The first-ever Ray Charles “Architect of Sound” Award will be given to Jonathan Michael Batiste, an American singer, songwriter, musician, composer, bandleader, television personality, and actor who caused a stir with his moving performance of the American National Anthem during the Super Bowl.
The Grammy Museum announced on Thursday that the ceremony would take place at the Grammy Hall of Fame Gala.
The award, which strengthens the museum’s ties to the Ray Charles Foundation, will be given out during the May 16 event at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles.
The statement states that the artiste who receives the honor is one “whose influence echoes across generations.”
This move honors people who, like Charles, make a lasting impact on music and culture, redefine originality, and transcend genre.
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The recipient personifies the pioneering spirit of one of music’s greatest architects, whether by innovative sound, ground-breaking creativity, or an uncompromising dedication to creative quality.
The award, which honors an artist whose influence on music exemplifies Charles’ pioneering spirit, was originally given to the multi-Grammy winner and talented pianist.
He will take the stage for two special performances during the evening, which will also feature a lineup of artists to be announced soon.
The event will additionally honor this year’s label honoree, Republic Records.
According to Batiste, “Ray Charles happens to be a beacon and a blueprint for him.
He is a singular example of musical genius, artistic freedom and craft of the highest level that will continue to inspire humanity for generations and stand the test of time.
I am honored to receive this award. It is vitally important to me to carry on our cultural legacy of true artistic greatness and lead the way for generations to come.”
The Grammy Museum president/CEO Michael Sticka also added that:
“Ray Charles was a trailblazing artist whose influence knows no bounds, and Jon Batiste is a true reflection of that legacy. Beyond his immense talent, Jon has been a dedicated partner in advancing the Grammy Museum’s mission to make music education more accessible. Honoring him with the inaugural Ray Charles ‘Architect of Sound’ Award is not just fitting—it’s a celebration of two artists who have shaped the sound of generations.”
Valerie Ervin, President of The Ray Charles Foundation, said:
“Ray Charles was always pushing music forward—blending genres, breaking barriers, and inspiring generations. He would be deeply honored to have his name attached to an award that celebrates artists who share his fearless creativity and dedication to their craft. Jon Batiste embodies that spirit, and The Ray Charles Foundation is proud to join the GRAMMY Museum in recognizing his extraordinary contributions to music.”
Fela Kuti & Afrika 70, Big Star, Clara Ward, Eddie Floyd, Emmylou Harris, Geeshie Wiley, Gloria Estefan & Miami Sound Machine, J.D. Crowe & The New South, Linda Martell, and Luther Vandross are among the legendary recordings that will be honored at the Gala.
Other inducted recordings will include Jay-Z’s “Reasonable Doubt,” Cat Stevens’s “Tea For The Tillerman”, and Santana’s “Supernatural.”
Photo Credit Instagram @jonbatiste
