It’s a battle of the bold, brave and the outspoken with the Grammy’s nominations for this year’s Album of the Year.
Kendrick Lamar, a rapper known for his passionate lyrics, is a fast-rising rap legend and lyrical genius who’s been given the nod by hip-hop kings like Snoop Dog and Dr. Dre. His fourth studio album, DAMN, went double-platinum with his standout track “Humble” hitting the No.1 Hot 100s list. Two more of his songs—“Loyalty” and “Love”—entered the Top 20 the past year.
Another genius performer known for his political and personal reckonings, Childish Gambino (Donald Glover in real life) eases into the list as a favorite with his brilliant, soulful re-workings in Awaken, My Love. A complete 180-turn from his past work (which was mostly hip-hop), his new album is an unabashed throwback to 1970s funkadelics with clear influences by Stevie Wonder, Prince, and Earth, Wind and Fire. His song, “Red Bone” was a phenomenal hit, which became the title track of Get Out, a critically acclaimed movie by director Jordan Peele.
Another artist who continually surprises and evolves, Bruno Mars makes his run for Album of the Year with 24K Magic, a definite crowd pleaser with infectious beats that bring us back the feel-good vibes of the ‘90s. With the smash hit “24K Magic” to the sexy rhythms of “Versace on the Floor” to the Living in Color tribute, “Finesse,”24K Magic becomes a true solid gold album.
Considered a strong and giant figure in the rap world, Jay Z sheds off a little bit of his intimidating armor and shows vulnerability in 4:44. On the title track, Jay Z addresses his issues of infidelity and offers an all-out apology to his wife, Beyonce Knowles. The stories behind the songs may have drawn the public initially, but the music itself is what has listeners hitting the repeat button. Strong, bold, and honest, the album holds its own even without the fanfare.
The lone lady on the list, Lorde dispels the curse of the “second album syndrome” and delivers another memorable album with “Melodrama.” After the success of her debut album, which catapulted her into the limelight, Lorde wanted to take a step back and escape. And she did for a few months. But she has since bounced back with an even more compelling album that tells her journey of self-reflection. Heartbreak, uncertainty, fear and learning—all the tunes speak of universal truths that touch listeners both young and old.
Find out who will take home the coveted award as Jack TV brings the GRAMMYs to your screens via satellite on January 29, Monday at 8:30 am, with a primetime telecast at 7 pm on Jack TV. Replays on January 31, at 9 pm, and on February 4, Sunday at 5 pm – 8:30 pm. Tag #Grammys and #LongLiveMusic for updates!
