On Sep. 27, the New York Chapter presented The Recording Academy Honors at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City. This year's honorees were GRAMMY-winning artists Bon Jovi, Alicia Keys, Donnie McClurkin, and the creators of "West Side Story" (Leonard Bernstein, Arthur Laurents, Jerome Robbins and Stephen Sondheim) on the 50th anniversary date of the show's original Broadway premiere.

The awards program began with opening remarks by The Academy's President/CEO Neil Portnow, which included a video presentation featuring the highlights of the GRAMMY's 50-year history.

Portnow also presented a Special Legacy Presentation to longtime New York Chapter member and multi-GRAMMY winner Dan Morgenstern. Morgenstern spoke of the early days as a Chapter member, Governor and Trustee, and noted how the Chapter has grown and flourished since its fledgling beginnings when its office was housed in the apartment of then Executive Director George Simon.

The Honors program continued with a rocking tribute performance to Bon Jovi by Melissa Etheridge of "Wanted Dead Or Alive" and "Livin' On A Prayer." Island Def Jam Music Group Chairman Antonio "L.A." Reid presented the award to Bon Jovi followed by a special surprise congratulatory video from Sir Elton John.

The evening continued as McClurkin received his award from Barry Weiss, president and CEO of Zomba Label Group. The Choir Academy of Harlem joined McClurkin on stage for a performance of his GRAMMY-winning song "Stand" featuring a surprise appearance by his 7-year-old son Matthew.

On Sept. 26, 1957, Chita Rivera and Carol Lawrence premiered on stage as "Anita" and "Maria" respectively in the iconic American show "West Side Story." In honor of the Broadway show's 50th anniversary date, these lovely ladies once again shared the stage to pay tribute to the creators of "West Side Story." On hand to receive the awards were Stephen Sondheim; Alex and Jamie Bernstein, on behalf of their father Leonard; Christopher D'Amboise on behalf of Jerome Robbins; and Carol Lawrence on behalf of Arthur Laurents. In a tribute fit for the Broadway stage, dancers performed the show's "Cool."

The evening concluded with a heartwarming tribute to Alicia Keys by Oleta Adams, who performed "If I Ain't Got You." Clive Davis, chairman and CEO of the BMG Label Group, presented the award to Keys who spoke passionately, bringing the audience to their feet — a great ending to a spectacular evening.

The evening began with a cocktail reception featuring the music of GRAMMY nominated pianist Earl Rose, where guests were welcomed by Chapter President Charlie Feldman and Executive Director Elizabeth Healy.

To keep the celebration going, VIP guests attended an after-party at the posh rooftop terrace of the SoHo Grand Hotel. The after-party was sponsored by the SoHo Grand Hotel, Glaceau, Tavalon Tea and 10 Cane Rum.

Thank you to our table sponsors: Diamond Sponsor: W.A.C. International Inc.; Platinum Sponsors: ASCAP, EMI Music Publishing, People, Scharff Weisberg, Sony/BMG, Steve Madden and Verizon; Gold Sponsors: AEG Live, BET Networks, Billboard, BMI, Delta, GFI Group Inc., Greenberg Traurig, Hard Rock International, Peter & Stacy Hochfelder, Prime Cuts Productions, SESAC, Shearman & Sterling LLP, Songwriter's Hall of Fame, Surroundings Flowers & Events (in conjunction with the Flower Council of Holland and the E.U.) and William Morris Agency; Silver Sponsors: Sierra Management, Studley, Universal and Warner Music Group.