At the forthcoming 2012 Grammy ceremony, which will take place on February 12, there are five nominees for "Best Pop Duo/Group Performance."
Nominees
These nominated performers include veteran singer Tony Bennett and Amy Winehouse for "Body and Soul," The Black Keys for "Dearest," Coldplay for "Paradise," Foster the People for "Pumped Up Kicks," as well as Maroon 5 and Christina Aguilera's vocal collaboration "Moves Like Jagger."
Analysis
"Body and Soul" is a track on Tony Bennett's Duets II album, where he collaborates with the late Amy Winehouse. Bennett is a beloved American icon whose latest record went to the top of the Billboard 200 Charts, which marked the first time in his illustrious music career to accomplish such a feature. This was long overdue, and at 85, Bennett proves that he gets only better with age. His duet with Winehouse was the sultry songstress' final recording prior to her death this past July, and it showcased her raw talent.
Foster the People's "Pumped Up Kicks" was a smash hit on radio, reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts, meanwhile The Black Key's "Dearest" is a short, yet impressive track on the Buddy Holly tribute album entitled Raves on Buddy Holly.
Maroon 5's "Moves Like Jagger" (featuring Christina Aguilera) was also a commercial hit, peaking at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts for four non-consecutive weeks. Finally, Coldplay's Paradise was a Top 15 hit.
Prediction
All in all, the unstoppable and sentimental favorites to win this category are Tony Bennett and Amy Winehouse! Their soulful collaboration and their music video was praised by their peers in the industry and fans worldwide.
Had it been any other year, Foster the People's "Pumped Up Kicks" and Maroon 5 and Christina Aguilera's "Moves Like Jagger," may have been serious contenders for the trophy; however, there is no room for surprises for the "Best Pop Duo/Group Performance" Grammy race.
It is the least that the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) could do to pay their respects and a moving homage to the astonishing music career of Amy Winehouse who died at the young age of 27, as well as to Tony Bennett for scoring a comeback with his latest CD. Consider this one a lock.
To learn more about this year's Grammy nominees, visit their official website.
Markos Papadatos - Markos Papadatos holds over six years journalism experience, authoring over 700 articles, many of which are feature profile interviews.
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