Michelle Obama secured her second Grammy win on Sunday, triumphing in the Best Audiobook, Narration, and Storytelling Recording category for her latest work, “The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times.” The former first lady, aged 60, lent her voice to this compelling audiobook, a reflective compilation of stories from her life as a public figure, wife, mother, and woman.
The book, released in November 2022, not only earned a prestigious spot on the New York Times’ Bestseller list but also garnered Michelle Obama an Emmy nomination for a Netflix special alongside Oprah. “The Light We Carry” seamlessly combines elements of memoir and self-help, drawing inspiration from the tumultuous events of 2020-2021, marked by political upheavals and the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an exclusive interview with People magazine before the book’s release, Michelle Obama shared insights into how she coped with the stress and anxiety of those challenging years. The book serves as a personal guide, offering the former first lady’s reflections on change, challenge, and power. She expressed, “This is how I stay visible in a world that doesn’t necessarily see a tall Black woman. This is how I stay armored up when I’m attacked. The book is that offering.”
Competing against notable figures such as Sen. Bernie Sanders, Meryl Streep, William Shatner, and record producer Rick Rubin, Michelle Obama’s victory marks her second Grammy win in the spoken word category. This achievement aligns her with her husband, former President Barack Obama, who also boasts two Grammy awards in the same category.
While Michelle Obama was not present at the ceremony to accept the award, presenter Esperanza Spalding gladly accepted it on her behalf. The former first lady’s consistent recognition in the Grammy Awards reflects the enduring impact of her storytelling prowess, as witnessed in her previous win for the audiobook of her first memoir, “Becoming,” in 2020.
“The Light We Carry” emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, born out of the questions Michelle Obama received from individuals seeking guidance on coping. The memoir/self-help book provides a thoughtful response to these inquiries, offering a unique perspective from the 58 years of her life.
In achieving this latest Grammy win, Michelle Obama solidifies her position as a literary and cultural force, sharing profound narratives that resonate across diverse audiences. Her contributions in the realm of spoken word recordings continue to leave an indelible mark, matching the achievements of her husband and former President Barack Obama in the world of music accolades.
