Ahead of the 2023 GRAMMYs, the Recording Academy’s #GRAMMYsNextGen program (previously known as #GRAMMYsNextUp) has announced its latest class of ambassadors and advisors. These changemakers support the Recording Academy’s efforts to inspire the next generation of musicians and music business professionals.

From professional executives, to songwriters, producers and engineers, the 2023 #GRAMMYsNextGen class includes 23 ambassadors and 12 advisors working across fields and genres.

The Recording Academy’s #GRAMMYsNextGen program was intentionally designed to engage the under-40 music community and recognize the best and brightest power players behind the scenes of the music that drives culture today.

As part of the program, all ambassadors and advisors will attend a power brunch during GRAMMY Week to celebrate, connect with their peers in the field and learn more about Recording Academy membership directly from Kelley Purcell, Vice President of Membership & Industry Relations. 

2023 #GRAMMYsNextGen Executive Ambassadors:

Carl LeGrett (Sr. Director, A&R - Create Music Group)

As Sr. Director of A&R, Carl LeGrett oversees Create Music Group’s Publishing Division which is currently responsible for over $1M in royalty payouts for its artists, producers, and songwriters every month. A 2x Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Power player, he is a recognizable and trusted name within the music industry. In 2022, many of Carl's Create Music Publishing clients contributed to GRAMMY-nominated works including DJ Khaled’s GOD DID, Future’s I NEVER LIKED YOU, Jack Harlow’s Come Home The Kids Miss You and Chris Brown’s BREEZY.

Carter Gregory (VP, A&R – Capitol)

Carter Gregory  began his career as an intern at RX Songs and AAM before working with various songwriters and producers at Milk & Honey. Now Vice President of A&R at Capitol Music Group, his roster includes acts such as FLETCHER, Natalie Jane, Amelia Moore, Duncan Laurence, and more. Most recently, he’s played a critical role in Fletcher’s development which has led her to selling 100k tickets in 2022 and the release of her top 15 Billboard debut album, “Girl Of My Dreams.” He is extremely passionate about representing LGBTQ+ artists and continues to look for ways to uplift and be a voice for the community.

Dylan Bourne (CEO/Founder - Bourne Creatives)

Dylan Bourne is the CEO and Founder of Bourne Creatives, a diversified entertainment and music company that specializes in 360° brand development. With a background of working for elite management companies, labels, and publishers, the Dallas native is uniquely positioned to serve the talent he partners with and manages – including JELEEL!. He empowers clients to establish and maintain thriving businesses through the expert integration of innovative creative and digital strategies.

Dylan Shanks (Founder & CEO - Open Door Management)

Dylan Shanks founded Open Door as a junior at NYU when he first started working with Grammy-nominated artist, Omar Apollo. Since then, he’s guided Omar on multiple world tours (selling over 100k tickets in 2022), stops at every major US festival, 2 Latin GRAMMY nominations, and a nomination for Best New Artist at the 2023 GRAMMYs. Open Door also works with Latin GRAMMY winning / GRAMMY-nominated producer Teo Halm, multi-platinum producer Callan Wong, Oscar Santander, Jackson Shanks, and Hank K.

Erin Larsen (Manager - Opium)

Since 2008, Erin Larsen has dedicated her career to fostering the careers of artists, developing rising acts into global powerhouses. Throughout her career working at WME, MSG, CAA, and Paradigm, she’s worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Mary J Blige, Lupe Fiasco, Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, Trippie Redd and Nipsey Hussle. She currently manages Playboi Carti and works across marketing, release, and merch activities for his independent record label Opium (Destroy Lonely, Ken Carson, Homixide Gang, KP Beatz and Art Dealer).

Justin “Meezy” Williams (Owner - Meezy Ent LLC)

Justin “Meezy” Williams’ is founder and owner of Meezy Ent LLC, a promotional company that specializes in marketing, events, music promo, and fundraisers. Meezy originally founded Meezy Ent in his hometown of Stone Mountain, GA as a promotional company for high school and college parties. These parties set the foundation for Slaughter Gang, a joint venture he started with GRAMMY Award-winning artist, 21 Savage, who he also manages.

Krystal Miles (General Manager - APESHIT INC.)

