The 2021 Grammys have been postponed until March 14 amid the recent spike in coronavirus cases, a rep for the ceremony confirmed to Variety on Tuesday. The ceremony was initially expected to take place on Jan. 31 at the Los Angeles Staples Center, but was then announced to take place “in and around Downtown Los Angeles” with either a limited or no audience.
“The deteriorating COVID situation in Los Angeles, with hospital services being overwhelmed, ICUs having reached capacity, and new guidance from state and local governments have all led us to conclude that postponing our show was the right thing to do,” a rep told Variety in a statement. “Nothing is more important than the health and safety of those in our music community and the hundreds of people who work tirelessly on producing the show. We want to thank all of the talented artists, the staff, our vendors and especially this year’s nominees for their understanding, patience and willingness to work with us as we navigate these unprecedented times.”
Trevor Noah will be the host of music’s biggest night, with Beyoncé reclaiming her place as most-nominated artist of the year with nine nominations. Roddy Ricch, Dua Lipa, and Taylor Swift also earned six nods each, while Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes scored five nominations for her solo debut. Chika and Megan Thee Stallion’s nods for best new artist and BTS making history with their nomination for best pop duo/group performance for “Dynamite.”
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Trevor Noah said, “I think as a one-time Grammy nominee, I am the best person to provide a shoulder to all the amazing artists who do not win. Despite the fact that I am extremely disappointed that the Grammys have refused to have me sing or be nominated for best pop album, I am thrilled to be hosting this auspicious event,” Noah told The Hollywood Reporter in a statement. “I think as a one-time Grammy nominee, I am the best person to provide a shoulder to all the amazing artists who do not win on the night because I too know the pain of not winning the award! (This is a metaphorical shoulder, I’m not trying to catch Corona). See you at the 63rd Grammys!”
In a separate statement, Recording Academy Chair and Interim President/CEO Harvey Mason Jr. said, “With a knack for keeping viewers engaged and entertained, Trevor is the perfect choice to lead us through what’s sure to be an incredible evening full of music, unforgettable moments, unity and inspiration. He is a dynamic host, comedian and personality, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the Grammy stage as host of music’s biggest night for the first time.”