By Kailyn Jennings
Contributing Writer
Just days ago, artists from all musical backgrounds vied for the coveted golden gramophone that represents the epitome of musical accomplishment.
The 55th Annual Grammy Awards took place Sunday at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. For the second time, LL Cool J hosted the event that more than 28 million people watched.
Viewers tuned in to see deserving artists receive their recognition, as well as to see who wore what and who wore it better.
The days following the Grammys have been filled with talk of the stars’ attire after CBS issued a request for the stars to be decently dressed at the event. Some stars definitely sparked discussion, including J. Lo in her leg-baring attire, as well as Katy Perry in her revealing dress.
The awards have turned into a fashion show, with celebrities walking the red carpet and talk of who was best dressed filling the media. However, the real meaning behind the award ceremony is the recognition of extremely talented artists, and with 81 Grammys to win, this year’s ceremony overflowed with them.
This year, 20 well-known artists performed live. Taylor Swift, in Alice and Wonderland attire, opened the show with her hit “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” from her most recent album “Red.”
Alicia Keys, following her performance of the National Anthem at the 2013 Super Bowl, sang her hit “Girl On Fire,” where she truly lit up the Staples Center. The gorgeous and talented Carrie Underwood also graced the stage singing her Grammy-award-winning hit “Blown Away” along with “Two Black Cadillacs,” both from her 2012 record.
Sharply-dressed duo Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z collaborated on their song “Suit and Tie” as well.
The performances truly showcased the amount of talent in the music industry and reflected the hard work and dedication the artists have put toward their music – the true meaning behind the award ceremony.
This year, the Grammy Awards displayed an extremely diverse group of nominees. No one completely stole the show, as Adele did last year when she won six Grammys.
Gotye walked away with Record of the Year for the song “Somebody That I Used to Know,” and earned Best Pop Duo/Group Performance as well as Best Alternative Music Album for “Making Mirrors.” The Black Keys were not left in the dark either, as they walked away with four Grammy awards in hand.
Fun. received Song of the Year for “We Are Young,” a song which inspired many to live in the moment. The band left with the title of Best New Artist as well. They accepted their awards with humor, upholding the name of the band.
Female artists definitely proved their strength this year as well. Adele added another well-deserved Grammy to her collection. Her song “Set Fire to the Rain” earned Best Pop Solo Performance. Following up on her show-stopping performance at the Super Bowl, Beyoncé went home with the Best Traditional R&B Performance for “Love on Top.”
Sticking with the theme of powerhouse female artists, Rihanna took home the Grammy for Best Short Form Music Video for “We Found Love,” which she claims to have done with Chris Brown.
American Idol powerhouses Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson proved they did not leave their careers on the American Idol stage. The Best Country Solo Performance and Best Country Song were awarded to Underwood for her song “Blown Away,” which fit because she definitely blew the audience away with her performance. Clarkson took home the Grammy for Pop Vocal Album with “Stronger,” proving she is as strong as ever.
Bruce Springsteen received the MusiCares Person of the Year award. He joined the ranks of renowned artists before him such as Phil Collins, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin.
For more information and a complete list of all of the 2013 Grammy award winners, visit www.grammy.com. Be sure to check out all of the great entertainment and recognition the 2013 Grammy Awards provided.