Krystal is general manager of eight-time GRAMMY Award winner Anderson .Paak’s label APESHIT. Miles has been a longtime partner with .Paak, serving on his day-to-day management team. In this role, Miles oversees business development for the label as well as operations of both music and management initiatives.

Lamaar Jaswal (Manager, A&R - SinceThe80s)

Lamaar Jaswal is an A&R professional and artist manager from New York City dedicated to scaling his artists into household names. Some of his clients include SoFaygo (Cactus Jack), Xhulooo (Independent), Bakkwoods (Sony Music Publishing), Wes.t (Sony Music Publishing), & greek (Sparta). Most recently, he’s partnered with SinceThe80’s Barry Hefner to land major deals for SoFaygo – including sync placement in a Lebron James / Beats commercial with "Hell Yeah” and a slew of tour dates with NAV and Trippie Redd.

2023 #GRAMMYsNextGen Executive Advisors:

Cory Litwin (Founder & CEO - 2wenty 2wenty Music Group)

Cory Litwin is the founder and CEO of 2wenty2wenty Music Group, where he has a roster of over 30 writers, producers, and engineers that touch all genres of music. He gained recognition as a formidable manager after building his client Murda Beatz into a superstar producer.  He’s been featured in notable industry lists like Billboard’s 40 under 40 and Hip-Hop Power Players list, Variety's Top 5 Producer Managers and Hitmaker lists.

Ebonie Ward (CEO - 11th&Co)

Ebonie Ward manages some of today’s leading chart-topping musicians and producers, including rappers Future, Gunna, and Flo Milli, as well as producers Turbo and The Playmaker Production Collective. Her devotion and creative thinking has allowed her to go beyond the invisible ceiling for the success of her clients.

Noah Assad (Co-Founder - Rimas Entertainment)

Noah Assad is CEO & Co-Founder of Rimas Entertainment, the independent record label he founded, and manager of the global recording artists including Bad Bunny and Karol G. Rimas Entertainment boasts a roster that includes leading talents in the Latin Music industry such as Eladio Carrión, Arcángel, Jowell & Randy, and Tommy Torres, among others, as well as emerging artists Mora, Corina Smith, Jotaerre, Lyanno, and Marconi Impara.

Tariq Cherif (Co-Founder/CEO - Rolling Loud)

Tariq Cherif is the co-founder of Rolling Loud, the world’s largest hip-hop festival. In 2021, Cherif and Rolling Loud co-founder Matthew Zingler launched their national touring company, Rolling Loud Presents, with artists like Jack Harlow, Rod Wave, Moneybagg Yo, Trippie Redd, and more. With the 2023 festival season approaching, Cherif is focused on making Rolling Loud a household name, expanding and optimizing their content creation efforts, and continuing to grow Rolling Loud as an international brand with shows spanning the globe.

Tyler Arnold (President - Mercury Records)

Since joining Republic Records in 2014, Tyler Arnold has signed/worked closely with Post Malone, super producer Metro Boomin, Bo Burnham, James Blake, Clairo, Chelsea Cutler and rising talent Jeremy Zucker. The projects he's worked on have sold over 100 million singles and over 100 billion streams. They have also received 9 GRAMMY and 6 Emmy nominations as well as an Academy Award nomination.

2023 #GRAMMYsNextGen Producer Ambassadors:

ATL Jacob (Producer - Future, Drake, Lil Baby, Kodak Black, Lil Durk)

Best known by his stage name ATL Jacob, 23-year-old Jacob Canady is a rapper and entrepreneur from Atlanta, GA. He began producing music in the 9th grade, and at the age of 17, he had the opportunity to meet hip-hop sensation Future. That meeting quickly earned ATL Jacob a seat as the in-house producer for Future’s record label, Freebandz. He has since produced records for a long list of hip-hop luminaries including Drake, Moneybagg Yo, Kodak Black, Lil Durk, Lil Baby, and many more.

NOVA WAV (Producer - Beyoncé, Rihanna, DJ Khaled, Ariana Grande)

Nova Wav is a GRAMMY–winning producing and songwriting duo composed of Denisia “Blu June” Andrews and Brittany “Chi” Coney. Over the course of their career, Nova Wav have written and produced tracks and albums for artists including Beyoncé, Rihanna, DJ Khaled, Ariana Grande, Jay-Z, Saweetie, Nicki Minaj, Teyana Taylor, H.E.R, Kehlani and more. Most recently, the duo co-wrote and co-produced on Beyoncé's “Renaissance” and Jazmine Sullivan's "Pick Up Your Feelings," for which she won a “Best R&B Performance” GRAMMY.

