The Recording Academy Celebrates Frankie Valli, the Clash, and Prince With Lifetime Achievement Award

With the Grammy Awards scheduled to kick off in February, many singers and songwriters anxiously await to see if their hard work received recognition. Although still a few months away, it appears that stars like Frankie Valli, Prince, and The Clash will be honored a day before the Grammy Awards during a special ceremony. And given their contributions to the music industry over the last several decades, each received a 2025 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. 

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Releasing the full list of recipients on Friday, December 20th, the Recording Academy revealed that The Clash, Valli, and Prince won the coveted award. The performers joined other singers like Dr. Bobby Lee, Roxanne Shante, Taj Mahal, and Frankie Beverly. Outside of the Lifetime Achievement Awards, producer Glyn Johns, who worked with The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, will receive the Trustees Award. 

Releasing a statement about the recipients this year, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. wrote, “It’s an amazing privilege to honor this eclectic group of music icons during the year’s biggest week in music.”

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Prince Left A Career That Continues To Thrive And Entertain

Detailing what it took for singers like Prince to earn the award, Mason Jr. insisted, “Each of this year’s Special Merit Award recipients has left an indelible mark on music, from paving the way for others to innovation that forever has changed the trajectory of the musical landscape. We can’t wait to celebrate this group and their achievements in February.”

While passing away back in April 2016, Prince left behind a legacy that continues to expand. Throughout his time on stage, the singer produced numerous hit songs and sold over 100 million albums worldwide. Besides his album sales, Prince also landed a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame back in 2004. 

Although the 67th Annual Grammy Awards take place on Sunday, February 2nd, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on CBS and Paramount+, the Recording Academy will spend the entire week celebrating the music industry. Wanting to honor those who continue to contribute and propel music into the future, the Crypto Arena in Los Angeles looked to welcome stars like Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Sabrina Carpenter, and Chappell Roan.

(Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)