A fan shared this video snippet on Instagram last night – it’s a fond memory to be there as nominee and presenter in 1988. On this night the recipients of the award I presented with Patrick Swayze was Anita Baker for ‘Rapture’ – an R&B classic album. It’s beautiful to be reminded I was a part of her celebration that night.

In the 90’s I returned as a presenter 3 times.

I really try not to put down the commercial music of this era because there is some good and of course each generation of youth has their music they will look back and reflect on their high school years..I don’t even really watch awards shows anymore to be honest. Most music fans gravitate to their high school years and why the music business will always be primarily targeted to youth.

What I’ve learned is awards and accolades are a cool thing to experience and industry politics aside –  it is the artistry and the quality of music and doing what you love that is the most enduring. So to any veteran or aspiring artist  – just keep being yourself, taking risks and being true to your craft..that’s often different from being a pop star…not always but often.

Rest in Peace Patrick Swayze, he was super nice that evening and left behind memorable film moments.