Ojivolta (Producer - Ye, Lil Nas X, Justin Bieber, Shawn Mendes)

Ojivolta is a songwriting and producing duo comprised of Mark Williams and Raul Cubina. They are best known for producing 19 tracks on Ye’s DONDA, “Industry Baby” by Lil Nas X, Halsey's "Graveyard", Justin Bieber's "Anyone", Shawn Mendes's "If I Can't Have You", and executive producing Jon Bellion's "The Human Condition" and “Glory Sound Prep.” They have also worked with The Kid Laroi, Jay-Z, Playboi Carti, Baby Keem, Pusha T, Fivio Foreign, Nicki Minaj, John Legend, Half Alive, Charlotte Lawrence, Christina Aguilera, Demi Lovato, and Selena Gomez.

Tay Keith (Producer - Drake, Travis Scott, Yo Gotti, Moneybagg Yo)

Brytavious Keith Chambers, better known by his stage name Tay Keith, is a GRAMMY-nominated record producer from Memphis, Tennessee. He became a hometown hero for producing tracks by popular Memphis rappers like Yo Gotti, Blac Youngsta, Moneybagg Yo, and more. Keith’s biggest hit to date, Travis Scott and Drake’s “SICKO MODE,” peaked at No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The multi-platinum release was also nominated for Best Rap Song at the 61st GRAMMY Awards in 2019.

Tejiri Akpoghene (Producer - TEMS, Future, Drake, Oxlade, Walshy Fire)

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Tejiri Akpoghene is a multi-platinum artist, songwriter and producer. Since discovering his talent in music production at the age of 14, he has dedicated himself to developing his craft. He has produced numerous songs for TEMS including the smash hit “Higher.” He most recently co-produced and co-wrote Future, Drake & TEMS’ single “WAIT FOR U,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

2023 #GRAMMYsNextGen Producer Advisors:

Carter Lang (Producer)

A multi-instrumentalist producer, Carter Lang co-wrote and produced Post Malone & Swae Lee’s single “Sunflower” which is the most certified RIAA single of all time, at 17x platinum. A core collaborator of SZA, Carter co-wrote and produced 13 tracks of her new album SOS, is credited on 10 songs of SZA’s debut album, CTRL, and "Kiss Me More", which earned a GRAMMY for “Song Of The Year” in 2022. He also executive produced Omar Apollo’s latest album Ivory and has worked with artists such as Rosalía, Chance The Rapper, Camilla Cabello, Lil Nas X, Jhene Aiko, A$AP Rocky, Rihanna, Dominic Fike, Baby Keem, PinkPantheress, Gracie Abrams, and Kali Uchis.

Murda Beatz (Producer - Drake, Polo G, Migos, Nicki Minaj, Travis Scott)

Murda Beats is a GRAMMY-winning producer that has worked with some of the most prolific artists of the 2010s and today, including Drake, Travis Scott, Cardi B, Ariana Grande, Migos, and more. Alongside his work with chart-topping artists, Murda has released two solo projects - 2016’s Keep God First, and 2018’s Bless Yo Trap with rapper Smokepurpp, along with most recent single “One Shot” feat. Blxst & Wale.  He also been named one of the Top 5 Writers on the Billboard Songwriters Chart, had the highest selling drum kit on Splice with the “Bandemic” Splice pack, launched a plug-in called “Murda Melodies” on SlateDigital.com, released two collectible toys with KidRobot, created a meditation playlist on the Headspace app, sold out a “Baby Murda” NFT drop in under 24 hours, and became co-founder of beverage company Psychedelic Water.

Rodney Jerkins (Producer - Destiny's Child, Toni Braxton, Mary J. Blige, Whitney Houston)

Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins is an internationally recognized producer responsible for over 300 million+ record sales to date. Over the past 30 years, Rodney has produced chart-topping R&B and pop standards by artists such as Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Brandy, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, Sam Smith, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, Destiny's Child, Gwen Stefani, Black Eyed Peas, TLC, The Spice Girls, Kelly Clarkson, Maroon 5, SZA, H.E.R., and countless others.

