Jazz and blues stars honoured at 60th GRAMMY Awards
Cécile McLorin Salvant, Tony Bennett and TajMo are among last night’s winners
It was a big night for jazz, soul and blues at the GRAMMY Awards held last night at Madison Square Gardens in New York City, and hosted by Britain’s James Corden. Tony Bennett received his twentieth GRAMMY for his 90th Birthday Celebration album – the jazz vocal legend won his first in 1962, and shares 8 with his son Dae, who produced the birthday record.
Jazzmeia Horn performed at the Billboard pre-show ceremony, paying tribute to the late Jon Hendricks. Horn was nominated for Best Jazz Vocal Album, but that gong went to Cécile McLorin Salvant whose ‘Dreams and Daggers’ LP was recorded live at the Village Vanguard club. Christian McBride’s Big Band was named Best Large Jazz Ensemble, Jeff Lorber Fusion won Best Contemporary Instrumental Album and guitarist John McLaughlin won Best Improvised Jazz Solo for his performance of ‘Miles Beyond’ live at Ronnie Scott’s.
The Rolling Stones ‘Blue & Lonesome’ was named Best Traditional Blues Album, while TajMo (Taj Mahal & Keb’ Mo’) were given the Best Contemporary Blues Prize; they gave special mention to jazz bassist Charles Mingus in their acceptance speech.
New Orleans legends The Meters and singer Tina Turner were specially recognised with The Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Awards at the event.
The full list can be found on the GRAMMY website.