Grammy Awards 2024: Indian Musicians Shankar Mahadevan, Zakir Hussain Win Big

Shakti won Best Global Music Album at the 2024 Grammys.

In a resounding victory for the global music community, the illustrious fusion band Shakti, featuring the dynamic talents of Shankar Mahadevan and Zakir Hussain, has captured the prestigious title of Best Global Music Album at the 2024 Grammy Awards. This monumental achievement marks the band's triumphant return after over four decades, underscoring their enduring impact on the world stage.

Shakti's latest release, "This Moment," emerged victorious amidst stiff competition, securing the top spot at the Grammys and solidifying their position as pioneers of fusion music. Comprising eight new tracks composed by John McLaughlin, Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan, V Selvaganesh, and Ganesh Rajagopalan, the album represents a masterful blend of Indian classical music and jazz, a hallmark of Shakti's signature sound.

The significance of Shakti's win lies not only in the accolade itself but also in the band's remarkable journey. Founded in 1973 by jazz guitarist John McLaughlin in collaboration with traditional Indian musicians, Shakti revolutionized the music scene by bridging cultural divides and pushing musical boundaries beyond Western traditions. Led by the legendary Indian violinist L Shankar, the band captivated audiences worldwide with their electrifying performances and groundbreaking compositions.

Following a hiatus in the late '70s, Shakti was reformed in the late '90s with Shankar Mahadevan on vocals, U Srinivas on the mandolin, and Selvaganesh Vinayakram, alongside John McLaughlin and Zakir Hussain. Since then, Shakti has continued to captivate audiences with their innovative sound and dynamic collaborations.

The release of "This Moment" in 2023 marked a significant milestone for Shakti, as it brought together the band members for their first album in over 45 years. Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, each member of the band recorded their parts separately from their respective home cities, resulting in a seamless and cohesive album that showcases the diverse talents of each musician.

Shakti's Grammy win not only celebrates their musical prowess but also honors their legacy as trailblazers in the world of fusion music. As the band continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, their triumph at the 2024 Grammys serves as a testament to the enduring power of collaboration, creativity, and cultural fusion in music.

In addition to Shakti's win, India's Rakesh Chaurasia also clinched two awards at the 2024 Grammys, while Miley Cyrus secured her first-ever Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance. As the music world celebrates these milestones, Shakti's victory stands as a proud moment for India and the global music community alike.

Upon receiving the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album, Shankar Mahadevan took to the stage to express his gratitude to his fellow band members, supporters, and well-wishers. He dedicated the award to his beloved wife and acknowledged the role of divine intervention, family, friends, and country in their journey to success.

Reference:

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