2023 #GRAMMYsNextGen Songwriter Ambassadors:

A1 LaFlare (Songwriter - Nicki Minaj, Beyoncé, Lizzo, Saweetie)

A1 LaFlare is a Grammy-nominated artist, songwriter, & producer from Atlanta. Her talents have caught the eyes of some of the leading industry players, and since then she has been collaborating with the biggest acts in the music industry.

Dougie F (Songwriter - Travis Scott, Drake, Future, SZA, Jack Harlow)

Dougie F is a songwriter, artist and producer who co-wrote two Billboard Hot 100 No.1 songs in 2022. In 2021, he signed a publishing deal with Warner and Cactus Jack. Since then, he’s been credited alongside Travis Scott, Drake, Future, SZA, Jack Harlow, Giveon and Don Toliver.

Fridayy (Songwriter - DJ Khaled, Chris Brown, Lil Durk, Bryson Tiller)

Fridayy is a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Philadelphia, PA . His breakthrough arrived in 2022 as a feature on DJ Khaled’s “GOD DID,” featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, John Legend, and Jay-Z. He has also written and produced for Chris Brown’s tenth studio album, Breezy (“Wheels Fall Off” featuring Lil Durk and Capella Gray and “Need You Right Here” featuring Bryson Tiller). As Fridayy evolves as a singer, songwriter, and producer, he continues working with today’s music icons and upcoming stars, including Meek Mill, Lil Baby, and Don Toliver.

Nija (Songwriter - Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga)

Nija Charles is a GRAMMY-nominated songwriter, artist, and record producer. She has earned two no. 1's on Billboard Hot 100 and was featured on Forbes "30 under 30" list.  Her work with artists such as Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Ariana Grande, Post Malone, Lady Gaga, Travis Scott, 21 Savage, Chris Brown and Drake has secured her position as a creative powerhouse and tastemaker within the culture.

Tommy Parker (Songwriter)

Tommy Parker is a GRAMMY-nominated, multi-platinum producer and songwriter who has worked with J. Cole, Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, Janet Jackson, Young Thug, and more. His vocals on J. Cole’s “i n t e r l u d e” helped propel the single to a No. 8 debut on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and he most recently worked on Alicia Keys and the Backstreet Boys’ respective Christmas albums in 2022.

2023 #GRAMMYsNextGen Songwriter Advisors:

Jozzy (Songwriter - Madonna, Beyoncé, SZA, Mary J. Blige, Latto)

Jozzy is a multi-platinum singer and songwriter, known for penning notable hits for artists like Madonna, Beyoncé, SZA, Summer Walker, Mary J. Blige, Latto and more. The Memphis, TN native first gained notoriety in 2018 for writing the GRAMMY Award- winning single “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Rae Cyrus. In 2022, JOZZY was announced as the first signee to Love Records, an all-R&B label launched by legendary producer and music mogul Sean Combs. She is nominated at the 65th GRAMMY Awards for her work on Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” and Mary J. Blige’s “Good Morning Gorgeous.”

Tommy Brown (Songwriter - Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, The Weeknd, Travis Scott)

Tommy Brown is a GRAMMY-winning producer who has produced and written tracks for artists including Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, The Weeknd, Jennifer Lopez, The Black Eyed Peas, Selena Gomez, Black Pink, Demi Lovato, Juice Wrld, Chris Brown, Travis Scott, and more. In 2018, Brown teamed up with industry titan Lucian Grainge to create the Champagne Therapy Music Group label under Universal Music Group. Brown also created a team of his own and launched his independent publishing company Champagne Therapy Music Publishing and since then has signed over 20 creatives ranging from singers, songwriters, and producers. Since its launch, CTMP has had multiple Billboard Hot 100 records charted at No. 1, and has scored chart topping songs with Bad Bunny, Ariana Grande, Drake, the Weeknd, BTS, John Legend, and more.

