Last year, the District was lucky enough to have representation at the Grammy Awards from two talented residents, Muhsinah (now saƒia) and Christylez. This year, we’re proud to see that three local artists have received Grammy nods.

Carolyn Malachi has been nominated for “Best Urban/Alternative Performance” for her song “Orion.” Malachi’s smooth intergalactic-themed love song with the stunning vocal introduction is in the same category as “Tightrope” from Janelle Monae & Big Boi, “Still” by Eric Roberson, “Little One” by Bilal and that expletive-filled song from Cee-Lo Green.

Raheem DeVaughn‘s album The Love & War Masterpeace which is, as the title suggests, part -socio-political fire and part-sexual healing, is up for “Best R&B Album.” The other albums in this category are Back to Me from former American Idol Fantasia, Another Round from Jaheim, Still Standing from Monica and The Roots & John Legend’s collaborative effort Wake Up!.

The godfather of go-go, Chuck Brown, has also received a nomination for “Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals” for his collaboration with Jill Scott and Marcus Miller on this year’s release We Got This. Other nominees include equally regal performers (Aretha Franklin & Ronald Isley are nominated for “You’ve Got a Friend,”) multiple nominee recipients (John Legend & The Roots’ song “Shine” from Wake Up!), young Turks (Chris Brown & Tank’s “Take My Time”) and smooth jazz/soft rock staples (Sade’s titular “Soldier of Love”).

We offer our congratulations to all three artists for their nominations and wish all of them good luck. The 53rd Annual Grammy Awards will be broadcast on February 13th.