Photo credit: Marc Millman

Jon Batiste has been selected as the recipient of the inaugural Ray Charles “Architect of Sound” Award. This distinguished honor broadens the enduring relationship between the Ray Charles Foundation and the Grammy Museum. It will be presented during the Recording Academy and Grammy Museum’s Hall of Fame Gala on May 16 at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. 

According to the official press release, the award is “Inspired by the boundless genius of Charles—whose legacy as a performer, pianist, songwriter, producer, and entrepreneur forever transformed the musical landscape—the ‘Architect of Sound’ Award recognizes an artist whose influence echoes across generations.”

“Whether through innovation in sound, groundbreaking artistry, or an unwavering commitment to musical excellence, the recipient embodies the pioneering spirit of one of music’s greatest architects. A 17-time GRAMMY winner with 10 recordings inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame and a Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award honoree, Ray Charles was one of the most influential artists of all time,” the press material imparts. 

Batiste’s Grammy history includes 22 total nominations and seven wins, most recently taking home the Best Music Film for American Symphony and Best Song Written for Visual Media, “It Never Went Away [From American Symphony], during the 67th annual awards ceremony. Like Charles, Batiste’s status as a genre-defying pianist, singer-songwriter, and bandleader contributing to the broader cultural landscape informs the Academy’s decision to select him as a first-time honoree. 

Batiste said, “Ray Charles is a beacon for me, a blueprint. He is a singular example of musical genius, artistic freedom and craft of the highest level that will continue to inspire humanity for generations and stand the test of time. I am honored to receive this award. It is vitally important to me to carry on our cultural legacy of true artistic greatness and lead the way for generations to come.”

In addition to receiving the award on May 16, Batiste will participate in two special performances. More details will follow. 

Tickets for the Grammy Hall Of Fame Gala are on sale now.