I know the Grammys (and any form of 'competitive music') is not big amongst many GFSAers, but I did want to give a big shout out to the legendary Neil Young - who finally - at this late stage of his career - won a Grammy for Best Rock Song. Although he won a technical Grammy last year, this was his first Grammy for his music. He attended and seemed genuinely pleased - despite famously writing off the Grammys in the 80s.
Although music is obviously subjective - and will always remain in inherent tension with the idea of non-measurable awards ('best this and that') - it is regarded as the industry standard recognition, and it is woeful that many top artists have neer been rewarded. Neil's first comes after 11 previous nominations! The debate about which deserving artists have never received Grammys will continue for as long as the equally important 'are the Grammys relevant' one, but its good to see 2011 bring some deserving Awards amongst all the r 'n b, rap and other nonsense. Other winners this year include Jeff Beck (x3), Buddy Guy, Paul McCartney, Randy Newman, Larry Carlton and Iron Maiden.
Full results:
http://www.grammy.com/nominees
