Time is a gift and no one knows that better than Bulova. That's why the Recording Academy partnered with the New York-based maker of classic timepieces this afternoon for the "Tune of Time" brunch, which featured a live performance by three-time GRAMMY winner, Nile Rodgers.
The exclusive event was held at the posh Cipriani in lower Manhattan, N.Y. Tastemakers, musicians, producers, and industry vets mingled while air kisses were blown across the room during cocktail hour. Mimosas and bellinis flowed as guests posed for pictures on the red carpet with the life size GRAMMY statuette. Once seated, guests were formally welcomed by Michael Benavente, managing director at Bulova, who shared his excitement for the partnership with the Recording Academy. He offered powerful words about the impact of music, noting that the spirit of today's event is the "intersection of music and time."
The audience had a chance to hear directly from Rodgers as GRAMMY Museum Executive Director Scott Goldman sat down with the legend for a one-on-one conversation. When asked about his gift for collaborating with other artists, Rodgers — who has produced for legends like Diana Ross, Mick Jagger, Madonna, and many more, offered a simple answer: "I'm not afraid to fail, and I have total respect for the artist I work with," he said.
During the conversation Nile also spoke about the forthcoming Chic album, It's About Time, which was delayed because of the untimely passing of his close friends, Prince and David Bowie. The frontman, who describes his band as the “Grateful Dead of dance music,” admits to usually playing just one special guitar, despite having well over 100 of them.
The highlight of the afternoon was undoubtedly the performance by the producer extraordinaire, and his band, Chic. Rodgers, who is a co-founding member of Chic and lead guitarist, reminded us why he's the king of disco funk. The band gave an explosive performance that had everyone on their feet, singing along. Performing hits such as “Everybody Dance," “I Want Your Love” and even some new material, it felt like Studio 54 in the '70s. And if that wasn't enough, Rodgers also performed hits from artists he's collaborated with, including Diana Ross and Sister Sledge.
Not one person was seated during the performance — Jason Lipshutz, editorial director at Billboard, included. "To hear Nile tell stories and reflect on his contributions to music and witness a live performance really sets the tone for the weekend,” Lipshutz remarked.
GRAMMY.com also got a chance to chat with Rodgers, a New York native, about working with Bulova. "Bulova is such an iconic brand. All of my life I've been going to the airport and passing the Bulova building, which is a landmark," says the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee. "And the GRAMMYs are a symbol of excellence. It's cool to be associated with iconic brands."
As the official timepiece partner of the 60th GRAMMY Awards, Bulova is celebrating the milestone anniversary with a limited-edition timepiece that will be presented to all winners of tomorrow's annual GRAMMY celebration.
Hosted by James Corden, the 60th GRAMMY Awards will take place at Madison Square Garden in New York on Jan. 28, airing live on CBS from 7:30–11 p.m. ET/4:30–8 p.m. PT.
(Lakeia Brown is a freelance writer and host of the podcast, Decoded with Elle Bee. She has been published in publications like O, The Oprah Magazine, Essence and Complex. You can follow her on IG @elle_bee_decoded.)
