Richard Branson to be recognised at the 2012 GRAMMYs
- By Jack Preston -
- Jan 23, 2012
Richard Branson’s contribution to the music industry is set to be recognised next month, with the Virgin Group founder being honoured with the President’s Merit Award at the Pre-GRAMMY Awards Gala in Beverly Hills.
The Recording Academy are keen to pay tribute to Branson’s work and its impact on the music industry. With over 30 years experience in the business, dating back to the opening of the first Virgin Records shop in London, Branson has had a hugely positive influence on how music is both recorded and consumed.
"This year we are thrilled to honour extraordinary entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson, whose contributions to the music industry began with a record store in London and grew into a global empire,” explained Recording Academy CEO Neil Portnow.
“His iconic Virgin brand is synonymous with excellence and continues to draw consumers on numerous platforms from around the world."
Under Branson's leadership Virgin has become synonymous with music. Virgin Records were responsible for releasing seminal works such as Mike Oldfield’s 'Tubular Bells' and The Sex Pistols’ 'God Save The Queen’, Virgin Music festivals in England, America and Australia have given thousands the opportunity to witness live music, while Virgin Megastores and Virgin Radio both enhanced the accessibility of music to a mass market.
It is these achievements, as well as many others, that have led to Branson being invited to the prestigious event. Previous recipients of the award include legendary American guitarist Kenny Burrell and Spanish tenor Plácido Domingo.
Portnow was keen to point out the importance of the Gala in the musical calendar: "The Pre-GRAMMY Gala is a special night, with the legendary Clive Davis hosting an exclusive evening of music, memorable performances and stories — the perfect precursor to Music's Biggest Night.”
The Gala is part of a week long series of events, culminating in the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards, which will take place at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles.
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By Jack Preston. Content & Marketing Executive. Tweets at @JackPressedOn