2023 #GRAMMYsNextGen Engineer Ambassadors:

Angie Randisi (Engineer - Lil Baby, Diddy, Young Thug, Tyga, 42 Dugg)

Angie Randisi is a multi-platinum & GRAMMY-nominated recording/mixing engineer. Angie got her start working at SOTA studios working under Noah “40” Shebib, where she worked across numerous projects within the OVO sound camp. Since then, she has gone on to record and work with artists such as Lil Baby, PartyNextDoor, Diddy, Tyga, Young Thug, 42 Dugg, and more. Angie is currently working on empowering more female engineers, producers and artists in the music industry.

Bainz (Engineer - Young Thug, Gunna)

Hailing from New Delhi, India, Bainz has become the go to mixer and engineer for Young Thug and his label Young Stoner Life Records. He has engineered and mixed some of the most defining global hip hop hits and worked with some of the most celebrated artists of this generation, including Future, Nipsey Hussle, Estelle, Trippie Redd, Mac Miller, Sia, Juice WRLD, Jay Sean, Prateek Kuhad, Rich The Kid, Eric Nam, Shy Glizzy, Offset, Quavo, Machine Gun Kelly, James Fauntelroy, and more.

Jason “Cheese” Goldberg (Engineer - NBA Youngboy)

Jason “Cheese” Goldberg is the primary engineer to NBA Youngboy. His number one objective has always been to understand the wants and needs of the artist sonically and find a way to bring that vision to life.

Rob Bisel (Engineer - SZA, Kendrick Lamar, Doja Cat, Harry Styles)

Rob Bisel is a GRAMMY-nominated producer, mixer, and engineer based in Los Angeles. He got his start engineering for Rick Rubin at Shangri La Studios, where he worked with a wide range of artists including Harry Styles, Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, Santana, and more. After his time at Shangri La, Bisel went on to work with SZA and helped craft her album SOS for the last 3 years. Bisel has also received GRAMMY nominations for his engineering / mixing work on Kendrick Lamar’s Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers and Doja Cat’s Planet Her.

Teezio (Engineer - Lil Nas X, Jack Harlow)

Patrizio “Teezio” Pigliapoco is a 44x platinum, four-time GRAMMY-nominated mix engineer based in Los Angeles, CA. For over a decade, he’s worked with notable artists like Juicy J, Chris Brown, Lil Nas X, Jack Harlow, Gunna, Coi Leroy, and more. Through collaborations with brands like Autotune, PMC, Engineears, and countless others, he’s continued to prioritize educating the next generation of engineers year after year.

2023 #GRAMMYsNextGen Engineer Advisors:

Fabian Marasciullo (Engineer - Lil Wayne)

Fabian Marasciullo has been working in music since the age of 13. In his 25-year career, Fabian has engineered over 400 platinum & gold-certified records, including 3 songs that have amassed diamond status. His work on Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter 3 earned him the 2009 GRAMMY for Best Rap Album.

Josh Gudwin (Engineer - Justin Bieber)

Four-time GRAMMY winner Josh Gudwin has served as Justin Bieber’s go-to producer and engineer for over a decade. Working as Bieber’s vocal producer and engineer since 2010, Gudwin has logged more than two dozen Top 20 hits with Bieber including the No. 1 songs “Despacito (Justin Bieber Remix),” “Love Yourself,” “What Do U Mean,” “Sorry” and “Stuck with You.” He's also worked on recent hits like Kid Laroi’s “Stay” and Dua Lipa’s “Levitating.” Over the course of his time with Bieber, Gudwin organically moved into his position as one of the album producers, composer, A&R and primary mixer for Justice (Triple Chucks Deluxe). 

Six years after her last solo studio album, Beyoncé returned to the music industry with a bang thanks to RENAISSANCE. In homage to her late Uncle Johnny, she created a work of art inspired by the sounds of disco and house that wasn't just culturally impactful — it was history-making.

At the 2023 GRAMMYs, RENAISSANCE won Best Dance/Electronic Album. Marking Beyoncé's 32nd golden gramophone, the win gave the superstar the record for most gramophones won by an individual act.

In this episode of GRAMMY Rewind, revisit the historic moment Queen Bey took the stage to accept her record-breaking GRAMMY at the 65th Annual GRAMMY Awards.

"Thank you so much. I'm trying not to be too emotional," Beyoncé said at the start of her acceptance speech. "I'm just trying to receive this night."

