Shakti wins Grammy: Know all about Shankar Mahadevan, Zakir Hussain's fusion band
Indian musicians Shankar Mahadevan and Zakir Hussain's fusion band Shakti made India proud at the 66th Grammys in LA. The band clinched the Global Music Album award at the prestigious ceremony.
Shankar Mahadevan and Zakir Hussain's fusion band Shakti made India proud at the 66th Gramm Awards on February 5 (IST). The band won the Global Music Album award at the Grammy Awards 2024 in Los Angeles.
The fusion band Shakti comprises vocalist Shankar Mahadevan, Ustad Zakir Hussain, John McLaughlin, percussionist V Selvaganesh, and violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan. As the band won the award, here are five things to know about the Grammy-winning band:
ABOUT SHAKTI BAND
An unprecedented transcontinental collaboration, Shakti united Eastern and Western musicians, and in the process forged the template for what is now called World Music. 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.
The band was reformed in 2020, six years after the tragic loss of Mandolin U. Shrinivas in 2014. The reconstituted itself, convening with violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan for two sold-out concerts. In June 2023, it released their first ‘This Moment’. ‘This Moment’ offers a set of eight new compositions and performances.
The album consists of 8 tracks, including ‘Shrini's Dream’, ‘Bending the Rules’, ‘Karuna, Giriraj Sudha’, ‘Mohanam’ and ‘Las Palmas.’
SHAKTI MEMBERS
The award-winning band features renowned artists like John McLaughlin, Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan, V Selvaganesh, and Ganesh Rajagopalan.
SHAKTI BAND GRAMMY SPEECH
Upon winning the Grammy, Shankar took to the stage and said, "Thank you, boys!" He also expressed his gratitude to God, family, friends, and country India. Towards the end, he also dedicated his award to his lovely wife.
Congratulations to the winners!