In attempt to enhance the show this upcoming Grammys weekend, CBS and the Recording Academy have pieced together a TV special that shows how Whitney Houston's sudden death changed the course of Grammy preparations. The legendary singer tragically passed the night before the 2012 Grammys. The one-hour TV special captures the thoughts and reactions of artists and crew members as they reflect on the news and make last minute adjustments.
Unfortunately, although sentimental and sweet, the story doesn't take a whole hour to tell, according to New York Daily News. As a result, the special is packed with promotion material for the 2013 Grammys themselves.
Despite its promotions, the TV special does have its moments. It's true that the Grammy team had to make some difficult and trying decisions in the wake of Houston's death. Such an epic internationally televised event such as the Grammys can't simply be rescheduled.
What came first was the Recording Academy's decision to enlist Jennifer Hudson to sing "I Will Always Love You" as a tribute to the late singer. Hudson's performance was impeccable and set the tone for the Grammys as a celebration of Houston's life and career.
This year's host, LL Cool J appears in the TV special as well, saying, "It was a tricky situation. I was in kind of a no-man's land because you're both mourning and celebrating." He also says it was a strange "U-turn" to switch from Bruce Springsteen's high-energy opening to Hudson's somber and touching Houston tribute.
Regardless, the TV special commemorates Houston's life and showcases how loved she was. Despite her death, the Grammys still went on, celebrating the industry that she loved so much.
The Whitney Houston tribute "The Grammys Will Go On: A Death in the Family" will air Saturday, Feb. 9 on CBS at 9 p.m.