With a deep breath, she began to list her praises that included God, her family, and the Recording Academy for their continued support throughout her career. 

"I'd like to thank my Uncle Johnny, who is not here, but he's here in spirit," Beyoncé proclaimed. "I'd like to thank the queer community for your love and inventing this genre."

Watch the video above for Beyoncé's full speech for Best Dance/Electronic Album at the 2023 GRAMMYs. Check back to GRAMMY.com for more new episodes of GRAMMY Rewind. 

Tune into the 2024 GRAMMYs on Sunday, Feb. 4, airing live on the CBS Television Network (8-11:30 p.m. LIVE ET/5-8:30 p.m. LIVE PT) and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).

A Timeline Of Beyoncé's GRAMMY Moments, From Her First Win With Destiny's Child to Making History With 'Renaissance'

Since the start of her career, four-time GRAMMY winner Lizzo has been making music that radiates positive energy. Her Record Of The Year win for "About Damn Time" at the 2023 GRAMMYs proved that being true to yourself and kind to one another always wins.

Travel back to revisit the moment Lizzo won her award in the coveted category in this episode of GRAMMY Rewind. 

"Um, huh?" Lizzo exclaimed at the start of her acceptance speech. "Let me tell you something. Me and Adele are having a good time, just enjoying ourselves and rooting for our friends. So, this is an amazing night. This is so unexpected."

Lizzo kicked off her GRAMMY acceptance speech by acknowledging Prince's influence on her sound. "When we lost Prince, I decided to dedicate my life to making positive music," she said. "This was at a time when positive music and feel-good music wasn't mainstream at that point and I felt very misunderstood. I felt on the outside looking in. But I stayed true to myself because I wanted to make the world a better place so I had to be that change."

As tracks like "Good as Hell" and "Truth Hurts" scaled the charts, she noticed more body positivity and self-love anthems from other artists. "I'm just so proud to be a part of it," she cheered.

Most importantly, Lizzo credited staying true to herself despite the pushback for her win. "I promise that you will attract people in your life who believe in you and support you," she said in front of a tearful audience that included Beyoncé and Taylor Swift in standing ovation, before giving a shout-out to her team, family, partner and producers on the record, Blake Slatkin and Ricky Reed. 

Watch the video above for Lizzo's complete acceptance speech for Record Of The Year at the 2023 GRAMMYs. Check back to GRAMMY.com for more new episodes of GRAMMY Rewind, and be sure to tune into the 2024 GRAMMYs on Sunday, Feb. 4, airing live on the CBS Television Network (8-11:30 p.m. LIVE ET/5-8:30 p.m. LIVE PT) and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).

10 Must-See Moments From The 2023 GRAMMYs

After a wildly successful debut and sophomore record, you'd think it was impossible for Harry Styles to top himself. Yet, his third album, Harry's House, proved to be his most prolific yet.

The critically acclaimed project first birthed Styles' record-breaking, chart-topping single, "As It Was," then landed three more top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 with "Late Night Talking," "Music for a Sushi Restaurant" and "Matilda." The album and "As It Was" scored Styles six nominations at the 2023 GRAMMYs — and helped the star top off his massive Harry's House era with an Album Of The Year win.

In this episode of GRAMMY Rewind, revisit Styles' big moment from last year's ceremony, which was made even more special by his superfan, Reina Lafantaisie. Host Trevor Noah (who will return as emcee for the 2024 GRAMMYs) handed the mic to Lafantaisie to announce Styles as the winner, and the two shared a celebratory hug before Styles took the mic.

"I've been so, so inspired by every artist in this category," said Styles, who was up against other industry titans like Beyoncé, Adele, Lizzo and Coldplay. "On nights like tonight, it's important for us to remember that there is no such thing as 'best' in music. I don't think any of us sit in the studio, making decisions based on what will get us [an award]."

Watch the video above to see Harry Styles' complete acceptance speech alongside his collaborators Kid Harpoon and Tyler Johnson. Check back to GRAMMY.com for more new episodes of GRAMMY Rewind, and be sure to tune into the 2024 GRAMMYs on Sunday, Feb. 4, airing live on the CBS Television Network (8 -11:30 p.m. LIVE ET/5-8:30 p.m. LIVE PT) and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).

