2019 Grammy Watch: Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
CMN’s team of music writers is previewing the 2019 Grammy Awards. The 61st annual ceremony will take place Sunday, February 10 in Los Angeles. You can see all of our Grammy coverage here.
Christina Aguilera Ft. Demi Lovato: “Fall in Line” – This became a feminist anthem following the #Metoo movement, definitely covering some griping topics for female independence. But it also flips the misconceptions of feminism into a man hater vibe.
The Backstreet Boys: “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” – The Backstreet Boys: Boyband turned manband comes back with their first pop song to hit the charts since 2007 — and their first release in nearly five years. This has the potential to win. Boybands have been stealing hearts for years, and they continue to captivate. They bring out a song very reminiscent of their youth.
Tony Bennett and Diana Krall: ”S Wonderful” – This was originally written for the 1927 musical Funny Face. Bennett and Krall, who have previously performed duets together, this is their first full album together also in tribute to the late George Gershwin. This song has much more of a jazz feel than any note to pop, but it’s airy and bright and hones in on that Christmas feel. Beautiful but I’m not sure it’s strong enough to hold it’s own in comparison to popularity with other nominees.
Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga: “Shallow” – Gaga said this tune was “one of the most authentic things I’ve ever written.” It comes from the original soundtrack of A Star is Born and became a fan favorite. So much so that Gaga even used this as an encore to her own tour. The song showcases heartache, strength and courage.
Maroon 5 Ft. Cardi B: “Girls Like You” – For Maroon 5, this song became their 4th #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Another nod here to the #Metoo movement, especially after the release of the video. This was the last song to be put on the album, kind of an afterthought that turned out to be one of the biggest songs of the year.
Justin Timberlake Ft. Chris Stapleton: “Say Something” – Timberlake talked about how this song just “fell out of him.” Stapleton asked what he wanted to write about and Timberlake says, “Honestly, I want to say something, but I don’t want to get caught up in the rhythm of it.” The song was born right there. Sometimes it’s just that easy.
Zedd, Maren Morris, and Grey: “The Middle” – DJ and producer Zedd set out to find the perfect person for the part Morris ended up with, and wanted it to be so perfect, 12 other women before Morris tried this song. It’s only fitting that it’s up for a Grammy this year as it debuted at last years ceremony in a Target commercial.
Who Will Win:
Maroon 5 or Zedd. “Girls Like You” has a chance because it crosses two spectrums of pop rock for Maroon 5 and rap for having Cardi B play her part. But as a good, simple and catchy pop song, “The Middle” probably caught the ears of more people.
Who Should Win:
Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga. Hands down this song should win. Even solely on the presentation of Gaga’s voice. The passion given between her and Cooper was electrifying.
