Jon Batiste will receive the inaugural “Architect of Sound” Ray Charles Award at the annual Grammy Hall of Fame gala, which will be held on May 16 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. This award will be presented annually at this event, which is jointly presented by the Grammy Museum and the Recording Academy.
The “Architect of Sound” award recognizes an artist whose impact on music reflects the pioneering spirit of Ray Charles. Winner of 17 Grammy Awards, Ray Charles is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists of all time. He was part of the first group of artists inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 and also received honors from the Kennedy Center that same year. In 1987, he received the Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award and has 10 recordings in the Grammy Hall of Fame. Jamie Foxx won an Oscar for portraying Charles in the 2004 biographical film Ray, which remains one of the top 10 highest-grossing music biopics of all time.
“Ray Charles is a beacon for me, a role model,” Batiste said in a statement. “He is a singular example of musical genius, artistic freedom, and mastery at the highest level that will continue to inspire humanity for generations and stand the test of time. I am honored to receive this award. It is of vital importance to me to continue our cultural legacy of true artistic greatness and lead the way for future generations.”
Michael Sticka, President and CEO of the Grammy Museum, said, “Ray Charles was an innovative artist whose influence knows no bounds, and Jon Batiste is a true reflection of that legacy. Beyond his immense talent, Jon has been a dedicated partner in advancing the Grammy Museum’s mission of making music education more accessible. Honoring him with the inaugural ‘Architect of Sound’ Ray Charles Award is not only fitting but also a celebration of two artists who have shaped the sound of generations.”
Valerie Ervin, President of the Ray Charles Foundation, added, “Ray Charles was always pushing music forward – blending genres, breaking barriers, and inspiring generations. He would be deeply honored to have his name associated with an award that celebrates artists who share his bold creativity and dedication to their art. Jon Batiste embodies that spirit.”
Batiste has won seven Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year for We Are, and an Oscar for Best Original Score for the film Soul. He is also the bandleader and musical director for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. In addition to his musical achievements, Batiste is a dedicated advocate for music education and serves as the Artistic Director at Large for the National Jazz Museum in Harlem.
The Grammy Hall of Fame gala is an annual event that celebrates the induction of new recordings into the Grammy Hall of Fame, which recognizes recordings of lasting qualitative or historical significance. This year’s inductees include recordings by Jay-Z, Santana, Miami Sound Machine, and more. The event also raises funds for the Grammy Museum’s music education initiatives.
The “Architect of Sound” Ray Charles Award will be a prestigious honor for artists who continue to push the boundaries of music and inspire future generations. Jon Batiste is a fitting recipient of this award, as he embodies the spirit of innovation and artistic excellence that Ray Charles exemplified throughout his career. This award will not only honor Batiste’s achievements but also celebrate the enduring legacy of Ray Charles and his impact on the world of music.