Here Are The Album Of The Year Nominees At The 2024 GRAMMYs

This year marks the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, a cultural movement that rose from humble beginnings in New York to fuel a worldwide phenomenon.    

Scholars may debate whether its roots precede Aug. 11, 1973, when DJ Kool Herc debuted his "merry-go-round" technique of playing funk breaks back-to-back to a roomful of teenagers in the Bronx. However, there’s little doubt that this event sparked a flowering of activity throughout the borough, inspiring DJs, breakdancers, graffiti artists, and, eventually, pioneering MCs like Coke La Rock and Cowboy.  

The music industry eventually caught wind of the scene, leading to formative 1979 singles like the Fatback Band’s "King Tim III" — the funk band featured MC and hypeman Timothy "King Tim III" Washington — and the big one: the Sugarhill Gang’s "Rapper’s Delight."   

Today, rap music is the most popular genre of music, led by superstars such as Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Future, Eminem, and many others. Despite its massive success, many artists retain their strong ties to communities of color, reflecting the genre’s origins as a form rooted in the streets. 

To mark hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, press play on the playlist below, or head to Amazon Music, Apple Music and Pandora for a crash course in this quintessential stateside artform — further proof of the genius of Black American music.

At the 65th Annual GRAMMY Awards, the Recording Academy showcased the breadth of hip-hop's influence via a star-studded, generation-spanning performance. Curated by Questlove and featuring legends such as Grandmaster Flash, Run-D.M.C., Ice-T, Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliott, Nelly, and GloRilla, the 2023 GRAMMYs' hip-hop tribute showed that hip-hop remains one of the most exciting music cultures — and will likely remain so for the next 50 years. 

A Timeline Of Hip-Hop's Development 

1973 – On Aug. 11, 1973, Clive "Kool Herc" Campbell DJs a back-to-school party organized by his sister, Cindy Campbell, in the rec room at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx, New York. The event is widely considered to be the beginning of hip-hop culture.    

1979 – Longtime R&B star and producer Sylvia Robinson launches Sugar Hill Records with her husband, Joe. She discovers their first act in New Jersey, a trio of rapping teenagers — Wonder Mike, Big Bank Hank, and Master Gee — and brands the Sugarhill Gang. The Gang’s first single, "Rapper’s Delight," sells millions of copies and becomes the first global rap hit.    

1982 – Co-written by Duke Bootee and Melle Mel and produced by Clifton "Jiggs" Chase, Grandmaster Flash & the Furious Five’s hit single "The Message" becomes a turning point in the genre. Bootee and Melle Mel’s stark descriptions of poverty signal to fans and critics that hip-hop is capable of more than just party music.    

1984 – Russell Simmons’ Rush Management organizes Fresh Fest, a groundbreaking arena tour featuring hot rap acts like Run-D.M.C., Whodini, Kurtis Blow, the Fat Boys, and Newcleus as well as b-boy crews such as the Dynamic Breakers. Held during the next two years, it signifies hip-hop’s growing popularity.    

1986 – After bringing frat-boy chaos as the opening act on Madonna’s Virgin Tour, Def Jam understudies the Beastie Boys collaborate with producer Rick Rubin on Licensed to Ill. Spawning the hit single "Fight for Your Right," the album is certified diamond in 2015. 

Beastie Boys in 1987 | Lynn Goldsmith/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images

1987 – Thanks to a remix by the late DJ/producer Cameron Paul, rap trio Salt-N-Pepa get teens everywhere twerking — and worry parents and school administrators — with the electro-bass classic, "Push It."   

1988 – Public Enemy release their second album, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back. Reportedly featuring over 100 samples and focused on Chuck D, Flavor Flav and Professor Griff’s revolutionary lyrics, it’s often cited as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.    

1989 – DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince win the first hip-hop GRAMMY Award for Best Rap Performance for their 1988 hit single, "Parents Just Don’t Understand."  

1988 – Thanks to lyrics criticizing law enforcement and depicting raw life in Compton, California, N.W.A spark national controversy with their influential second album, Straight Outta Compton.    

1991 – Ice-T appears in New Jack City, becoming one of the first rappers to headline a major Hollywood film. That same year, he appears on the Lollapalooza tour with his metal group, Body Count, and performs an early version of "Cop Killer." The song becomes a flashpoint in the 1992 presidential election.    

