By Rachel Schier and Mackenzie Gosset
February 15th, 2016 marked the 58th annual Grammy Awards, one of the most anticipated awards shows of the year. Hosted by LL Cool J at the Staples Center in L.A, this year’s show was one to remember.
The night kicked off with Taylor Swift’s performance of “Out Of The Woods,” and it certainly did not disappoint anyone. Swift’s performance was followed by the performances of many other celebrities that viewers all know and love, including: Justin Bieber, Adele, Demi Lovato, Carrie Underwood, Rihanna, Sam Hunt, and more! Some of the most popular songs from the year were performed live at the awards, and the audience was surprised and entertained by unlikely mash-ups of some of the year’s top songs. Carrie Underwood and Sam Hunt performed a mash-up of Carrie Underwood’s hit song “Heartbeat” and Sam Hunt’s song “Take Your Time.” Another mash-up was performed by Andrea Day and Ellie Goulding. The two collaborated and sang Day’s “Rise Up” and Goulding’s “Love Me Like You Do.”
The first award of the night was for Best Rap Album. This went to Kendrick Lamar’s album “To Pimp A Butterfly,” rather than Nicki Minaj’s “The Pinkprint,” Dr. Dre’s “Compton,” or Drake’s “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late.” Lamar, the most nominated artist of the night, went home with four other awards that included: Best Music Video, Best Rap Song, Best Rap/Sung Collaboration, and Best Rap Performance. On another note, Taylor Swift’s album “1989” was voted Album of the Year. This is not really surprising after hearing one of her songs on almost every radio station multiple times in the course of a day; like it or not, Taylor Swift is a dominating force in the music industry. The Record of the Year award was given to Mark Ronson, featuring Bruno Mars, for the hit single “Uptown Funk.” This single also won the award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. Because of her hit songs “All About that Bass,” “Lips Are Movin,” and “Like I’m Gonna Lose You,” it was not shocking that Meghan Trainor won the award for Best New Artist. Fans were upset that Adele’s name was not announced as a nominee or award winner throughout the night. Unfortunately, the eligibility period for the 2016 awards extended until September 30th, 2015, but her album “25” was not released until November 21st. Justin Bieber won his first grammy for the Best Dance Recording for his hit song “Where Are U Now” with Skrillex and Diplo. Not only are all of the winners incredibly talented, but all of the nominees are very talented and deserving artists as well.
All in all, the 58th Annual Grammys was not a show that will soon be forgotten. From entertaining performances, to sentimental acceptance speeches, all the way to stunning fashion, the whole show was fun and appropropriate entertainment for fans of all ages. Before you know it, you will be listening to your favorite song getting nominated at the 59th Annual Grammys!
Photo Courtesy of bustle.com
