Where the 2011 Grammy Awards Took Place
The 53rd Annual Grammy Awards in 2011 were held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. This marked a return to Los Angeles after the 2010 ceremony in Nashville, restoring a familiar venue for many viewers and performers.
Date and Ceremony Details
The ceremony occurred on February 13, 2011, following the traditional early-February slot that situates the Grammys mid-season among major music awards. The Staples Center, a multipurpose arena and long‑time awards venue, hosted the broadcast live.
Notable Performances and Moments
Performers included Foo Fighters, who opened the show; Eminem, who performed with Skylar Grey, Rihanna, and Adam Levine; and Beyoncé, who delivered a critically praised solo rendition of "Halo." Other highlights featured Arcade Fire, Susan Boyle, and a tribute to James Brown.
Key Competitive Results
Album of the Year went to Arcade Fire for The Suburbs. Record of the Year was awarded to "Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon. Other major winners included Kelly Clarkson, who won three awards, and Eminem, who won two.
Major Categories at a Glance
| Category | Winner | Work |
|---|---|---|
| Album of the Year | Arcade Fire | The Suburbs |
| Record of the Year | Kings of Leon | "Use Somebody" |
| Song of the Year | Carlos Santana (songwriter) | ", The Game of Love" |
| Best New Artist | Esperanza Spalding | — |
Venue History and Context
The Staples Center has been a mainstay for the Grammys since 2000, hosting the ceremony multiple times over the years. Its selection in 2011 continued a pattern of using large, flexible arenas capable of accommodating broadcast production, artists, and audiences at scale.
Legacy and Long‑Term Reference Value
The 2011 Grammys are remembered for a strong live broadcast, a mix of established and emerging winners, and performances that spanned rock, pop, R&B, and country. The ceremony reinforced the Grammys’ position as a midseason awards anchor and documented a moment of transition for several major artists.
Quick Reference
- Date: February 13, 2011
- Venue: Staples Center, Los Angeles, California
- Award: 53rd Annual Grammy Awards
- Album of the Year: Arcade Fire, The Suburbs
- Record of the Year: Kings of Leon, "Use Somebody"
Tags
Grammy Awards 2011, 53rd Grammy Awards, Staples Center Los Angeles 2011, February 13 2011 Grammys