On Tuesday, the Recording Academy announced that R&B star Alicia Keys will be hosting the 2019 Grammy Awards. “I’m so excited to be the master of ceremonies on the biggest night in music and celebrate the creativity, power and magic. I’m especially excited for all the incredible women nominated this year!" she said in a statement, reports the Associated Press. Keys took to her Twitter account to share the news. She posted a link to a Youtube video titled “I’M HOSTING THE 2019 GRAMMYS.”
In the video, fans can watch Keys make the announcement, go to rehearsals, dress fittings and tell her friends and family about her new gig. “Damn, this has got to be such an exciting show this year because of all the female artists and performers,” she says in the video. An experienced Grammy alum, Keys has won a total of 15 Grammys in her career as a musician. While talking to CNN Entertainment , Recording Academy president Neil Portnow said, “Throughout her exciting career, I have watched her become a powerful force within the music industry and beyond. As an artist who speaks to the power of music, we are thrilled to have her on board.” The women nominations include Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Cardi B, and Camila Cabello. Kendrick Lamar and Drake are the top Grammy contenders, earning eight and seven nominations apiece, respectively, while Brandi Carlile is up for six awards. The 2019 Grammy Awards will air on 10 February. (With inputs from The Associated Press)