“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars – track from the album “Uptown Special“

The Hook that Grabbed the GRAMMY: In a category that features hit singles by some of radio’s most famous residence in artists Taylor Swift and The Weeknd, it may surprise some people that Mark Ronson walks away with the award. However, one can find the British Producer/DJ’s name next to any number of chart climbing songs by artists ranging from Paul McCartney to Lil’ Wayne. With his most successful song to date featuring vocalist, Bruno Mars, “Uptown Funk” is a retro funk anthem with ear catching horn melodies and an iconic bass line that allowed the song to remain at the summit of the Billboard Hot 100 for 14 consecutive weeks. Check out the tune, Uptown Funk, via Hoopla.

“Blank Space” by Taylor Swift – track from the album “1989“

The Hook that Grabbed the GRAMMY: There is no possible way that pop sensation Taylor Swift goes home empty handed on award night, no matter what Kanye West has to say about it. With “Blank Space” Swift once again proves her longevity on the Billboard Hot 100, displaying an uncanny ability to craft pop melodies that a generation of teenagers and even adults will hum along to for years to come. Check out the tune, Blank Space, via Hoopla.

“Sound & Color” by Alabama Shakes

The Hook that Grabbed the GRAMMY: The sassy southern rockers, Alabama Shakes are no strangers to award season, having earned 3 GRAMMY nominations for their debut album, Boys & Girls. With their second studio album, Sound & Color, the band ascends to new heights with an edgier and more ambient sound. In the past, they have been acclaimed for hearkening back to the soulful sounds of Janis Joplin and Lynyrd Skynyrd. While they still maintain the same nostalgic roots rock grit in their approach, the band’s willingness to experiment and innovate gets them the nod for Album of the Year in a close race over Taylor Swift’s 1989 and Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly. Check out the album, Sound & Color, via Hoopla.