Words By: Brittany Burton
As the 2021 Grammy awards took place yesterday night, there were many memorable moments that viewers everywhere will remember. Despite the climate surrounding reception and relevance of the storied awards show, there were a handful of moments that offered viewers reason to appreciate the ceremonies during these uncertain times. From Lil Baby’s compelling performance to Beyoncé making history as the most decorated female recording artist in the academy, this was a night aligned for music’s brightest stars to shine
As many people found success at the Grammy awards, other winners includes Megan Thee Stallion, H.E.R., Robert Glasper, Thundercat, Kanye West and first time winner Nas to name a few. It was a big night for Hip Hop and R&B and good to see the Academy recognize so many of the genre’s forerunners despite criticism for its exclusion of artists within these genres.
Performers that stood out were Cardi B, Lil Baby, Megan Thee Stallion, Doja Cat, Da Baby, Roddy Ricch, Dua Lipa, Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Post Malone, Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift and Harry Styles. With impeccable performances, dashing attire and history making awardees, it is safe to say that this by far has been the most impressive award show to date.
Check out the 7 most memorable moments of the 2021 Grammy Awards.
Beyoncé Makes History Winning 28th Grammy
It was a historic night for living legend Beyoncé. Having already won a Grammy alongside Blue Ivy for Best Music Video, the superstar made history winning her 28th Grammy for Best Rap Performance alongside Megan Thee Stallion. Beyoncé is now the most decorated female recording artist at the Academy beating Alison Krauss who held the record for 27 Grammy wins. She has also tied Quincy Jones for the second most Grammy wins ever! Her black girl magic is a whole different level.
Megan Thee Stallion Grammy Award Winning Artist
As it has been a hot girl summer all year, Megan Thee Stallion has been the rap game’s it girl. Having one of the biggest album to drop in 2020, she was nominated for four awards, she took home three! Megan won awards in the categories of Best New Artist, Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance alongside Beyoncé. The pair made history as the first pair of women to win Best Rap Performance. As both ladies are from Houston, I know the residents of the city are very proud of their very own. Congratulations Megan! Megan is now a three time Grammy Award winner.
Lil Baby’s Performance
As the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery sparked racial tension in America, many entertainers used their platforms to spark change had create unity. One person in particular is rap sensation Lil Baby. With his “Bigger Picture” single, he was sure to tell the world that their has to be a bigger picture behind all of the nonsense. To make sure the world understands how important his message is, he performed his hit record leaving on lookers breathless worldwide. His performers by far was the most compelling as it reflected the current state of the world and pandemic we are in. Kudos to Lil Baby for taking a stance for his people. Adding activist Killer Mike to his set was the icing on the cake!
Nas Wins first Grammy Award
Rap icon Nas has been in the music business for over 25 plus years. In that time though, he has never been able to snag a Grammy Award! But that has now come to an end. Nas is the 2021 Grammy Award Winner of Best Rap Album for his 13th studio album, King’s Disease. It’s refreshing to finally see the rap icon be rewarded and celebrated as he deserves.
Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion Perform “WAP“
One of the biggest records of 2020 was by far Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s “WAP.” If you’re looking for any indication to how true the statement is, please recall the moment in which supporters chanted the song’s lyrics to commemorate Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’ win. It only made sense that the two femcees bring the song to biggest stage on music. Pairing lethal bars with dashing costumes, Cardi & Meg undisputedly stole the show.
H.E.R. Wins Song Of The Year
Songbird H.E.R. is one of the leading voices in R&B. Nominated for three Grammys this year, she brought home two. The most honorable award that she took home was Song Of The Year for her heartfelt “I Can’t Breathe,” penned at the height of 2020’s civil rights movement. Her courage, power and leadership garnered her this award no doubt. She also took home Best R&B song for “Better Than I Imagine,” making her a three-time Grammy Award winner.
Billie Eilish Wins Album of The Year; Dedicates To Megan Thee Stallion
As everyone patiently waited to see who would win Album Of The Year, Billie Eilish, Megan The Stallion, Black Pumas, Dababy, Doja Cat, Post Malone, Roddy Ricch were up the trophy. Ultimately Billie Eilish took home the award for her Everything I Wanted, making it the second year in a row the 19-year-old has won this award. During her acceptance speech she graciously referecned Megan Thee Stallion.
“You deserve this. You had a year that I think is impalpable. You are a queen, I want to cry thinking about how much I love you. You’re so beautiful. You’re so talented. You deserve everything in the world,” she said onstage. “I think about you constantly, I root for you always. You deserve it, honestly, genuinely, this goes to her. Can we just cheer for Megan Thee Stallion, please?”