2012 Grammy Awards Preview

Are you ready for the music industry’s biggest night of the year – Sunday’s (Feb. 12) 54th annual Grammy Awards? Here’s everything you need to know about the classic rockers who are nominated for Grammys and the ones performing during the show.

To be honest, there aren’t a ton of classic rockers up for major awards this year. Jeff Beck snagged perhaps the biggest nomination, having a chance to win the Best Rock Album award for his album ‘Rock N’ Roll Party Honoring Les Paul.’ Beyond that, the next most prestigious honor in the classic rock world would be for Best Blues Album, which will feature no less than three members of the Allman Brothers Band facing off against each other with their various solo projects. (The Allmans will also receive a lifetime achievement award at the big event.)

Elsewhere, Paul McCartney and his former band Wings are up for Best Historical Record for the deluxe re-issue of their ‘Band on the Run’ album, while Bruce Springsteen, Sting and Keith Richards (for his production work) all received nominations in the Best Boxed Set or Limited Edition Packaging category.

But let’s face it, more people tune in for the performances than the awarding of hardware, and classic rock is well represented on the stage this year. Just recently announced is the much-hyped onstage reunion of the Beach Boys, who haven’t performed together in more than 20 years. The Beach Boys will be joined by current Grammy nominees Foster the People and Maroon 5 for their set.

Other artists slated to hit the stage include Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Paul McCartney, and Neil Young, who will take part in a scheduled tribute to McCartney. Meanwhile, another former Beatle, Ringo Starr, is scheduled to present an award during the ceremony.

Most of the awards listed above likely will be handed out during the Grammy pre-telecast, which will be webcast live online starting at 4PM ET here. The 54th annual Grammy Awards will be broadcast live from Los Angeles on CBS on Sunday night at 8PM ET.

You can see a full list of the Grammy nominees right here. Be sure to visit Ultimate Classic Rock throughout the night Sunday for the latest Grammy news, all the winners, recaps on performances, any big surprises and whatever else that may come up.