In a surprising twist, Fab Morvan, one half of the infamous pop duo Milli Vanilli, has found a unique redemption as he received a Grammy nomination for best audiobook narration and storytelling for his memoir, “You Know It’s True: The Real Story of Milli Vanilli.” This comes 35 years after the duo infamously lost their Grammy for Best New Artist when it was revealed they did not actually perform the vocals on their hit songs. Now, Morvan is hoping for a light-hearted reevaluation of his contributions to music as he goes against the conventional narrative surrounding his past.
Meanwhile, New Zealand singer Lorde has found herself overlooked once again, garnering no nominations for her latest albums, “Solar Power” and “Virgin.” This continues a trend for the artist who once received accolades for her sophomore effort “Melodrama,” which included a nomination for album of the year in 2018. With mixed responses to her recent work, many fans feel that even standout tracks from “Virgin,” like “Broken Glass” and “Man of the Year,” deserved more recognition in a year that presented a diverse range of musical styles.
Leon Thomas, recognized for his smooth R&B sound, is nominated for album of the year for his release “Mutt.” His work showcases stylish retro elements blended with modern production, reflecting the changing landscape of music. However, the Grammy categorization has sparked confusion, especially with Thomas’s “Vibes Don’t Lie” nominated for best traditional R&B performance despite its contemporary production qualities. This situation raises questions about the definitions of “traditional” within the ever-evolving music industry.
In a significant recognition of their impact, the Baltimore hardcore band Turnstile has garnered five Grammy nominations this year, matching prestigious artists like SZA and Tyler, the Creator. This marks a continuing acknowledgment of Turnstile’s eclectic sound. Their nominations span multiple categories reflecting the diversity of their latest album, “Never Enough,” from best rock song to best metal performance, although this latter nomination may spark debate among traditional metal enthusiasts.
Additionally, the regional roots music album award will predominantly feature artists from Louisiana this year, leaving out Hawaiian and other regional representatives. This shift highlights how the Grammy Awards are grappling with identifying and honoring the variety of musical styles that exist across the United States, suggesting that while certain traditions may be celebrated, others are still seeking visibility.
As the Grammy nominations steer discussions on artistic recognition and the evolving criteria within the music industry, the shift towards acknowledging diverse talents and genres offers a hopeful glimpse into a future where a broader spectrum of artists can find their place in the spotlight.