Tim White
Feb 05, 2024 - 11:00

Stevie Wonder, Fantasia Barrino lead emotional Grammys in memoriam

The 2024 Grammy Awards featured a night of celebration and remembrance, with tributes to music legends and emotional performances.

The 2024 Grammy Awards were a night of incredible celebration and poignant remembrance as the music industry's biggest names gathered at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Feb. 4. It was a time to honor the outstanding achievements of the past year, but also to pay tribute to the talented individuals who had passed away in the previous year.

The emotional in memoriam segment was a highlight of the evening, with Stevie Wonder opening the tribute by honoring the late Tony Bennett. Wonder spoke movingly about Bennett's immense contributions to music and his unwavering commitment to art, peace, civil rights, and more. He then delivered a heartfelt performance of "For Once in My Life" alongside a video of Bennett singing the same song, followed by a rendition of "The Best Is Yet To Come."

Annie Lennox followed, delivering a powerful rendition of Sinead O'Connor's "Nothing Compares 2 U." The segment featured appearances from iconic figures such as Tina Turner, Jimmy Buffett, and Harry Belafonte, among others, further underscoring the profound impact of the artists who were being honored.

Lenny Kravitz then paid tribute to Clarence Avant, a revered music executive and film producer, before introducing Jon Batiste, who captivated the audience with performances of "Ain't No Sunshine," "Lean on Me" by Bill Withers, and "Optimistic" featuring Ann Nesby by Sounds of Blackness.

Oprah Winfrey graced the stage to celebrate her dear friend Tina Turner, offering heartfelt praise for the iconic artist. She then introduced Fantasia Barrino, who dazzled in a gold-fringed ensemble as she delivered a show-stopping performance of "Proud Mary" by Ike & Tina Turner. Barrino was joined by a group of dancers in Turner-inspired dresses, captivating the audience with their electrifying tribute to the legendary artist.

The 2024 Grammy Awards were a testament to the enduring impact of music and the profound influence of the artists who have left an indelible mark on the industry. It was a night of celebration, but also a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of those who have enriched the world through their artistry.