Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” won Grammys for song and record of the year on Sunday, becoming the first rap song to win the prestigious awards. Gambino — also known as Donald Glover — did not attend the event and reportedly declined an invitation to perform at the Grammys.
“This Is America” beat out “Shallow,” “God’s Plan” and other big hits. The Grammy Award for song of the year honors song writers, while Record of the Year goes to the recording artist.
The Recording Academy has made an effort to diversify its membership amid complaints the Grammys have frequently failed to recognize rap and hip-hop artists in the major categories. Longtime Grammy producer Ken Ehrlich acknowledged, “We continue to have a problem in the hip-hop world.” However with big wins at last nights awards ceremony, it looks like things are changing.
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