[CrimsonTide4]

Someone on a listserve just said in regards to Alicia and India being honored: Why?? I just don't feel that they have contributed that much in music that they should be honoured already. Get a second album first, then we'll talk.

My reply to that:
I figure they are probably being honored this early in their career for any of the following

*fresh young talent

*record number of nominations/wins

*instrumentation from both artists

*positive messages in music

*"role model" to women of all ages, but especially our young ladies

I agree that they have not done much to be awarded. We have not even tested their "staying power" but maybe this will serve as motivation to India because if I were her, I would be feeling kind of sh*tty to get so many nominations but no award to show for it although her name got mad publicity in the awards circuit.

I am surprised at the number of musicians being honored this year. In the past what has made it special for me was that they honored people who were doing ordinary things to make a difference, I.e. the doctors who were brothers, the ministers, etc. This year with Alicia, India, Jimmy and Terry, Janet -- there is an overabundance of music. Where are the literary accolades and teaching accolades. I need them to recognize my coworker (Kappa Alpha Psi) for all that he does with the Black males especially but all students overall.

What do you all think?