Legendary Mexican guitarist Carlos Santana, and American musicians Cher, Paul Simon, and Whitney Houston were honored this Saturday with the Special Merit Award presented by The Recording Academy's Grammy. This award recognizes the achievements and influence of artists beyond the music industry. The award was one of the recognitions given this Saturday at a gala preceding the 68th Grammy Awards, which will be held this Sunday in Los Angeles. This list of honorees was joined by Chaka Khan and Fela Kuti, also distinguished with the Special Merit Award, while Bernie Taupin, Eddie Palmieri, and Sylvia Rhone were recognized with the Trustees Award; and John Chowning, in turn, received the Technical Grammy. The Mexican guitarist, a key figure in rock, fused several styles such as blues and Latin rhythms with his band Santana, with which he became known in 1966. Paul Simon is credited with the innovation of Latin American and African sounds in albums such as 'Graceland' and Fela Kuti with the creation of afrobeat, a genre that blends African rhythms, jazz, and funk. The recognition for Houston comes posthumously, following her death in 2012, to honor her profound and lasting impact and her unparalleled musical talent as one of the most influential voices in modern music. The broadcast will be live on CBS Television Network and live and on-demand on Paramount+.
