Alicia Keys
Nationwide — 15-time Grammy winner R&B singer Alicia Keys is definitely a girl on fire as she has recently been named the host of the upcoming Grammy Awards ceremony. This year’s show is expected to be female-driven after the award-giving body faced controversies last year regarding gender diversity.
The Recording Academy announced on Tuesday that Alicia Keys will be hosting the show for the first time ever.
“A dynamic artist with the rare combination of groundbreaking talent and passion for her craft, Alicia Keys is the perfect choice as host for our show,” Neil Portnow, President/CEO of the Recording Academy, said in a statement. “Throughout her exciting career, I have watched her become a powerful force within the music industry and beyond. As an artist who speaks to the power of music, we are thrilled to have her on board for what’s sure to be an unforgettable Grammy Awards.”
Keys posted a YouTube video of her real-time reaction, including when she broke the news to her mother and husband and her preparations for the big night. She is excited because although she often came to the show in the past years to perform or to receive awards, it will be different now that she will serve as the master of ceremonies.
“I know what it feels like to be on that stage, and I’m going to bring that vibe and energy,” Keys said. “I’m so excited to be the master of ceremonies on the biggest night in music and celebrate the creativity, power and, magic. I’m especially excited for all the incredible women nominated this year!”
Drake and Kendrick Lamar were the leading nominees, and are followed by female artists like Brandi Carlile, Lady Gaga, H.E.R., Cardi B, Janelle Monáe, and Kacey Musgraves.
Keys will be the first woman to host the Grammys after more than a decade. She takes over the hosting duties from James Corden, who hosted for the last two years and LL Cool J, who hosted for five years since 2012. From 2006 to 2011, there was no host. Other previous hosts include Queen Latifah, Rosie O’Donnell, and Ellen DeGeneres.
The 61st Grammy Awards will be held on February 10, 2019 and will be aired live on CBS from the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Watch her celebrate when she found out: