The Recording Academy® will once again honor music’s finest at the 2025 Special Merit Awards Ceremony, set to take place on February 1 at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre during GRAMMY® Week. Sponsored by Budweiser, this prestigious event celebrates an extraordinary lineup of Lifetime Achievement Award, Trustees Award, and Technical GRAMMY® Award recipients whose contributions have impacted the music industry.
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award honorees include Frankie Beverly, The Clash, Dr. Bobby Jones, Taj Mahal, Prince, Roxanne Shante, and Frankie Valli. Trustees Awards will be presented to Erroll Garner, Glyn Johns, and Tania León, while Dr. Leo Beranek is the Technical GRAMMY Award recipient. Each honoree represents unparalleled excellence and innovation within their respective fields.
Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “It’s an amazing privilege to honor this eclectic group of music icons during the year’s biggest week in music. Each of this year’s Special Merit Award recipients has left an indelible mark on music, from paving the way for others to innovations that forever changed the trajectory of the musical landscape.”
“This is a well-deserved honor to Prince, who truly is the most outstanding all-around artist & musician of all time,” said L. Londell McMillan, Prince’s former attorney, manager, and friend. “A special shout out to the directors of the Recording Academy.”
Among the distinguished honorees, Prince’s recognition is a testament to his unmatched genius and revolutionary approach to music. Over a prolific 40-year career, Prince redefined boundaries across genres, earning him a place among the greatest artists of all time. Known for his extraordinary versatility, Prince released 39 studio albums and composed thousands of unreleased tracks stored in his legendary Vault. His work seamlessly blended funk, rock, soul, jazz, and hip-hop, earning widespread acclaim and seven GRAMMY Awards. Iconic albums such as 1999, Purple Rain, and Sign o’ the Times were inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame®, further cementing his legacy.
Beyond his artistic contributions, Prince was a trailblazer for artist rights, advocating for creative control and equitable treatment in the music industry. He was a founding member of the Artist Empowerment Coalition and a dedicated philanthropist, providing financial support to various charities and causes. His induction into multiple halls of fame, including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, underscores his enduring influence on global music culture.
Other honorees include Frankie Beverly, whose soulful hits with Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, like “Before I Let Go” and “Joy and Pain,” have become cultural anthems; The Clash, pioneers of British punk who fused militant reggae, funk, and hip-hop into their groundbreaking albums; and Taj Mahal, a blues icon whose six-decade career redefined the genre’s scope. Gospel legend Dr. Bobby Jones, hip-hop trailblazer Roxanne Shante, and enduring pop star Frankie Valli also join the ranks of luminaries receiving this year’s Lifetime Achievement Awards.
The ceremony also acknowledges contributions beyond performance. Trustees Award honoree Glyn Johns has engineered albums for icons like The Rolling Stones and The Eagles, while Tania León’s compositions reflect her Cuban heritage and global influence. Dr. Leo Beranek, the Technical GRAMMY recipient, revolutionized acoustics, shaping the sound of some of the world’s most celebrated concert halls.
With the return of this ceremony, the Recording Academy continues its tradition of honoring the individuals who have elevated music to new heights. The 2025 Special Merit Awards promise an unforgettable celebration of artistry, innovation, and legacy.
The family of Prince has lost another musical icon recently, as his only full sibling, Tyka Nelson has passed away. A sister, mother, songwriter, and singer, she was 64 years young with no further details available at this time. This report comes via The Minnesota Star Tribune and Billboard. Tyka’s son, President Nelson broke the news to the former.
According to the outlets, she was getting ready to perform one last time in her hometown of Minneapolis back in June. She was going to retire in grand fashion at the Dakota, a major jazz and blues club in the area. However, her health was deteriorating, and she was forced to cancel the send-off performance. Tyka Nelson had mentioned to The Minnesota Star Tribune that age was also becoming more of a factor as well.
Tyka Nelson Wanted To “Keep Prince’s Legacy Alive”
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 26: Tyka Nelson, Prince’s sister and Alfred Jackson, Prince’s half brother attend the private view of the “My Name is Prince” exhibition at The O2 Arena on October 26, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Jo Hale/Getty Images)
“I’m getting older. I really wasn’t a singer. I’m a writer. I just happen to be able to sing. I enjoy singing.” Despite what she might have said, she was a true talent. She put out four albums in between 1988 and 2011. Her peers also spoke extremely high of her, including Paul Peterson, a fellow local artist who performed with Tyka in some her last public performances in 2018. “She had a soulful and sweet voice. She was playful and cute, interested in doing things for herself and for keeping Prince’s legacy alive.” Tyka was also in the process of writing a memoir, but time will tell if that gets finished at all. Rest in peace Mrs. Nelson, the music world and the HNHH team will miss you dearly.
What are your thoughts on Cardi B’s letter to Kamala Harris? Do you think she missed the mark with it, why or why not? How are you feeling now that Donald Trump is in office? We would like to hear what you have to say, so leave your thoughts in the comments. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Cardi B and Kamala Harris. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.
Grammy-winning musician Questlove recently visited the legendary Purple Rain House in Minneapolis, fulfilling a 40-year admiration for Prince’s iconic 1984 film. The newly restored home, which pays tribute to “The Kid’s” world, offered Questlove an immersive experience celebrating Prince’s enduring legacy.
Questlove explored the entire house during his visit, spending time in the Muse Lounge and taking in the exclusive decor and memorabilia that reflect Prince’s unique style. True to form, he hopped on the drums and shredded the guitar, embracing the essence of Purple Rain’s musical spirit. Adding to the fun, Questlove tried on 80s-inspired outfits and got a close look at Prince’s famed tour ensembles from the movie, which are displayed in “The Kid’s” closet.
The experience brought Questlove full circle, allowing him to celebrate his lifelong admiration for Prince and Purple Rain in the heart of its reimagined home.
Grammy award-winning musician Anderson .Paak made a special stop at Minneapolis’ latest Airbnb Icon, the iconic Purple Rain House, this week. The visit was a tribute to the legendary Prince and his groundbreaking career.
While there, .Paak immersed himself in a reimagined version of The Kid’s world from the 1984 Purple Rain movie. He explored the newly restored home, spending time in the Muse Lounge, and couldn’t resist jamming on the drums and keys. The experience also allowed him to admire exclusive memorabilia and try on ’80s-inspired outfits, including a glimpse of some of Prince’s legendary tour ensembles in The Kid’s closet.
The visit paid homage to Prince’s creative genius and enduring influence on music and culture, with .Paak embracing the spirit of the iconic artist throughout his stay.
On Thursday, July 18, Variety reported that the six-part Prince Netflix documentary is “dead in the water.” According to the report, “Representatives for the late artist’s estate claimed a first cut of the film was filled with ‘dramatic’ factual inaccuracies and ‘sensationalized’ renderings of certain events from his life.” Additionally, the Netflix deal called for a six-hour series, but Edelman reportedly turned in nine hours, which is “a violation of the agreement that “presumably enabled the estate to withhold music rights.”
This Variety report echoes a Puck report from earlier this week — nearly verbatim — so it feels safe to say that the general public will never see the six-part Prince documentary series six years in the making. There is a very small sliver of hope, maybe?
“Although Netflix and Edelman maintain final cut of the film, a Prince documentary without his music would face daunting, if not insurmountable, creative and commercial obstacles,” Variety concluded.
Prince, one of the fascinating, exciting, and eccentric musicians in American popular music history, is getting a documentary about his life and career. It’s just a matter of how long it’ll be.
Back in 2018, it was announced that Selma director Ava DuVernay was working on a documentary with Netflix about The Purple One. “The only way I know how to make this film is with love. And with great care,” she tweeted at the time. “I’m honored to do so and grateful for the opportunity entrusted to me by the estate.” DuVernay has since departed the project, but filmmaker Ezra Edelman, who made 2016’s Oscar-winning O.J.: Made in America, stepped in as director. He finished his cut of the film “a while back,” according to Puck, so what’s the hold up?
For one thing, Prince’s estate apparently isn’t thrilled by the documentary. “It’s unclear what exactly peeves them,” Puck reports, “but one source insists it’s not revelations of drug use or sexual stuff. Instead, the estate argues there are things in the film that are inaccurate.” Also, the current cut of the documentary is allegedly nine hours long, when Netflix requested it come in at six hours. Until a compromise is made, the film is being “held hostage.”
The Eagles documentary was four hours. The Prince documentary is somewhere between six and nine hours. At this rate, a Fleetwood Mac documentary will have to be 12 hours, and I will watch every second.
As the Minnesota Timberwolves fight for their championship aspirations tonight (May 30), a Minneapolis legend aura presides over the franchise. The one and only Prince’s DNA is etched into the fabric of the state, and his iconic single, “When Doves Cry,” will serve as the battle song for the Timberwolves faithful.
“He would’ve loved to be sitting front row so he could rep his city,” Londell McMillan, Prince’s longtime friend and former attorney told ESPN. “He would’ve loved Anthony Edwards and the chemistry, and Jaden McDaniels, because he likes tough play. He was a tough guy. The balance of the team, he would’ve saw them as a band that’s well-refined.
“The one thing he might’ve said is that he liked the white shirts, but he would’ve been like, where’s the purple?”
McMillan is referring to the white tees worn by the fans in unison to support the team as they battle Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and the Dallas Mavericks. However, the Purple One’s energy vibrates across the area, including a mural of the late superstar donning a parking building’s wall, hovering over the First Avenue nightclub from Purple Rain lore.
According to ESPN, “When Doves Cry” has been the Wolves’ go-to song since 2012. They use “Let’s Go Crazy” to rile up the crowd in the fourth quarter and “Controversy” when a ref flubs a call.
Numerous celebrities graced the Target Center sidelines, but Prince was a mainstay and brought a different level of excitement. An avid basketball fan, beyond what was comedically portrayed in Chappelle’s Show, Prince would hone in on the Timberwolves’ offense, echoed by former player and coach Sam Cassell and point guard Troy Hudson.
Prince’s history also includes playing basketball at Bryant Junior High School, Junior Varsity basketball at Central High School in St. Paul, and pickup games.
Even though Dave Chappelle’s iconic Comedy Central program Chappelle’s Show has been off the air for over a decade, it remains celebrated as one of the greatest comedic shows in television history, with fans still frequently referencing its sketches. One of the most famous segments was “Charlie Murphy’s True Hollywood Stories,” where comedian Charlie Murphy recounted an unforgettable story about the late music legend Prince. Murphy revealed that Prince was a phenomenal musician and an impressive basketball player who outplayed Murphy and his friends in a game while dressed in high heels and club attire.
Micki Free of Shalamar also participated in the game. In a recent interview with VladTV, he confirmed Charlie Murphy’s story, affirming that it is 100% true. Sharing the tale from his perspective, Free expressed his amazement at Prince’s basketball skills, echoing the surprise and admiration felt by everyone else who witnessed it.
There is currently a rise in women’s basketball popularity behind the star power of players like A’Ja Wilson and Caitlin Clark. But Prince was a fan of the Minnesota Lynx before it became trendy, celebrating their 2015 championship at Paisley Park.
Today, celebrations at Paisley Park continue. The annual gathering of Prince fans, known as Celebration, is returning to Paisley Park and various venues throughout Minneapolis from June 20-24, 2024. This year’s event coincides with the 40th anniversary of Purple Rain and will feature themed programming throughout the weekend.
In partnership with First Avenue, Paisley Park will present The Revolution—Wendy, Lisa, Bobby Z, Brownmark, and Dr. Fink—performing in honor of the Purple Rain milestone. These historic concerts will occur at the legendary First Avenue on Friday, June 21, and Saturday, June 22. Morris Day, New Power Generation, and many more artists will perform during the festivities.
