Beyoncé won a record-breaking 32nd Grammy Award, while Harry Styles won album of the year, at this year’s ceremony in Los Angeles.
Beyoncé made history as she won best dance/electronic album for her euphoric dance opus, Renaissance.
In doing so, she overtook Hungarian-British conductor George Solti, whose record of 31 Grammys had stood for more than 20 years.
“I’m trying not to be too emotional,” said the star, accepting her prize.
“I’m trying to just receive this night.”
She went on to thank her family, including her late uncle Jonny, who helped make her stage outfits before she became famous.
Beyoncé has previously said his battle with HIV influenced her interest in dance music, and its historical ties to the LGBTQ community, on Renaissance
Overall, Beyoncé won four prizes at the ceremony – but missed some of the early presentations after getting stuck in gridlocked downtown Los Angeles.
“I’m surprised traffic could stop you,” joked host Trevor Noah. “I thought you travelled through space and time.”
Despite her success, Beyoncé was once again locked out of the coveted album of the year award.
She has now lost the prize four times, most notably in 2017 when her confessional masterpiece Lemonade was beaten by Adele’s 25.
At the time, Adele used her acceptance speech to say Beyoncé was the more deserving winner (although she held on to the trophy).
This year, Harry Styles took the crown, with Grammy voters recognising the slick, radio-friendly pop of his third record Harry’s House.
In his speech, the British star downplayed the importance of the prize.
“On nights like tonight, it’s obviously so important for us to remember that there is no such thing as best in music,” said the singer.
“I don’t think any of us sit in the studio, making decisions based on what is going to get us one of these.”
However, he was visibly moved by the honour, adding: “This doesn’t happen to people like me very often, and this is so, so nice.”
Earlier in the night, the star also won best pop album – receiving his award with a kiss from Jennifer Lopez.
“This album from start to finish has been the greatest experience of my life,” he said. “From making it with two of my best friends to playing for people has been the greatest joy I could have asked for.”
British artists triumph
Billed as “music’s biggest night”, the Grammys are the industry’s most prestigious awards.
Sunday’s show was attended by Adele, Taylor Swift, Jay-Z Shania Twain and Stevie Wonder, with performances from Lizzo, Steve Lacy and Brandi Carlile.
British artists had a good night, with indie duo Wet Leg winning two prizes, including best alternative album; and Sam Smith receiving best pop duo/group performance for Unholy, a duet with Kim Petras.
Smith’s prize was their first Grammy since 2015, when they won four trophies, including best new artist.
However, the singer let Petras take the microphone to mark another historical achievement.
“Sam graciously wanted me to accept this award because I’m the first transgender woman to win this award,” said the German-born singer.
Source: BBC NEWS.com
