RAYE’s “Ice Cream Man” will receive Harry Belafonte Best Song for Social Change Award during Grammy Week 2026with the Recording Academy honoring the song in the days leading up to the 68th Grammy Awards. The recognition places the track among the most socially impactful works recognized by the Academy this year.
Written by RAY alongside BloodPop and Mike Sabbath“Ice Cream Man” will be formally celebrated at Special Merit Awards Ceremony on Saturday, January 31at Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles. The event takes place on the eve of the 2026 Grammys, which will be broadcast live on Sunday, February 1 from the Crypto.com Arena.
Released on RAYE’s critically acclaimed debut album My 21st Century Bluesthis poignant number has stood out for its unflinching subject matter and emotional clarity. Using personal experience, “Ice Cream Man” confronts sexual violence and the structures that allow abuse to go unchallenged. Through raw honesty, it amplifies the voices of survivors of sexual abuse and underscores the urgent need for both empowerment and justice for them. Its sharp storytelling has made it one of the most talked about and impactful tracks of RAYE’s career.
Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. said the song reflects music’s ability to raise awareness and give voice to those who are often not heard, in line with the mission behind the Harry Belafonte Prize.
“This song is a powerful reminder of music’s unique ability to raise awareness, inspire change and give a voice to those who are too often unheard. Its bravery embodies everything this award stands for, and we look forward to recognizing it alongside its songwriters at this year’s Special Merit Awards Ceremony.”
The 2026 Grammys week leads to the main ceremony on CBS and Paramount+, with the premiere ceremony streaming earlier that day on live.grammy.com and YouTube. For RAYE, the honor marks another important moment in a career defined by artistic control, honesty and cultural resonance.
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