John Billings

For John Billings, it’s just another day at the office. Well, if the office is a secluded home in Ridgway, Colorado. Although Colorado was largely underrepresented at the Grammy Recording Awards this year, they made an impact in another way.

Though you probably haven’t heard of the masterful designer who makes one of the most important things in music, maybe you should. He goes by the name John Billings, and he makes the traditional Grammy trophy. Every year, John Billings and his team of 4 make around 350 awards, by hand!

Known locally as “The Grammy Man,” he is not the kind of person you would have thought to be making one of the most fundamental things in music. Most award shows mass produce their trophies in factories, which is what makes Billings’ so special. Everything down to the curves is customized down to the last detail. What makes it so much better is the fact that it is locally made!

John Billings’ impact on music is immeasurable, so next time you see this iconic trophy, you’ll know where it is from.