Words by Ime Ekpo
JAY-Z’s contributions to the music industry and Hip-Hop culture have earned him the 2018 Salute to Industry Icons Grammy Award, presented by The Recording Academy and Clive Davis. Hov will be presented with the award at Clive Davis’ annual pre-ceremony gala at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel on the night prior to the ceremony, Jan. 27.
2017 is filled with massive turnouts for the Hip-Hop legend. The “Smile” rapper showcased his ability to craft a collection of melodies and conserve his lyrical expertise with his return album, 4:44. He was the executive producer of a praiseworthy documentary based on the story of Kalief Browder. In addition, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, becoming the first rapper to do so, along with a sealed $200 million 10-year touring deal with Live Nation.
JAY-Z’s iconic exterior is evident in his business endeavors, charity work, and most notably all over the globe, his deeds on the mic. “JAY-Z is a quintessential icon and I couldn’t be happier and more excited to share the evening with him,” Davis raves via statement. “What a night this will be!”
The president of The Recording Academy, Neil Portnow, expressed his excitement about the Industry Icons Award honoree, “We are absolutely thrilled and delighted to honor JAY-Z with this year’s Salute to Industry Icons Grammy Award. His contributions as an industry trailblazer and music visionary only begin to touch on the tremendous impact he’s made both in entertainment and beyond. Jay-Z also embodies the vibrant spirit of New York City and we couldn’t imagine a more fitting honoree as we return to Manhattan for this year’s Grammy Awards.”
