2019 Grammy's

The Grammy’s are one of only two “awards” shows that are worth watching ( The other is the Tony’s) because they both are entertaining; with the Grammy’s edging out as winner with their spectrum of new innovative musical numbers .

Alica Keyes does "Killing me softy" and "Unforgettabl" on two pianos

This year was particularly enticing , first with an apparent wane in Rap as dominant genre. (or maybe just that Kanye West was absent) I  could understand the music again, and it was lyrical.  The show addressed many different musical styles giving a bit of something to everyone.  I admit the rap that was present was engaging and had musicality to it this year.  just not my preferred style.

Ricky Martin and Camila Gambino open with "Havana"

The Opening Cuban number “Havana” featuring Camila Gambino with full compliment of stars including “man candy” Ricky Martin, was bright, catchy, and well staged.  It set a good tone. 

Then came capable host Alicia Keys and a clever and apt salute to empowered women.  I think having Michelle Obama amongst these other keynote ladies, Jada Pickett Smith, Gaga, J Lo, and Keyes was inspired thinking.  Michelle got the most thunderous standing ovation of the night.  It did get a bit tiring to hear Ms Keyes constant use of “my sistas” throughout the performance. Like a child that starts young as a cute amusing precocious center of attention,and as an adult becomes just annoying and repetitive.  Granted, recognition has been a long time coming, but why taint the new empowerment by diluting it with a trite affectation. 

Alica and Michelle

GaGa Jada Pinkett Smith, Keyes, Mchelle Obama, and J Lo

I am newly enamoured withShaun Mandez.  Wooooo-ee HOT young thing.(Even his piano was smoking and burning !)   His duo with Miley Cyrus was a standout .  I loved his sound.  His voice is so rich.  At times I felt as though I was hearing Rufus Wainwright ( another fave of mine)

Shaun and Miley 

Smokin hot Shaun Mendes and his fiery smokin piano

See what I mean?

Dolly Parton’s tribute involved a lot more poeple but wasn’t as lush as “La Ross’s”
I do not understand how she can give wind to her singing, cinched up like she is.
Katy Perry caught flak for supposedly trying to upstage  Parton but I don’t think so.  If anyone had the dominant pipes it was Miley Cyrus.  A great tribute and while even not as elaborate as Diana Ross’s (who appeared in the quintessential      quinceañera dress - either that, a U of Nebraska homecoming parade float, or a hand me down Gypsy wedding dress) Parton can take comfort she has her very own theme park whereas Ross has only a kids gym in Central Park, NYC !

Dolly Parton and her tribute squad

Dolly and Miley

Ross was introduced by her endearing 9 year old grandchild, Raif Kendricks the son of Ross and Motown Pres Barry Gordy's love child Rhonda  Kendricks who was seated in the audience with Gordy

Raif Kendricks introduces "Grandmommie"

I'm telling you- all you have to do is look and compare

The Queen in Red

Raif (far right) next to granddad Barry Gordy and his  and Diana's daughter Rhonda

I do not not like performers who obscure their persona. I could never hear Sia’s music as I was obsessed looking at her silly black and white hair.  Ditto H.E.R, (real name Gabi Wilson) and her distracting sunglasses.  Take the glasses off , please.  Part of any performance is seeing expression in the eyes.  She does have a very lofty timbre that I think we will hear a lot of in the future.

H.E.R sings "Hard Place"

Without the glasses. 

H.E.R. real name Gabi Wilson

It was a nostalgic blast to see Red Hot Chili Peppers with Post Malone.  Two good things- lead Anthony Kiedis got down and shirtless showing he still has not given in to gravity in his 50's, and second, that Flea has plenty of bounce left to show us !

A Shirtlss Anthony and Post Malone rock it out

J Lo got slammed as a strange choice for a Motown tribute,  but Barry Gordy  (in the audience) was beaming as he sat next to He and Ross’s  love child Rhonda Kendrick and her son Raif who later would introduce his “grandmommie” Diana Ross in an endearing moment onstage.  Ms Lopez really excelled in a frenetic , costume changing number that was worthy of a 30's Hollywood musical movie extravaganza. I loved it, and so did hubby A Ro who had a face dominating smile .

Cardi B really wowed me with her lush Josephine/Betty Boop rendition of “Money”  

Carli B

Carli B's song "Money" was beautifully and lavishly staged

Though the show had a great number of notable performances, my climactic moment was GaGa singing “Shallow” with Mark Ronson.  It has always been a truth to me that GaGa has rely sincerity in her music , and, indeed, in life.  She is a “real” person not just a manfactured celebrity.   This song has a great deal of meaning packed into it, and Lady GaGa, wrenches ever bit ofangst and eomtion in delivery .  I was awed by this performance and I think she put all of herself into it. A stellar moment.

GaGa goes all in with "Shallow"

Does anyone also see the resemblance of GaGa to TV show "Below Deck's Kate?

One snarky comment  (but really good for her career)  was that Miley Cyrus was Everywhere with everyone. I keep thinking, "What is she the 'floater,' 'Fill- in" so when they need something or someone doesn't show it's "Get Miley- she'll do it"   I had to chuckle  but have to add her vocal presence was appreciated

I really enjoyed this year;s Grammy’s.  The production was tight and full of content.

-Jerry Wendt 2019 all rights reserved