Alessia Cara is the Best New Artist at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards held in Madison Square Garden in New York City.
On Sunday night, Jan. 28, the 21-year-old collected her first Grammys onstage.
"Holy cow," she said surprised. "I've been pretend-winning Grammys since I was a kid in my shower. You think I'd have the speech thing down, but I absolutely don't."
During her short speech, she thanked her team, her fans, her music influences, and The Academy for recognizing her talent.
"I just want to encourage everyone to support real music and real artists," she added. "Everyone deserves the same shot."
Khalid, Lil Uzi Vert, Julia Michaels, and SZA were also nominated for Best New Artist.
Phenomenal Year
Cara's win does not come as a surprise to many because the young artist has a promising music career that, since her debut, has been on an upward trajectory. In the past few years, she had four singles that were certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Of course, her rendition of "How Far I'll Go" from the Academy Award-nominated movie Moana was a huge hit that helped cement her superstar status.
The singer was also included in Forbes 30 Under 30 Class of 2017.
The "Scars To Your Beautiful" songwriter was also voted by online betting markets, professional prognosticators, and casual fans as a clear favorite to win the award.
Suicide Prevention
Cara was also nominated for the Song of the Year and Best Music Video for "1-800-273-8255." She shares the honor with Sir Robert Bryson Hall II (Logic), Arjun Ivatury (6ix), Khalid Robinson, and Andrew Taggart.
She, together with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, also performed the song at the awards ceremony. The Canadian singer stood onstage with people who attempted to take their own lives or have someone they love commit suicide. "1-800-273-8255," a song about wanting to live while having suicidal thoughts is also the phone number of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
According to Teen Vogue, the hit single led to a 100 percent increase in Google searches and a 33 percent increase in phone calls received by the organization.
"Over the years so many of you guys have told me that my music has helped you through so many tough times," said Logic. "Many of you have told me its even saved your life. I'm beyond humbled. But I felt I haven't done enough. I made this song for all of you who are in a dark place and can't seem to find the light."
