A Grammy winner herself, Queen Latifah will host — and perform at — the 47th annual awards show.
The hip-hop artist is also nominated for best jazz vocal album for her latest album “The Dana Owens Album,” a collection of soul, blues and pop standards. It’s the first time she’s actually recorded a singing album.
“Queen Latifah is an extraordinary Renaissance artist with unparalleled style and substance, and her passion, talent and personality make her an excellent choice as host for our show,” said Neil Portnow, President of The Recording Academy.
With her Afrocentric garb and regal presence, Latifah launched her career with the album “All Hail the Queen” in 1989. Three more records followed in the ’90s, and the single “U.N.I.T.Y.” earned her a Grammy for best solo rap performance. She was nominated for an Oscar in 2003 for her role as Mama Morton in the film version of “Chicago.”
The Grammys will be broadcast on CBS Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. EST.
Credit: AP