BEVERLY HILLS, California (AP) – Kanye showed off his new kicks to admirers. Rihanna braved the rain sans umbrella. Willow Smith danced to the music, and Beyonce gave out hugs and took pictures with well-wishers.
There were starry sights everywhere you looked at Jay Z’s annual Roc Nation pre-Grammy brunch Saturday. The event was held once again at a posh mansion in Beverly Hills, but this year, intermittent rain put a damper on the glamorous outdoor garden setting.
Event planners were prepared, however, to shield the likes of Nicki Minaj, Diplo, Childish Gambino, other celebrities and VIP industry guests with tents, where most guests remained huddled during the four-hour event.
Other guests included Michael Bolton, who was seen bopping his head to hip-hop, plus Demi Lovato, Janelle Monae, Kelly Rowland, Miguel, J. Cole, Nick Jonas and Keke Palmer.
Kim Kardashian, whose stepfather, Bruce Jenner, was unhurt in a fatal car accident in Malibu on Saturday, was present with her husband, who held court at one point with Jay Z and Beyonce.
The Roc Nation brunch has become one of the most coveted invites of Grammy week, and getting an invite doesn’t mean that you’ll get in. Last year, a rush of people caused security to close things off, leaving some out of luck.
This year, few showed up fashionably late, getting there early to avoid the crowds. Guests like Natasha Bedingfield and songwriter Diane Warren were brought to the private house in a shuttle to avoid traffic problems.
The Grammys are scheduled for Sunday.