“We are excited to have the Revolution return to Minneapolis to celebrate Prince and the 40th Anniversary of Purple Rain! Along with Morris Day, we will celebrate Prince and his iconic history! Join us and Let’s Go Crazy!,” said Bobby Z, Drummer of The Revolution.
McMillan added, “We continue to celebrate the enduring legacy of one of the greatest works ever created, Purple Rain, 40 years later. Celebration 2024 marks the beginning of a year-long series of events honoring Prince and his magnum opus.”
The weekend will be packed with activities, including an all-day block party in downtown Minneapolis on Saturday, June 22. Fans can also look forward to conversations and themed panels, DJ dance parties, screenings of HD films from the Purple Rain era, and additional surprises. Continuing Prince’s legacy of nurturing new talent, the event will feature New Artist Showcases spotlighting emerging artists.
VIP ticket holders will enjoy special experiences such as a VIP boat cruise on Lake Minnetonka, exclusive tours of new exhibits, VIP lounge access, and more.
In the world of hip-hop, rivalries and beefs are often as intense as they are intriguing. The ongoing feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has been no exception, with both artists trading bars and references that delve deep into the legacies of two music icons: Michael Jackson and Prince. This beef has become an exploration of artistic merit, commercial success, and celebrity, all through the lens of these two legendary figures. At the crux of this battle lies a fundamental divide: Prince (Kendrick Lamar) versus Michael Jackson (Drake). This topic has been a consistent point of contention, brought up repeatedly by both artists throughout their careers. In making comparisons to these icons, the musicians are asserting their respective identities and claiming a place in music history.
On tracks like “You Only Live Twice” and “Toosie Slide,” Drake boldly proclaims himself as the embodiment of Jackson. He boasts about his ability to “dance like Michael Jackson” and proclaims that he is “MJ in every way.” These declarations are a clear nod to the King of Pop’s unparalleled popularity and showmanship. Lamar, on the other hand, has consistently aligned himself with Prince. On songs like “Mask Off (Remix),” “Real 92.3 Freestyle,” and “Somebody,” he claims that Prince “lives through” him, fluctuating his vocals like the Purple One and embracing the artistic fearlessness that defined Prince’s legacy. The dichotomy between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has ignited a fascinating conversation about the true meaning of greatness in music. Lamar appears to revere artistic genius and boundary-pushing creativity, while Drake seems drawn to Jackson’s unprecedented fame and global reach.
“First Person Shooter”
On “First Person Shooter,” Drake makes grandiose claims about his successful career, shouting out the Beatles and Michael Jackson. Notably, he references being just one song away from tying Jackson’s record for the most number-one US Billboard Hot 100 singles by a solo male artist. In the music video, he dons a sequined glove and performs the “Beat It” dance steps, symbolically claiming Jackson’s crown.
“Like That”
On the track “Like That,” Kendrick Lamar takes a direct shot at Drake’s affinity for Michael Jackson, declaring, “Prince outlived Mike Jack.” This line is a powerful statement that references how Prince died roughly seven years after Michael Jackson. However, Kendrick also suggests that Prince’s artistic legacy transcends even the monumental achievements of the late Michael Jackson, though Lamar isn’t insulting the latter. Rather, he’s asserting that true artistry should be valued above commercial dominance.
Drake, however, refuses to back down. On “Push Ups,” he responds with the line, “What’s a prince to king? He a son, n—-.” This retort flips the dynamic, positioning Drake as the “king” and Kendrick Lamar as the “prince,” a mere heir to his throne. Moreover, Michael Jackson’s eldest son’s name is Prince. It’s a clever play on words that speaks to Drake’s undeniable success, albeit without directly addressing Lamar’s artistic critique.
