Grammys 2022 highlights: Jon Batiste wins 5 trophies, AR Rahman makes his presence felt

Initially, the ceremony was scheduled for January 31st but like a lot of major events, the Omicron variant of the coronavirus and resulting spike in Covid-19 cases ensured the event had to be delayed. Unlike other awards, Grammys are usually fairly predictable, except for this year.

Every year, the Grammys honour musical artistes, compositions and albums. They have been held every year since 1959. This year, the number of categories had been bumped to 86, which was more than last year’s 84 categories.

Going in, Jon Batiste is the frontrunner with most nominations, 11 to be precise. Following Batiste were Doja Cat, H.E.R., and Justin Bieber, each of whom had eight nominations.

Batiste emerged as the big winner, with five trophies, including Album of the Year for We Are. Rodrigo took home three trophies, including the best new artist. Music duo Silk Sonic, consisting of singer  Bruno Mars and rapper, singer Anderson, clinched Grammys in the Record of the Year and Song of the Year categories for “Leave the Door Open”.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made an unexpected appearance during the cermony through a pre-recorded video message. Zelenskyy has won praise for his courage and leadership during the Russian invasion of his country that has created a humanitarian crisis. He drew attention to the issue in his evocative message to the world.

“The war. What’s more opposite than music,” he began before adding, “The silence of ruined cities and killed people. Our children drew swooping rockets, not shooting stars. Over 400 children have been injured and 153 children died. And we will never see them drawing. The war doesn’t let us choose who survives and who stays in eternal silence. Our musicians wear body armor instead of tuxedos. They sing to the wounded. In hospitals.”

He urged those listening to talk about the war. “Tell the truth about war. On your social networks. On TV. Support us in any way you can. Any. But not silence,” he said.