasefire and world peace, acknowledging O’Connor’s activism. The In Memoriam section honored many other artists, songwriters, performers, and music executives who passed away in the past year, including Jimmy Buffett, Chita Rivera, Burt Bacharach, and more.
Lenny Kravitz appeared to honor Clarence Avant, known as “The Godfather of Black Music,” who played key roles in labels and managed artists such as Little Willie John and Jimmy Smith. The evening also included a soulful performance by Jon Batiste, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Ann Nesby, and Cory Henry of songs such as “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Lean on Me,” and “Optimistic.” Later, Fantasia Barrino and Oprah Winfrey honored the late entertainer Tina Turner.
The Grammy Awards served as a memorable and touching tribute to those who have left a significant impact on the music industry. The performances reminded us of the talent, passion, and influence of these late music icons and their enduring legacy.
Source link