‘This Is America’ Becomes First Rap Song to Win Grammy for Record of the Year

On Sunday night, February 10th, Childish Gambino won record of the year at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards for his political anthem “This Is America,”. This track has made history being the first rap song to ever take home the honor, and rounding out a night of wins for the multi-talented Atlanta rapper. The prestigious award was accepted on behalf of co-writer and producer Ludwig Göransson, engineer/mixer Derek “MixedByAli” Ali and mastering engineer Mike Bozzi, for Gambino was not in attendance of the event.

“Creating music with Childish Gambino has been one of the greatest stories of my life,” Göransson told the crowd. “As a kid growing up in Sweden, loving American music, I always dreamt of migrating here, working with an artist like Donald Glover.

“I really wish he was here with us right now, because this truly was his vision, and he deserves this credit,” he continued. “No matter where you’re born or what country you’re from, you connect with it. It speaks to people. It connects right to your soul. It calls out injustice, celebrates life, and reunites us, all at the same time.”

The producer also took a moment to shout-out rapper 21 Savage, who is currently being held without bond by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and therefore wasn’t able to perform at the Grammys. “21 Savage, you should be here tonight,” Göransson added.

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