Article Contributed by 2b entertainment
Published on 2026-03-18
The Grammy Museum® will honor multi-Grammy® Award-winning singer, songwriter and pianist Norah Jones with the Ray Charles Architect of Sound Award at the Recording Academy® and Grammy Museum’s Grammy Hall Of Fame® Gala on May 8, 2026, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. The evening will also honor the 2026 Grammy Hall Of Fame inducted recordings, which were announced in February. Warner Records will be recognized as the 2026 label honoree for its enduring contributions to recorded music and its role in championing artists across generations. Tables and seats are now available for purchase HERE.
Inspired by the boundless genius of Ray Charles — whose legacy as a performer, pianist, songwriter, producer and entrepreneur forever transformed the musical landscape — the Ray Charles Architect of Sound Award recognizes an artist whose influence echoes across generations. The award celebrates artists who transcend genre, redefine creativity and leave an indelible mark on music and culture. Whether through innovation in sound, groundbreaking artistry or an unwavering commitment to musical excellence, the recipient embodies the pioneering spirit of one of music’s greatest architects.
With a career defined by timeless songwriting, unmistakable musicianship and a singular voice that has resonated across jazz, pop, soul, and country, Jones has built a body of work that is both intimate and influential. Her artistry has shaped the sound of modern music for more than two decades, making her a fitting recipient of an honor that celebrates enduring creative impact.
“I’m so honored to receive the Ray Charles Architect of Sound Award,” said Jones. “Ray Charles was my musical hero, and he changed the way so many of us hear and feel music. To be recognized in connection with his legacy, and as part of a night that also celebrates such important recorded works, is special for me.”
“Norah Jones represents the kind of artistry that leaves a lasting imprint on music and culture,” said Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. “Her work reflects a deep musicality, emotional honesty and a spirit of exploration that echoes the legacy of Ray Charles himself. We are honored to celebrate Norah, this year’s Grammy Hall Of Fame recordings and Warner Records as part of an evening dedicated to the enduring impact of great music.”
“Norah Jones has created a body of work defined by emotional honesty, musical depth and a voice that is instantly recognizable,” said Michael Sticka, President/CEO of the Grammy Museum. “Her artistry has resonated across generations and genres, which makes her a remarkable recipient of this honor. We’re also proud to recognize Warner Records and to celebrate this year’s Grammy Hall Of Fame inducted recordings — enduring works that continue to shape our understanding of music’s history and impact.”
“Ray Charles was a singular artist whose influence continues to reach across every corner of music, and this award was created to honor that same spirit of originality, excellence and lasting impact,” said Valerie Ervin, President of The Ray Charles Foundation. “Norah Jones is an artist whose work reflects those qualities so beautifully, and we are thrilled to see her recognized with this year’s Architect of Sound Award.”
Jones will take the stage for a special performance during the evening, which will also feature one-of-a-kind musical moments from a lineup of artists to be announced soon.
Returning as host is esteemed journalist Anthony Mason. The show will be produced by former Grammy Awards® Executive Producer Ken Ehrlich, alongside Ron Basile, Chantel Sausedo, Lindsay Saunders Carl and Lynne Sheridan, with musical direction by Grammy and Latin Grammy® Award-winning composer, producer and conductor Cheche Alara.
The 2026 Grammy Hall Of Fame inducted recordings include 14 titles that span nearly a century of recorded music and range from 2Pac’s All Eyez On Me to Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814 to Radiohead’s OK Computer. Others include recordings by Alice Coltrane, Bertha “Chippie” Hill, Ella Jenkins, Eric B. & Rakim, Funkadelic, Heart, Lucinda Williams, Nick Drake, The Rouse Brothers, Selena, and The Soul Stirrers. The full list of past inducted recordings can be seen here.
For sponsorship opportunities, reach out to halloffame@grammymuseum.org.
2026 Grammy Hall Of Fame Inducted Recordings
ALL EYEZ ON ME
2Pac
Album
AMOR PROHIBIDO
Selena
Album
CAR WHEELS ON A GRAVEL ROAD
Lucinda Williams
Album
DREAMBOAT ANNIE
Heart
Album
“JESUS GAVE ME WATER”
The Soul Stirrers
Single
JOURNEY IN SATCHIDANANDA
Alice Coltrane
Album
MAGGOT BRAIN
Funkadelic
Album
OK COMPUTER
Radiohead
Album
“ORANGE BLOSSOM SPECIAL”
The Rouse Brothers
Single
PAID IN FULL
Eric B. & Rakim
Album
PINK MOON
Nick Drake
Album
RHYTHM NATION 1814
Janet Jackson
Album
“TROUBLE IN MIND”
Bertha “Chippie” Hill
Single
YOU’LL SING A SONG AND I’LL SING A SONG
Ella Jenkins
Album
