NPR

When will Black artists be ready to break up with The Grammys?

On Sunday, Jay-Z accepted an honorary Grammy by taking gentle aim at the awards' failure to support Black musicians. "We want y'all to get it right — at least get it close to right" he said.
Jay-Z (left) accepts the honorary Dr. Dre Global Impact Award alongside his daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, during the 66th Grammy Awards on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Standing on the stage at the 66th Grammys on Feb. 4 to accept an honorary award, Jay-Z's speech ended up being anything but accepting.

"We love y'all," Jay said, diplomatically motioning to the room of assembled megastars and industry vets before adding, "We want y'all to get it right — at least get it close to right."

Even watching on TV, you could feel the energy in the room shift. His brow furrowed, one hand in his tux pocket and the other holding the all-black Dr. Dre Global Impact Award Grammy, with his eldest daughter, Blue Ivy, by his side for support, HOV said he was "honored" to receive the award. He thanked Dr. Dre, who was in the house, and the Grammys' Black Music Collective for their support and philanthropy.

In an off-the-cuff delivery that's come to be

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
Roger Corman, The B-Movie Legend Who Launched A-List Careers, Dies At 98
Over some five decades, Corman filled America's drive-ins with hundreds of low-budget movies. Many of Hollywood's most respected directors have at least one Corman picture buried in their resumes.
NPR2 min read
Short-term Loss For Long-term Gain? The Ethical Dilemma At The Heart Of EVs
As mines meet mineral demands for electric vehicles, they put communities and ecosystems at risk. Sustainability researcher Elsa Dominish says the EV industry cannot repeat fossil fuel's mistakes.
NPR3 min read
There's Still A Chance To See The Northern Lights From Lower Latitudes
The solar storm that's pushing sightings of the Northern Lights to lower latitudes is forecast to continue into the coming days, but its impact has likely peaked.

Related Books & Audiobooks