Opinions on the Grammy Nominations

So I know these nominations came out a while ago, but I’ve been finding out more about them as the weeks go on, and since I’m in the mood to write about music today, I thought this would be a good topic. And while the Grammys usually recognize a few legitmately good musicians, mostly it’s just a mixed bag of songs and artists that were on the Top 40 the whole year long, and usually only one non-Top-Forty song or artist squeaks by in each category. Which I think is kind of lame. In any case, here are my thoughts:

1) How is Song of the Year different from Record of the Year? I know they say there’s an actual difference but three from the Song category are in the Record category as well. Why not just have one category? It’s super confusing. But, the good news is, that “Holocene” by Bon Iver is nominated in these categories. The dude’s been kicking around for a while and now he’s popping up with all these nominations (including Best New Artist) out of nowhere. It’s an indie band with a big sound and is gaining momentum everywhere so you should definitely check them out. Other nominees for both these categories include “Rolling in the Deep” and “Grenade.” Both decent choices, though I think “Rolling in the Deep” has the edge. And I swear that if Katy Perry wins Record of the Year with “Firework” I will go bonkers. That song is overplayed, overused in commercials, and is just not a very good song. I mean, who gets up in the morning and says, “Gee, I feel like a plastic bag today”? I get the metaphor Katy, but it’s kind of weak.

2) ADELE IS EVERYWHERE. I wouldn’t be surprised if she’s a surprise winner in the Best Hip Hop or Rap Album because she’s so big. I bet they put her song in every category just so they can give her all the Grammys. For reals though, she’s nominated for six of them, and she’ll probably win all six of them because a) she’s Adele b) her ex boyfriend sucks and c) she’s Adele.

3) Album of the Year surprise: Foo Fighters? Where did that come from? I didn’t even know they had an album. Are they still popular? That’s all I have to say about that.

4) They took away the male/female designators so Bruno Mars is competing against the likes of Katy Perry, Adele, Pink, and Lady Gaga for Best Pop Solo Vocal Performance. Which makes me wonder how he’s the only dude represented in that category…more girls do pop songs than guys do, perhaps? In any case, this should shake things up a bit. In the group category we’ve got some ups: The Black Keys and Foster the People, but even though “Moves Like Jagger” is probably THE catchiest song I’ve ever heard, it definitely shouldn’t be nominated just thanks to the lyrics alone. “Take me by the tongue?” “I put on a show, now we’re naked?” It’s just one massive face palm, no matter how great the whistling is.

5) My last point will be about stuff that I’m happy got recognized. “Call You Girlfriend” by Robyn for Best Dance Song is so good and bouncy. I only downloaded the song two days ago, but I’m glad that I did. Also, Cut/Copy, an electronic/alternative band is nominated for their album “Zonoscope” for Best Dance/Electronic Album. Take a listen to “Need You Now” by these guys: it’s a long song, but it’s worth checking out. Fleet Foxes are nominated in the folk album category and they do the best harmonies EVER. All their songs make you feel like you’re out in the woods taking a walk or something. Goofy, but true.

6) One more thing: Surprises. Barely any Taylor Swift, Kanye West, or Beyonce, who normally conquer this awards show. Not that I’m saying they should be recognized, but I just wonder how they got overlooked considering their past of being nominated all the time.

Happy Tuesday/Holidays everyone!