“Euphoria”
As the battle continues, the references become more layered and complex. On “Euphoria,” Lamar opens with a reversed audio sample from the movie The Wiz starring Michael Jackson. It features Richard Pryor’s character saying, “Everything you say about me is true, I’m a phony.” This bold move sets the stage for Lamar’s response, potentially hinting at allegations against Drake’s character. Kendrick Lamar then follows with the line, “Got a Benjamin and a Jackson all in my house like I’m Joe, okay.“
This multilayered reference not only flips Drake’s “prince to king” line, positioning Kendrick Lamar as Drake’s “father” figure, but also pays homage to Michael Jackson’s father, Joe Jackson, and the iconic singer’s childhood pet rat named Ben (a nod to Michael’s second album). It’s a clever play on words that intertwines financial success (Benjamin Franklin and Andrew Jackson on U.S. currency) with familial dynamics and subtle allusions to Michael Jackson’s personal life. It’s also a subtle yet potent way for Lamar to reclaim the “son” moniker, positioning himself as the true heir to the throne.
“It’s time that you look around on who’s around you/Before you figure that you’re not alone, ask what Mike would do,” Kendrick raps as the final bars on “6:16 In L.A.” After incessantly calling out Drake for being surrounded by snakes within his team on “6:16 In LA,” Kendrick Lamar ominously warns Drake of a fate similar to Michael Jackson’s. The line references Jackson’s hit “You Are Not Alone,” while the phrase “ask what Mike would do” mirrors sayings like “What Would Jesus Do?” — hinting that Drake may be worshipping the wrong idols. Lamar seems to allude to the circumstances around Jackson’s 2009 death, which was ruled a homicide due to a lethal mix of drugs administered by his personal doctor Conrad Murray, who was later convicted of involuntary manslaughter. The lyrics suggest Drake should be wary of those close to him.
Moreover, the reference to “You Are Not Alone” – written by R. Kelly, who has faced allegations of sexual misconduct with minors – could be seen as Kendrick doubling down on implications about Drake’s rumored interests. Lamar may be implying Drake needs self-reflection, akin to Jackson’s “Man In The Mirror,” after previously calling him a “master manipulator” on “euphoria.” The haunting lyric serves as a multi-layered warning – urging Drake to re-evaluate his circle, his idols, and ultimately himself, before suffering a tragic downfall like icons before him.
“Family Matters”
On “Family Matters,” Drake delivers some of his most pointed jabs, rapping, “Your darkest secrets are comin’ to light/ It’s all on your face like what happened to Mike/ Oh shit, it’s all makin’ sense, maybe I’m Prince and you actually Mike/Michael was prayin’ his features would change so people believe that he’s actually white/ Top would make you do features for change, get on pop records and rap for the whites/ And wait, you say your brother Jermaine, but you wanted him to stay out of the light.“
Drake starts by implying Lamar has dark secrets being exposed, comparing it to Jackson’s vitiligo. Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder that caused the pop icon’s skin to lighten. He’s responding to Lamar’s “Prince outlived Mike Jack” line, flipping the script to declare himself as the “Prince” who will outshine and outlast Lamar, the “Michael.” The lyrics then take aim at Lamar’s musical direction. Drake insinuates that just as Jackson used makeup and skin-bleaching to appear whiter, Lamar does pop features with acts like Maroon 5 and Taylor Swift to pander to white audiences on “orders” from his former label boss Anthony Tiffith.
It’s a multifaceted critique – questioning Lamar’s authenticity and Blackness while mocking his need to chase mainstream, white popularity. The “Jermaine” line also randomly ropes in J. Cole, Lamar’s brother-like collaborator, with allusions to Jackson’s brother Jermaine, implying Lamar doesn’t want him in the spotlight. With these heated bars, Drake wields Jackson’s complicated heritage as a weapon. He uses racially-charged insinuations to strip Lamar of his street cred and artistic integrity.
Enduring Legacies and Artistic Ideal
Beyond the lyrical exchanges, this beef highlights the enduring influence of Michael Jackson and Prince on contemporary music. Their contributions continue to shape the discourse around what it means to be a true artist. Both figures have served as powerful archetypes for opposing ideals. Ultimately, Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s beef has transcended mere lyrical jabs. It has evolved into an exploration of creative identity, legacy, and fame’s complexities. Michael Jackson and Prince have inspired both of these rappers to speak to the very core of what it means to be a true musician in today’s world.
