Alicia Keys has been confirmed as the host of the 2019 Grammy Awards.
Keys, herself a 15-time Grammy winner, will take on hosting duties for one of music’s biggest nights on February 10. The Grammys is returning to Los Angeles this year (where it’ll be held at the Staples Center) after it took place in New York in 2018.
The musician made the big announcement on the Grammys’ official Twitter account this afternoon (January 15), while a short film uploaded to YouTube further conveyed her delight at being chosen to host this year’s ceremony – see that below.
In a press statement released to accompany the news, Keys added: “I know what it feels like to be on that stage, and I’m going to bring that vibe and energy. I’m so excited to be the master of ceremonies on the biggest night in music and celebrate the creativity, power and, magic.
“I’m especially excited for all the incredible women nominated this year! It’s going up on February 10!”
Outgoing Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow, who attracted controversy last year for telling female artists to “step up” if they wanted to be recognised at awards ceremonies like the Grammys, said Keys was “the perfect choice” for host.
Recommended
“Throughout her exciting career, I have watched her become a powerful force within the music industry and beyond,” Portnow commented. “As an artist who speaks to the power of music for good, a role model, and a spokesperson for change, we are thrilled to have her on board for what’s sure to be an unforgettable Grammy Awards.”
The full nominations for the 2019 Grammys were announced last month, with Kendrick Lamar leading the way with an impressive eight nominations. Drake has seven nods, while producer Boi-1da and Brandi Carlile earned six apiece – making Carlile the most nominated woman at this year’s ceremony.