1993 – Wu-Tang Clan release their debut album, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). With nine members led by rapper/producer the RZA, the highly unique Staten Island-based collective spawned dozens of solo albums and affiliated acts over the following decades.   

1996 – Naughty by Nature earn the first GRAMMY Award for Best Rap Album with their third album, Poverty’s Paradise. The 1995 set includes a major radio hit in "Feel Me Flow."    

1996 – After dominating most of 1996 with his fourth album, the diamond-certified double album All Eyez on Me, 2Pac is killed in Las Vegas. The unsolved murder of one of the greatest rappers of all time remains a watershed moment in music culture.   

1997 – Days before the release of his diamond-certified second album, Life After Death, the Notorious B.I.G. is killed in Los Angeles. The slaying of two of hip-hop’s biggest artists prompts soul-searching across the music industry and inspired Biggie’s friend, Puff Daddy, to release the GRAMMY Award-winning hit, "I'll Be Missing You."  

1997 – After writing and producing hits for MC Lyte and Aaliyah, Missy Elliott debuts as a solo artist with Supa Dupa Fly. With production help from Timbaland and kinetic music videos, Elliott establishes herself as one of the most innovative acts of the era. 

Missy Elliott | Paul Drinkwater/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images 

1998 – After scoring multi-platinum hits with the Fugees, Lauryn Hill strikes out on her own with The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. The diamond-certified album earns her several GRAMMY Awards, including Album Of The Year.    

1999 – Dr. Dre releases 2001, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential rap producers ever. The album features numerous collaborators, including longtime homie Snoop Dogg and rising lyricist Eminem.    

2001 – On Sept. 11, Jay-Z releases his sixth album, The Blueprint. It becomes a career highlight for the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame rapper, and a breakout moment for rising producers Just Blaze and Kanye West.    

2003 – Hit-making duo OutKast split their double album Speakerboxxx/The Love Below into separate sides for Big Boi and Andre 3000 — the latter focusing on singing instead of rapping. Their fresh approach results in a diamond-certified project and a GRAMMY for Album Of The Year.    

2008 – Lil Wayne mania peaks with Tha Carter III, which sells over 1 million copies in its first week and earns him a GRAMMY for Best Rap Album.    

2010 – Nicki Minaj releases Pink Friday. The hit album makes her a rare female rap star during a dearth of prominent women voices in the genre.    

2017 – By landing a Top 10 Billboard hit with "XO Tour Llif3" and topping the Billboard 200 with Luv Is Rage 2, Lil Uzi Vert signifies the rise of internet-fueled trends like "SoundCloud rap" and "emo rap."   

2017 – With his fourth album Damn., Kendrick Lamar not only wins a GRAMMY for Best Rap Album, but he also becomes the first rap artist to win a Pulitzer Prize for Music, leading to the fanciful nickname "Pulitzer Kenny."    

2018 – Cardi B releases her debut album Invasion of Privacy, scoring Billboard No. 1 hits such as "Bodak Yellow" and "I Like It." As the best-selling female rap album of the 2010s, the LP won Best Rap Album at the 61st GRAMMY Awards in 2019, making Cardi the first solo female rapper to win the Category.  

Cardi B at the 61st GRAMMY Awards | Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Recording Academy 

2020 – In early 2020, rising star Pop Smoke is killed in Los Angeles. Months later, his posthumous debut album, Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon, tops the charts, signifying the rise of drill as a major force in hip-hop culture.  

2021 – At the 63rd Annual GRAMMY Awards in 2021, the Recording Academy introduced the Best Melodic Rap Performance Category, formerly known as the Best Rap/Sung Performance Category, to "represent the inclusivity of the growing hybrid performance trends within the rap genre." 

2023 - At the 2023 GRAMMY Awards, seven-time GRAMMY winner Dr. Dre became the recipient of the inaugural Dr. Dre Global Impact Award for his multitude of achievements through his innovative, multi-decade career. Dre was first presented with the award at the Black Music Collective's Recording Academy Honors ceremony. 

50 Artists Who Changed Rap: Jay-Z, The Notorious B.I.G., Dr. Dre, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem & More