So What's Grammy Week Like? I'm Glad You Asked
In the immortal words of poet laureate Cam Parsons, 'May the RSVPs be in your favor.'
As a critically acclaimed culture critic and consultant who’s been ensnared in all things entertainment for approximately 12 years and counting, it’s safe to assume I’ve survived a Grammy Week or seven. So, since people always have questions about what it entails, I figured I’d give those of you who haven’t had the privilege of being deprived of sleep for seven days straight a glimpse behind the curtain.
You’re welcome in advance.
Sooooooo, what the hell is Grammy Week?
I’m glad you asked! In the week leading up to the Grammy Awards, the Recording Academy—and its deep-pocketed associated parties—bombard Los Angeles with an endless succession of live performances, sexy ass dinners, panels, galas, parties, secret events, workshops, and whatever the hell else until the Grammy Awards finally stroll along on Sunday and bring us back to our senses.
Okay, so it’s just for celebrities?
Not at all. It actually serves many functions, and can be beneficial to you whether you’re a big-name celebrity or not. It’s a fantastic opportunity to expand your network, build community, and promote your work. Artist showcases are common, and performing in front of the right manager or meeting the right music exec could completely change your life. It’s basically an annual family reunion for the music industry with groupies sprinkled in—because groupies build character and make everything better.
And it’s for seven days straight?
Yup. Every. Single. Day. There are dozens of events tripping and stumbling over each other literally from the time you wake up until the time you go to bed. So there’s a 100% chance you’re gonna miss something you really wanted to hit up, but such is the price we pay for euphoria.
Damn, that sounds exhausting.
You have nooooooo idea. Which is exactly why I pumped the brakes this year instead of running myself into the ground for the 87th year in a row.
So what’d you do differently this year?
Instead of trying to be anywhere and everywhere like I was contractually obligated to do in a past life, I protected my peace and only popped up where I either had to be or where I really wanted to—either for personal reasons or to support the homies. Shoutout to my therapist for beating this approach into my head. It made a world of difference not only in my enjoyment but also in my mental and physical health.
Yo, I love that for you! So what does a typical day look like?
I’ll give you two different days of the seven, since they were different but somewhat similar.
On Tuesday, since I always support the home team—Amazon Music—I kicked off the day with their Grammy party on the Amazon Studios lot. The drinks and tuna tostadas were plentiful, the vibes were immaculate, and Skepta on the turntables is an undeniable win. After that, I slid over to The Regent for DJ Jazzy Jeff’s Playlist Live, which was dope as the entire fuck and featured Butcher Brown, Mumu Fresh, and countless others paying tribute to J. Dilla. The way each artist put their own spin on different Dilla classics was crazy, and this was easily one of the highlights of the week.
On Friday, I hit up UnitedMasters’ Celebration of Independence, which featured BigXthaPlug and the Clipse—with a special appearance from Pharrell—then slid over to the Epic Records x Hennessy Grammy Party to congratulate Tyla, Giveon, and the rest of their Grammy nominees. (And pop up just in time to wish Tyla a happy birthday.) But the belle of the ball that night was producer Alissa’s Boogie Nights: Grammy Edition party at Sunset at EDITION. Any party that includes a live band, people dancing on roller skates, and Sheila fucking E playing the congas (!!!!!!!!) over your favorite songs is an automatic win.
Are there any events going on the day of the Grammys?
Yup. Plenty of afterparties, and Bryan-Michael Cox’s annual The Breakfast Club Pre-Grammy Brunch, honoring Alex Isley, Eric Roberson, and Walter Jones, was divine. Ask me how I know. (Psssst…I was there.)
Wow, all this sounds dope. How do I attend an event? And who’s paying for all this?
It definitely ain’t cheap. But with sponsors, brands, and artists fighting for your attention, these events are usually free. But there’s a catch, because isn’t there always? Anything open to the public is usually flooded with people trying to attend, so good luck getting your RSVP confirmed. As for the more exclusive stuff, it’s all about relationships. If your best friend is Jamie Foxx, it’s safe to assume you won’t have any problems getting invited to anything.
Okay, I think I got it. I think I’m ready to join in the festivities next year.
I’m just here to help. Go forth and be blessed.