Alicia Keys is back. The songstress will return for the second year in a row to host the 62nd annual Grammy Awards in January, the Recording Academy announced Wednesday.
“At first, I did think last year was a one-time thing, but when the opportunity came back around, there was no question about returning as host,” Keys said in a statement. “Last year was such a powerful experience for me. Not only did I feel the love in the room, but I felt it from around the world, and it confirmed the healing and unifying power of music.”
Only two other women have hosted the Grammys multiple times: Ellen DeGeneres in 1996 and 1997 and Rosie O’Donnell in 1999 and 2000.
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Last year, in addition to hosting, Keys performed a breathtaking medley of “Songs I Wish I Wrote,” including Scott Joplin’s “The Maple Leaf Rag,” Robert Flack’s “Killing Me Softly,” Kings of Leon’s “Use Somebody” and Lauren Hill’s “Doo-Wop (That Thing).”
Since her debut album in 2001, Keys, who was born in Hell’s Kitchen, has been nominated for 29 Grammys and won 15 of them, making her the second-most decorated host behind Paul Simon (25 nominations, 16 trophies).
NEW YORK DAILY NEWS
