Daughters Criticize Grammy Awards for Lack of Tribute to Late Father
Belafonte’s Daughters Speak Out on In Memoriam Snub
Shari and Gina Belafonte, the late Jamaican-American singer’s daughters, are speaking out against the Grammy Awards for not doing enough to honor their father during the 2024 event.
In Memoriam Snub
In the In Memoriam section, Tina Turner, Tony Bennett, Sinead O’Connor, Clarence Avant, and other notable figures were honored with moving performances by Jon Batiste, Fantasia Barrino, Stevie Wonder, and Annie Lennox.
Batiste sang “The Best Is Yet to Come” while pictures of other musicians who passed away last year appeared on screen behind them, including singer, actor, civil rights activist, and author Harry Belafonte.
Daughters’ Criticism
Both daughters agreed that the “Jump in the Line” singer should have received a special Grammy homage, similar to Tina Turner, Bennett, O’Connor, and Avant.
Shari took to Facebook, stating, “While the folks who had a bit more of a #shoutout on the #GrammyAwards this year were absolutely deserving of accolades, I’m a bit appalled that our father was not included in a #SpecialTribute and I’m not just saying that because he was our father.”
She continued, “#HarryBelafonte was the very FIRST recipient of a platinum record. Was the very FIRST Black man to get an #Emmy. Is one of 20 people to have an #EGOT. Harry is THE one who created #WeAreTheWorld, and yes, I was at the table when he first pitched the idea to Ken Kragen.”
She concluded, “While no doubt, Tony Bennett and Tina Turner were special indeed, Harry contributed far more to society and the music industry than those two put together, in my humble opinion. The Grammys missed a major moment.”
Gina’s Post
Along with criticizing the Grammy Awards, Gina posted a picture of her father on Facebook, saying, “Love @itstonybennett Love @tinaturner Love @sinadeocconor. Why the @recordingacademy Cho see not to do a special tribute to you I will #never understand! So here is my Grammy tribute to you dad! So many winners you’ve mentored! So many winners you shared your stage with. You are the winner @theharrybelafonte and we are better because of your contribution! Belafonte’s career breakthrough album Calypso (1956) was the first million-selling LP by a single artist.”
Conclusion
The daughters’ criticism of the Grammy Awards has sparked a heated debate about the lack of recognition given to Belafonte during the event. Despite his significant contributions to the music industry, Belafonte’s memory was not honored with a special tribute. As his daughters continue to speak out about this issue, it remains to be seen if the Grammy Awards will take action to correct this oversight.
FAQs
Q: When did Harry Belafonte pass away?
A: According to veteran spokesperson Ken Sunshine, Belafonte passed away in April 2023 from congestive heart disease.
Q: What was Harry Belafonte’s most popular song?
A: Belafonte popularized calypso music with his song “Day-O,” also known as “The Banana Boat Song.”
Q: What is the significance of Harry Belafonte’s album Calypso?
A: Belafonte’s career breakthrough album Calypso (1956) was the first million-selling LP by a single artist.