The Grammy's used to promote music that pushed the envelope (Think Sgt Peppers back in the 60's). In the 80's this changed and pushed a more pop orientated. Take a quick look back at the one hit wonders that won Grammy's. Here is a short list:

Milli Vanilli
Bobby McFarrin
Tracy Chapman
Bette Midler
Sinead OConner

An awards show that gave away awards to hardworking artists like Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, and Lionel Richie, now promotes bubblegum pop or whatever is popular now or whatever hates President Bush.

The Dixie Chicks were shunned by Country stations for their outspoken views on our President. Their cd's were steamrolled and concerts boycotted. But despite zero radio airplay, and hardly any promotion, they sold out their concerts and sold millions of cd's. The hard worked paid off for them as they won a shitload of Grammy's last night. One thing we can always be sure of...criticism of the current administration will always get you an award (Oscar, Emmy, Grammy etc)

You can also see who is popular just by seeing the performances. As the award show turns 50 they tried to mash up new and young artists together. Smoky Robinson, Lionel Richie, and Chris Brown, Earth Wind and Fire with Mary J Blige and Ludacris. But that just makes for a longing of the good old days when you hear Lionel Richie's heartfelt ballad Hello followed by Chris Brown's Step anthem (Insert song title here)

What used to promote musicianship has now just become a circle jerk for who-is-who in the music business. Stop watching award shows, they promote masturbation.