In an extraordinary recognition of fusion and virtuosity, the globally renowned music group Shakti has seized the prestigious 2024 Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album with their groundbreaking work “This Moment”. Celebrated for its innovative blend of Eastern and Western musical traditions, the album represents a triumphant return for the group with their first studio release in over four decades.
Behind the genius of “This Moment” are the ensemble’s distinguished members: the legendary tabla expert Zakir Hussain and the versatile vocalist Shankar Mahadevan, who together have spearheaded the album’s journey to critical acclaim following its release in June 2023. Joining them in this cultural confluence are founding member and guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan, and percussionist Selvaganesh Vinayakram, each bringing their unique mastery to the mix.
The Recording Academy, the esteemed body behind the Grammy Awards, celebrated Shakti’s win on its X page, sharing an exuberant post that marked the occasion with ceremonial aplomb: “Congrats Best Global Music Album winner – ‘This Moment’ Shakti. #GRAMMYs.”
At Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena, where the event took place, the ensemble’s members expressed their heartfelt gratitude with Mahadevan, taking the stage alongside Rajagopalan, and Selvaganesh, while giving nods to absentees McLaughlin and Hussain. “We miss you John ji. Zakir Hussain, he just had another Grammy today. Thank you boys, God, family, friends, and India. We are proud of you, India,” said Mahadevan, dedicating the triumph to his wife Sangeeta and their homeland. Violinist Rajagopalan then took a moment to extend his thanks to the Recording Academy for this monumental recognition.
But the night was not over for Hussain, who garnered not one, but three Grammy accolades. His unparalleled talent earned him the Best Global Music Performance for ‘Pashto’, while also sharing the Best Contemporary Instrumental Album for ‘As We Speak’ with renowned American artists — banjo player Bela Fleck and bassist Edgar Meyer — featuring the eminent Indian flautist Rakesh Chaurasia.
Fellow musician and two-time Grammy winner Ricky Kej was present to witness India’s remarkable achievements at this year’s Grammys, taking to social media to celebrate the nation’s success: “SHAKTI wins a #GRAMMYs #GRAMMYs2024!!! Through this album 4 brilliant Indian musicians win Grammys!! Just amazing. India is shining in every direction.” In another message, Kej acclaimed Hussain’s triple wins and Chaurasia’s dual victories, highlighting what he dubbed “a great year for India at the Grammys”.
The essence of Shakti’s musical philosophy hails from its inception in 1973 when McLaughlin and Hussain, alongside L Shankar and T H ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram, melded their talents to form an unparalleled ensemble. Together with mridangam player Ramnad V Raghavan, the group launched their eponymous debut album in 1975, sparking a revolution in what would be later celebrated as world music. The band’s website poetically portrays their impact: “Their dynamic musical hybrid immediately enthralled audiences around the globe – and inspired generations of musicians, artists, and thinkers from all walks of life to embark on their own cross-cultural odysseys.”
This year’s Grammy victory not only commemorates Shakti’s historical significance but also reinforces the ever-evolving and expansive reach of global music. By blurring the lines between the traditional and the contemporary, “This Moment” serves as a testament to the unifying power of music and the remarkable talents that continue to bring diverse worlds of sound into harmonious sync.
