Apple Turns Ariana Grande, Florida Georgia Line and Khalid Into Singing Memojis for the Grammys

Grammys watchers will probably remember Apple Music’s advertising on last year’s telecast, which featured “animojis”—emoji animals—singing two nominated songs: “Stir Fry” by rap trio Migos, and “Redbone” by Childish Gambino. 

This year, Apple is going one better. It’s planning to air three 60-second spots on the Grammys, instead of just two. And instead of having stand-ins for the musical talent (last year, a dog sang “Stir Fry” and an alien sang “Redbone”), the new spots feature the talent themselves. Well, “memojis” that look like the talent. 

Check out the spots below. They feature the chart-topping “7 Rings” by Ariana Grande; the new song “Talk” by Khalid, which debuted Thursday; and the fan-favorite “Simple” by Florida Georgia Line.

In addition to the spots, Apple Music is putting up out-of-home ads around the Staples Center in Los Angeles featuring Grande, Kacey Musgraves, H.E.R. and other artists. 

Ironically, Grande won’t be attending the Grammys and has had a bit of a scuffle with the Recording Academy in recent days, as you can see below.

i’ve kept my mouth shut but now you’re lying about me. i can pull together a performance over night and you know that, Ken. it was when my creativity & self expression was stifled by you, that i decided not to attend. i hope the show is exactly what you want it to be and more. ?

— Ariana Grande (@ArianaGrande) February 7, 2019

i offered 3 different songs. it’s about collaboration. it’s about feeling supported. it’s about art and honesty. not politics. not doing favors or playing games. it’s just a game y’all.. and i’m sorry but that’s not what music is to me.

— Ariana Grande (@ArianaGrande) February 7, 2019