Warner Home Video is poised to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Prince’s iconic film “Purple Rain” with a dazzling rerelease on 4K UHD and digital platforms, filled with special features set for a June 25 release. Get this, the special edition will deliver upgraded picture and sound quality, alongside cherished bonus content, including eight music videos.
”Purple Rain” made its cinematic debut on July 27, 1984 and was co-written and directed by Albert Magnoli. The film, was loosely inspired from Prince’s own life, and grossed over $70 million worldwide. This was feat back in the eighties where films rarely made that kind of money let alone musicals. The Prince starrer clinched an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score, and catapulted the then 26-year-old artist to unparalleled stardom.
Alongside Prince, the film featured Apollonia Kotero as the protégé and love interest of Prince’s character. She was revered for her beauty and how she captivated the lead character, The Kid, played by Prince. Also casts were actual members of Prince’s band the Revolution as well as other artists whose songs Prince had written or produced, such as Morris Day and The Time. We say all that to say, fans fell in love with the entire cast and their hits, we heard and saw play out on screen. More on those hits … The iconic motion picture soundtrack, boasted smash records like “Let’s Go Crazy,” “When Doves Cry,” and “I Would Die 4 U,” in addition to the legendary title track, has sold over 25 million copies to date.
Albert Magnoli, a recent graduate of the USC School of Cinema-Television at the time, was handpicked to helm “Purple Rain” following the success of his student film “Jazz.” This caught the eye of Warner Bros. executives and the rest was history – that’s Hollywood for you!
The “Purple Rain” 4K UHD Disc offers fans a plethora of previously released special features, ensuring an immersive experience for longtime Prince fans and new audiences alike. Here’s a list of the included special features:
Commentary by director Albert Magnoli, producer Robert Cavallo and cinematographer Donald E. Thorin First Avenue: The Road to Pop Royalty – featurette Let’s Go Crazy – music video Take Me with U – music video When Doves Cry – Music Video I Would Die 4 U/Baby I’m a Star – music video Purple Rain – music video Jungle Love – music video The Bird – music video Sex Shooter – music video
This refreshing release feels like a must have and just in time for Summer. More importantly, this drop highlights 40 years of celebrated excellence for Prince, who we all miss dearly.
To commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Prince‘s groundbreaking Purple Rain, Paisley Park and the Prince Estate have unveiled a once in a lifetime chance for fans to immerse themselves in history by staying at the legendary Purple Rain house featured in the critically acclaimed and award-winning film. As part of Airbnb’s Icons program, a new category of extraordinary experiences hosted by the greatest names in music, film, television, art, sports, and more, the home will be open to the public for the first time ever and will be available to reserve this summer.
Purple Rain depicts the fictional journey of The Kid, a rising rock musician portrayed by Prince, navigating challenges like a chaotic home life, competition from a rival band, and a blossoming love affair within the Minneapolis music scene. In 2015, Prince purchased the iconic Minneapolis, Minnesota residence showcased in the film. Prince never lived in the house during his adult life and its doors have always remained closed to the public…until now.
Fans will be able to immerse themselves in experiences mirroring The Kid’s onscreen Purple Rain life during their stay at the newly renovated property. Hosted by Prince’s Revolution bandmates Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman, the stay will include spending a night in The Kid’s bedroom where he crafted music, enjoying rare and special Prince tracks, and taking a private tour of the house adorned with Prince’s real-life personal items.
“Forty years ago, Prince revolutionized culture with the release of Purple Rain. This year, we continue to honor his enduring legacy and masterpiece with a series of events inspired by Purple Rain. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, join us in Minnesota this year for an exclusive opportunity to delve into the genius behind the music,” said L Londell McMillan.
Sam Sklover added,“It’s beyond exciting to be able to reintroduce to fans, both old and new, one of the most iconic homes in music and film history. The restoration promises to stay true to Prince’s singular vision, and we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy a unique experience that celebrates his legacy.”
