The Grammy nominations for 2021 have been as divisive as ever. The Weeknd called corruption after being snubbed (despite having the best-selling album in the US). Justin Bieber had a little whinge about being in the wrong category after making what was – in his eyes – “undeniably, unmistakably an R&B Album”. But for some people, a nomination for the most prestigious music industry awards is still a big deal.
Chika, who only released her debut single last April, was among the nominees for ‘Best New Artist’. Clearly thrilled, the Alabama rapper marked the occasion with a new tattoo: the date of her nomination, a picture of a Grammy award and the message “I already won”.
Despite it being obvious that Chika is referring to the feeling of being Grammy nominated, rather than counting her chickens before they’re hatched, fans think the tattoo was premature and impulsive – but she’s not having it.
“This is a public service announcement ’cause motherfuckers are pissed about this on my arm and a lot of people think it’s stupid,” she said via Instagram stories. “But it’s like, ‘N****! This day I will always fucking remember, man. I’m getting to take my dad to the Grammys which is on my bucket list. When you have a sick parent you might – you know – give a fuck about things more than others might ’cause it’s not their life, it’s yours.
“Anyway, I’m happy and content with my choices. Everyone’s like ‘That’s so impulsive’. But I got a tattoo of the ‘Fred, my leg’ guy from Spongebob!”
Of all the artist reactions to this year’s nominations, this has to be one of the best. Genuine excitement and appreciation is something that is too often quashed by the music industry machine and for Chika to mark this most memorable of moments, is proof that she’s yet to become jaded by it all.
Chika’s fellow nominees for Best New Artist include Phoebe Bridgers and Kaytranada (both two albums deep), Noah Cyrus, Doja Cat, Ingrid Andress, D Smoke and Megan Thee Stallion. It’s a confusing category, with many of the nominees already being fairly established with major chart hits under their belts.
As an actual newbie and after a successful first year, Chika is arguably one of the most deserving winners but who knows how the vote will go. For now, she’s just happy she gets to take her dad to the Grammys. And for that, Chika, we salute you.
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