The Grammys 2023: Best Global Music Performance

Again, I never heard any of the songs in this category before this week. I’ve only heard of two of these performers before.

“Udhero Na,” Arooj Aftab and Anoushka Shankar. Shankar is the daughter of sitar royalty Ravi Shankar and a virtuoso in her own right. Arooj Aftab won the Grammy for Best Global Music Performance last year for “Mohabbat”:

“Gimme Love,” Matt B and Eddy Kenzo:

“Last Last,” Matt B and Eddy Kenzo:

“Neva Bow Down,” Rocky Dawuni featuring Blvk H3ro:

“Bayethe,” Wouter Kellerman (flautist), Zakes Bantwini (keyboardist), and Nomcebo Zikode (vocalist):

The musicianship in “Udhero Na” is phenomenal, but the intro is two minutes long, and keeps us waiting for Arooj Aftab’s voice. Despite the lovely rhythms in “Gimme Love,” the lyrics and melody are annoyingly monotonous. I love the syncopated rhythms in “Last Last.” I like the reggae vibe in “Neva Bow Down” and I like the message (but I find the video very intimidating).

In my opinion, “Bayethe” has it all-a polished performance, beautiful blend of instruments, great rhythm, and nothing that detracts from all that. I think “Bayethe” deserves the Grammy.

Now it’s your turn. Which song do you think should win the Grammy for Best Global Music Performance, and why? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Originally published at http://arhtisticlicense.com on January 28, 2023.