Daily Marauder

THE GRAMMYS 2008: THE OLD WITH THE NEW by Marauder

THE GRAMMYS 2008: THE OLD WITH THE NEW

The 50^th annual Grammy Awards mixed the new with the old [cough] [cough] classic. From the opening moments of the show, the new and the “classic” made melodies together.

It aint where i been. . .but where i’m bout to go

Turns out, Jay Z was wrong. It’s definitely about where we’ve been as long as we can see where we’re going.

Alicia Keys’ Opening Performance with Frank Sinatra

I’ve been particularly interested in this concept of merging old/new for quite some time and found the Grammy approach refreshing as well. The Grammy organization has been criticized for not speaking the language of the future. I would argue that the Grammys speak to many age groups simultaneously and, in my opinion, pretty effectively. Here are a few of my favorite Grammy moments:

Beatles Tribute

Alicia Keys Featuring John Mayer

Kanye West Featuring Daft Punk

And even though she was off key and attempting a bit too much. . .

Amy Winehouse

If I have one criticism for the Grammys, it would be the focus on American music. After watching the Grammys last night, one would assume that the only amazing music is coming out of the U.S., with the exception to Andrea Bocelli. While this has never been the case, it most certainly isn’t the case now. I know there is general indifference where international music is concerned but I expect an organization like the Grammys to flip the script. That would be one serious mix tape right there. . .

Allow me to expand the view.

IAM Petit Frère

Off of their 1997 album, L’école du micro d’argent, Petit Frère (Little Brother) is a song about growing up in the rough streets outside Paris. The album, by IAM, sold over 1 million copies worldwide in the late nineties. American artists, including Missy Elliot and Wu-Tang Clan, have performed with IAM. My hope for our musical future is that we learn how to accept music sung in other languages. And no, Shakira does not suffice. . .

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