2019 Grammy Awards

On a night of legends being praised and emerging artists showcasing their talents, “This is America” has made history for being the first rap song to win record of the year at the 61 Grammy Awards.

Childish Gambino, the artist behind “This is America,” also won song of the year earlier in the night. This makes history again by being the first rap song to win song of the year. Even though Gambino, whose real name is Donald Glover, was absent from the show, his impact was apparent.

Cardi B, born Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, made history for being the first solo female artist to win rap album of the year. Cardi was overwhelmed with emotions while accepting the award for her album “Invasion of Privacy.”

“I can’t breathe, babe,” Cardi said while shaking and clutching her husband rapper Offset’s hand.

When her nerves began to unravel Cardi said “Maybe I need to start smoking weed.” The audience reacted with chuckles which drove Cardi to finish her speech.

At the forefront of the show was female representation. Host Alicia Keys opened the show by inviting four female friends on stage. One of these friends being former first lady Michelle Obama. Legends Dianna Ross, Dolly Parton and the late Aretha Franklin were honored with superstar tributes for their contributions to music. Female artists won big too. Best new artist, best R&B album and album of the year were all given to women.

“Who runs the world,” Keys asked during her opening comments.

After these awards the answer is women, and unlike award shows of the past, the political tone was nonexistent. In exchange there laid a message of empowerment, and a bigger focus on making history.

Click here for a full list of winners:

https://www.grammy.com/grammys/news/2019-grammy-awards-complete-nominees-and-winners-list