As the curtain fell on the dazzling return of the Grammys to the calendar this Sunday, a plethora of emotions lingered among artists and fans, encompassing victories, setbacks, and hopeful aspirations for the forthcoming year. Marking a historic milestone for Pakistan, the Grammys have become a notable platform since 2022, courtesy of the exceptional talent of singer-songwriter Arooj Aftab.
Following the release of her acclaimed 2021 album, “Vulture Prince,” Aftab secured nominations for Best New Artist and Best Global Music Performance, the latter recognizing her track “Mohabbat” and making her the first Pakistani artist to clinch a Grammy.
This year, the Brooklyn-based artist made a stylish entrance to the star-studded affair at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena, donning an elegant all-black ensemble. Aftab effortlessly combined flared pants with chunky platform heels and a loosely tucked button-down shirt. Adding a touch of sophistication to her almost monochromatic look, she adorned an ultra-thin silk scarf, gracefully cascading down to her knees.
For those familiar with Aftab’s distinctive style and penchant for dramatic blazers, she did not disappoint. The singer adorned a black blazer adorned with thick stripes of silver sequins arranged in a diamond pattern. The shimmering embellishments harmonized with the pronounced shoulder pads, preparing her for the two nominations in the Best Global Music Performance and Best Alternative Jazz Album categories for “Shadow Forces” and “Love in Exile,” alongside collaborators Vijay Iyer and Shahzad Ismaily.
Although the coveted gold-plated gramophone statuette eluded Aftab and her collaborators this time, she graciously shared glimpses of the electrifying evening on Instagram. Backstage candids captured her getting prepped behind the vanity, showcasing her outfit at various stages before the final captivating look.
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Post-ceremony, Aftab, alongside Iyer and Ismaily, sported stylish black shades, with her black scarf replaced by a thin silver necklace. Expressing her joy and gratitude on Instagram, Aftab penned a short note, expressing her honour at receiving two nominations alongside legendary artists. Reflecting on “Love in Exile,” she delved into the album’s exploration of society’s bleaker boundaries and the human condition, aspiring for a better place.
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Wearing an “artists for ceasefire in Gaza” sticker, Aftab concluded her note with a poignant plea for peace, safety, and equality for all, calling for a ceasefire and resolution. Concluding with heartfelt thanks to her collaborators, Iyer and Ismaily, Aftab teased her fans with the promise of new music soon.
