Jon Batiste will be honored with the inaugural Ray Charles “Architect of Sound” Award at the Grammy Hall of Fame Gala, the Grammy Museum announced on Thursday. The honor, which builds on the museum’s relationship with the Ray Charles Foundation, will be presented at the gala, taking place at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on May 16.
According to the announcement, the award recognizes an artist “whose influence echoes across generations. This award celebrates those who, like Charles, 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.”
Multi-Grammy winner and virtuoso pianist Batiste is the first recipient of the honor, which celebrates an artist whose impact on music reflects Charles’ pioneering spirit. He will take the stage for two special performances during the evening, which will also feature a lineup of artists to be announced soon. The event will additionally honor this year’s label honoree, Republic Records.
Batiste said, “Ray Charles is a beacon for me, a blueprint. He is a singular example of musical genius, artistic freedom and craft of the highest level that will continue to inspire humanity for generations and stand the test of time. I am honored to receive this award. It is vitally important to me to carry on our cultural legacy of true artistic greatness and lead the way for generations to come.”
Grammy Museum president/CEO Michael Sticka added, “Ray Charles was a trailblazing artist whose influence knows no bounds, and Jon Batiste is a true reflection of that legacy. Beyond his immense talent, Jon has been a dedicated partner in advancing the Grammy Museum’s mission to make music education more accessible. Honoring him with the inaugural Ray Charles ‘Architect of Sound’ Award is not just fitting—it’s a celebration of two artists who have shaped the sound of generations.”
Valerie Ervin, President of The Ray Charles Foundation, said, “Ray Charles was always pushing music forward—blending genres, breaking barriers, and inspiring generations. He would be deeply honored to have his name attached to an award that celebrates artists who share his fearless creativity and dedication to their craft. Jon Batiste embodies that spirit, and The Ray Charles Foundation is proud to join the GRAMMY Museum in recognizing his extraordinary contributions to music.”
Returning as host is CBS News journalist Anthony Mason. The show will be produced by former Grammy Awards executive producer Ken Ehrlich, alongside Ron Basile, Lindsay Saunders Carl and Lynne Sheridan, with musical direction by composer, producer, and conductor Cheche Alara.
The Gala will celebrate the 2025 Grammy Hall Of Fame inducted recordings, which include iconic recordings such as Jay-Z’s “Reasonable Doubt,” Cat Stevens’ “Tea For The Tillerman,” Santana’s “Supernatural,” and classics from Big Star, Clara Ward, Eddie Floyd, Emmylou Harris, Fela Kuti & Afrika 70, Geeshie Wiley, Gloria Estefan & Miami Sound Machine, J.D. Crowe & The New South, Linda Martell, and Luther Vandross.
