Alicia Keys will be the host of the 2019 Grammy Awards, the singer announced via her social media channels on Tuesday morning.
“There’s so much in store and I CAN’T WAIT for y’all to see it ALL come to life,” the 15-time Grammy winner said.
The “Fallin’” singer follows in the footsteps of last year’s host, James Corden, who took the mic from Madison Square Garden when the show was held in New York City.
“This is my first time. I am thrilled!” Keys told ET on Monday while filming a promo shoot for the awards show. “It’s a little bit of a second home to me. And I feel so blessed to be able to be coming now, just in support of so many amazing people that are honored — especially so many women that are [going to be] honored — and are gonna be celebrated that night.”
“I know what it feels like to be on that stage, and I’m going to bring that vibe and energy,” Keys added in a statement Tuesday. “I’m so excited to be the master of ceremonies on the biggest night in music and celebrate the creativity, power and, magic. I’m especially excited for all the incredible women nominated this year! It’s going ‘UP’ on February 10!”
Recording Academy president and CEO Neil Portnow praised the singer as “a dynamic artist with the rare combination of groundbreaking talent and passion for her craft, Alicia Keys is the perfect choice as host for our show,” he said in a statement.
Kendrick Lamar leads the nominations this year with eight nods, Drake has seven, and Brandi Carlile and producer Boi-1da follow all with six nods apiece.
See other notable nominees here.
The 61st Annual Grammy Awards air live on CBS Sunday, Feb. 10 at at 8 p.m. ET from the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles.