Associated Press (02/03/25) Kennedy, Mark
Sunday evening's Grammy Awards ceremony was a memorable event marked by significant outreach to the public to help with the recent California wildfires tragedy and Beyoncé winning Album of the Year and Country Album of the Year for “Cowboy Carter.” Album of the Year was given to the recording star by a group of Los Angeles firefighters who had been tapped as presenters. Approximately $7 million was pledged from viewers during the show, with frequent prompts by host Trevor Noah. Other notable moments included: Doechii winning the Grammy for Best Rap Album, only the third woman to do so in that category; Chappell Roan being crowned Best New Artist, then using her speech to demand change in the music business to help developing artists; Lady Gaga accepting the trophy for Best Pop Duo or Group alongside Bruno Mars, then urging acceptance and love of the trans community; and Will Smith hosting a tribute to the late Quincy Jones. This was the Grammy winning actor's first appearance at a major awards ceremony since he infamously slapped Chris Rock onstage at the 2022 Academy Awards.
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