Music and activism can go hand in hand. Often some of the most memorable songs, and moments in history complement one another and drive forward social and political change. So this year you can put your hands together for thirteen talented artist who’ve performed with Global Citizen, and are spreading positive change throughout the world while creating powerful music.
1. Tori Kelly
When did she perform?
Global Citizen Festival 2015
What is she up for?
She’s nominated for best new artist!
Why is she awesome?
She’s all for equality: “Everyone in life has a purpose, and nobody’s purpose is better than than anyone else’s.”
2. Ed Sheeran
When did he perform?
Global Citizen Festival 2015
What is he up for?
Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Pop Solo Performance for his album Thinking Out Loud
Why is he awesome?
He’s raised £40,000 GBP for a charity that helps women trapped in sex work build new lives away from violence, poverty, and addiction.
3. Foo Fighters
When did they perform?
Global Citizen Festival 2012
What are they up for?
Best Rock Performance for song Something From Nothing
Why are they awesome?
Lead singer Dave Grohl, has fought for equal rights for decades: “I believe in love and I believe in equality and I believe in marriage equality.”
4. My Morning Jacket
When did they perform?
Global Citizen 2015 Earth Day
What are they up for?
Best Alternative Music Album for The Waterfall
Why are they awesome?
Part of their ticket sales go to The Waterfall Project which supports environmental and climate issues.
5. Common
When did he perform?
Global Citizen Festival 2015
What is he up for?
Best RAP/SUNG Collaboration with John Legend for Glory
Why is he awesome?
He’s been saving the planet and animals by not eating meat for years.
6. John Legend
When did he perform?
Global Citizen Festival 2013
What is he up for?
Best RAP/SUNG Collaboration with Common for “Glory”
Why is he awesome?
Not only has he won nine Grammys, but he also founded the Show Me campaign which seeks to give every child access to education.
7. Carrie Underwood
When did she perform?
Global Citizen Festival 2014
What is she up for?
Best Country Solo Performance for “Little Toy Guns”
Why is she awesome?
She believes in the Global Goals! "I believe we all have the ability to make our world a better place. Positive change is possible when we work together, and this festival is a hopeful opportunity for all of us to help see an end to extreme poverty."
BONUS: Grammy nominees you can score FREE tickets (after your hard work taking action) to see:
8. Alabama Shakes
Where can you get tickets?
Right here!
What are they up for?
Best Rock Song for “Don’t Wanna Fight”
Why are they awesome?
“Are you afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve?” They’re not! And their lyrics remind global citizens there’s no reason to fear love.
Global Citizen artists who’ve won in the past:
9. Beyoncé, Co-founder of CHIME FOR CHANGE
When did she perform?
Global Citizen Festival 2014 (Thanks Jay-Z!), and Global Citizen Festival 2015
How many Grammys has she won?
20
Why is she awesome?
She co-founded CHIME FOR CHANGE with Salma Hayek, which promotes education, health, and justice for girls and women all over the world.
10. Stevie Wonder
When did he perform?
Global Citizen Festival
How many Grammys has he won?
25—the most for any male solo artist
Why is he awesome?
He is an inspiration for ALL people “Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes doesn't mean he lacks vision.”
11. Usher
When did he perform?
Global Citizen 2015Earth Day and a special appearance at Global Citizen Festival 2015
How many Grammys has he won?
8
Why is he awesome?
He works with Keep a Child Alive to end HIV/AIDS for children around the world.
12. Gwen Stefani
When did she perform?
Global Citizen 2015 Earth Day, Global Citizen Festival 2014 with No Doubt
How many Grammys has she won?
3
Why is she awesome?
After the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, Stefani donated $1 million to the Save the Children emergency fund.
13. Jay Z
When did he perform?
Global Citizen Festival 2014
How many Grammys has he won?
21
Why is he awesome?
In 2006 Jay-Z met with UN Secretary-General Kofi Anan and pledged to use his worldwide tour that year to promote the need for clean water and sanitation.
The Grammy's should be an incredible night full of powerful music. Watch and support these great artists for their music and their dedication to improving our world.
Share who you’d like to see win during the Grammy Awards tonight in the comments below!