GRAMMY PREVIEW Q&A: LAUREN SPENCER SMITH

What do the Grammys mean to you?
Growing up, we didn’t have cable. I remember watching the Grammys on YouTube. I would search for every artist’s speech and was inspired by all of them. I used to scream at my computer, believing that it was going to be me some day. At the time, a Grammy felt like a trophy only the most famous could win—of course, that’s how it felt to a nine-year-old.

As I got older, I realized the Recording Academy is really about appreciation. It’s not just for a certain level of success but for artists who make a piece of art that inspires others. These musicians create art that enables listeners to feel something—whether that emotion is happiness, sadness or anger. The Grammys take great pride in carefully selecting extraordinary artists and songs that do just that. To me, the Academy is about appreciating the time and effort that goes into creating music. It’s about appreciating the lives of creatives and recognizing the hardships they’ve endured in order to write vulnerable lyrics. It’s about building a community, appreciating every genre and embracing all artists who set out to make a song that can help others. The Grammys are about inspiration and appreciation.

Why would a Grammy for “Fingers Crossed” be especially meaningful?
My favorite part about being a musician is creating songs that are healing not just for me but for my fans. “Fingers Crossed”was an extremely therapeutic song to write, which made it so special. I felt so much love and support when the song was released, which was very exciting. The most amazing part was knowing how many people relate to the song, feel closure from listening and experience comfort through the music.

"Fingers Crossed” allowed me to meet so many incredible writers, singers, producers, labels and fans. This community is so loving, and I feel lucky to get to work with everyone daily.Without this song and the network it created for me, my life would be radically different, and I wouldn’t be where I am today.

I wouldn’t have been able to build a community of fans who listen to my music and appreciate my stories. “Fingers Crossed” was the first song to resonate with a large audience, and it became the turning point in my career. This song is already special to me, but receiving a Grammy would be an honor and make it even more special.