For the second consecutive year, black hip-hop artists are leading the pack — but observers are still wondering if nominations success can translate into wins. – Grande backs out –But controversy was threatening the gala before it even began, with a number of superstars declining to take part in the show’s glitzy concert portion. Untouchable pop star Ariana Grande — who dropped her highly anticipated album “Thank U, Next” just before the Grammys — slammed producer Ken Ehrlich over her decision not to perform, suggested he was “lying” about her readiness. This year, five of the eight Album of the Year nominations went to female artists: Cardi B, Carlile, Monae, R&B prodigy H.E.R. Songstress Alicia Keys is set to host Sunday’s ceremony — the first woman to do so in 14 years.

Source: Punch February 10, 2019 06:22 UTC