Coming into February means 2019 award season is in full swing. With the celebration of music with the Grammys and of film with the Oscars, fans eagerly watched their favorite songs, actors, and movies compete for these prestigious awards.

The 61st Annual Grammys took place on February 10th. With host Alicia Keys, viewers saw cameos and performances by an array of artists such as Lady Gaga, Travis Scott, Post Malone, Cardi B, and, of course, Alicia Keys herself. Particularly notable awards were given to an even more diverse group of artists. Best New Artists was given to Dua Lipa, a decision that left fans wondering, once again, what the “New” in “Best New Artist” meant because of the fact that most of these artists are far from new. Dua Lipa is known for such hits like “New Rules” and “No Lie”. Childish Gambino’s “This is America”, known for its politically charged lyrics and music video, took home the Record of the Year and Song of the Year Award. Childish Gambino is known for R&B hits like “Redbone”. Finally, country artist Kacey Mungraves, certainly a much less recognized artist than other nominees, took home the title of Album of the Year, as well as 3 other awards. The 61st Grammys was successful in bringing in inspiring and extravagant performances, as well as honoring the artists who deserved recognition for their works. Freshman Abby Morrison enjoys seeing all the stars, “I always like seeing all my favorite artists in the same room.”

The 92nd Annual Oscars took place February 24th. Due to Kevin Hart’s controversial past statements being brought back into light, he stepped down from the title of this year’s host, leaving the Oscars hostless for the year. To make up for this, the Oscars began the show with a performance from Queen, to honor the memory of Freddie Mercury and Bohemian Rhapsody being nominated for Best Picture. The Oscars included musical performances, with songs from the soundtracks of different influential movies, from artists like Jennifer Hudson, and Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s duet of the song from A Star is Born, “Shallow”. Bohemian Rhapsody ended the night with three awards, but Green Book, a movie about themes of racism, took Best Picture. Black Panther, a favorite among fans, took home the awards Best Original Music Score, Best Costume Design, and Best Production Design. Freshman Emma Jacobs enjoyed the performances the most, “I liked Lady Gaga’s performance of ‘Shallow’ because I liked to hear the song from a great movie on stage.”

No matter what artform interests viewers most, the award season is the time to celebrate, spread awareness, and bring favorites new and old to many viewers. Without the award season, musicians and filmmakers wouldn’t get the honor and recognition they deserve for the hard work they endure to bring their art to life.