UK talent is the running for the Grammys this weekend with nods for artists including Ed Sheeran, The Rolling Stones and Brian Eno. So far this week we’ve looked at the prospects for a pair of dance acts – Bonobo and Mura Masa are each up for two Grammys.
Gorillaz have been recognised at the Grammys in both the Dance/Electronic Field and the Alternative Field. Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett’s Parlophone-signed cartoon band are nominated for Best Alternative Music Album (Humanz), alongside heavyweight contenders Arcade Fire, LCD Soundsystem, Father John Misty and The National.
“I’ve got my fingers crossed for Gorillaz, that will be wonderful if they get recognised,” Mike Smith, MD at Warner/Chappell UK, told Music Week.
In previous years, Gorillaz have converted just one of their nine Grammy nods into a win (Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals in 2005 for Feel Good Inc).
Smith said the 2018 nominations “definitely” benefit the band and the album campaign. Gorillaz are also up for Best Dance Recording with Andromeda (feat. Dram).
He added that Albarn is set to build on the nominations with further activity in 2018. The band have already booked dates in South America and Europe.
“The wonderful thing with Gorillaz is they’re a band with terrific momentum,” said Smith. “I feel very confident that, as we go through 2018, there will be a lot more music coming from them, they’ll be a lot more live work.”
He added: “Damon never stops making music and he’s been really inspired with how Gorillaz has worked over the last 12 months. I’m delighted that he’s working hard and we should hopefully be hearing some new music soon.”
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