Joey Alexander rehearses for the 2016 Grammy Awards
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Jazz prodigy Joey Alexander's brief, yet dazzling performance on the Grammys Awards stage on Monday night wowed the audience, immediately becoming an internet sensation.
"As an artist, I know how much heart and soul we put into our music and how much we give of ourselves to create the art that will connect with you. We have to ensure that the work of these gifted artists is truly valued so that our industry not only survives but thrives for our next generation. Speaking of which, here's this year's youngest Grammy nominee, 12-year-old Joey Alexander," said three-time Grammy winner Common as he introduced the musician at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.
Joey's performance, which ran for a little over one minute, received a standing ovation from the audience, which included musicians Taylor Swift and Bruno Mars seated in the front row, and quickly earned praise from prominent media such as the BBC, The Telegraph and Entertainment Weekly.
"You may not win any award. However, to be nominated and invited to perform in Grammy's gala, that is one "Giant Step" forward. Congratulation young man!" said one commenter on The Grammys' official YouTube page on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Au6-EK7jCGM.
A picture of him posing with actor Johnny Depp published on his official Instagram account, @joeyalexandermusic, and has gained over 4,000 likes and 180 comments.
"Ok Joey, you make me jealous now," commented one Instagrammer.
Born in Denpasar, Bali, in 2003, Joey made history by becoming the first Indonesian musician to be nominated for a Grammy. His single, 'Giant Steps', was in the running for Best Improvised Jazz Solo, while his album, My Favorite Things, was among the nominees for Best Jazz Instrumental Album.
According to his official website, Joey began playing the piano at the age of 6. His father, who was an amateur musician, introduced him to the instrument and nurtured his swing and improvisation skills by introducing him to classic jazz recordings and taking him to jam sessions in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey has been invited to perform at prestigious events, including the Rochester Jazz Festival, Newport Jazz Festival and Jazz at the Lincoln Center. He also won an international improvisation contest in Odessa, Ukraine, in 2013. (+)
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