Canadian singer and songwriter Alessia Caracciolo, more popularly known as Alessia Cara, has come a long way from her debut single, “Here,” back in 2015. Other hits of Cara include “Stay” and “Scars to Your Beautiful,” both hits that have contributed to her recent accomplishment.
As of Sunday, Jan. 28, the 21-year-old pop star received the award for Best New Artist at the 60th annual Grammy Awards. In one interview, Cara said “I’m such a huge fan of the other artists,” clarifying that she felt humbled by the award and was by no means the best. However, Cara has come under criticism for receiving the award, some news outlets even going so far as to call her a “disappointing choice.”
It should be noted that Cara was the only woman to walk away with a top award Sunday night, and so she should be applauded for her accomplishment, not ridiculed. However, many music listeners online have voiced their opinions that Cara was not best suited for the award compared to other artists like Khalid. Despite these harsh criticisms, Cara has publicly stated she will not let the negative energy of others damper the happiness she feels in the wake of such a success. In addition to Best New Artist, Cara was also nominated for best music video and song of the year.
At the Grammys, Logic, Cara and Khalid performed the Song of the Year nominee, “1-800-273-8255.” The song’s title is the real number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Suicide prevention is a very important cause for the rapper Logic. The rapper started the “I’m Listening” campaign with musicians Halsey, Metallica and Krist Novoselic aimed at promoting mental health awareness. This campaign proves that media and the arts can educate the public and spread messages of positivity and love, which is why award shows like the Grammys remind viewers of the significance of these artists’ accomplishments.
Doménica Castro is a first-year student majoring in theater. ✉️ DC874612@wcupa.edu.