Rockford's list of Grammy-nominated stars grows to include pianist, composer Emily Bear

ROCKFORD — In a little over a month, the 64th Annual Grammys will take place at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.

Unlike big cities like Los Angeles, Rockford isn't exactly known for producing critically acclaimed musicians, but with the recent nomination of Rockford native Emily Bear, the Screw City can claim a handful of artists who have either been nominated or won a Grammy in recent years.

More: 'Bridgerton'-inspired album catapults Rockford's Emily Bear to no. 1 on iTunes

Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams is most notably known for her work as a singer in the Grammy award-winning group Destiny's Child. The Rockford native was joined by Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland, and the three went on to be nominated nine times between 1999 and 2005. In 2000, the group won a Grammy for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for their song "Say My Name," and won the same award again in 2001 for the song "Survivor."

James "Big Jim" Wright

James "Big Jim" Wright was a performer, producer, and songwriter who worked with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, and Michael Jackson. Wright was nominated three times and in 2005 he won a Grammy for Album of the year for "The Emancipation Of Mimi," and in 2007 won a Grammy for R&B Album of the year for "Funk This." The Rockford native who first harnessed his craft at Allen Chapel AME Church died at the age of 52 in 2018. A service was held in his honor at Coronado Performing Arts Center.

Jake Runestad

Jake Runestad is a composer whose work on the album "The Hope Of Loving," which was performed by the choir Conspirare, was nominated for best choral performance in the 62nd annual Grammy Awards. Runestad found his passion for composing as a saxophonist in the Guilford High School Viking's band.

Emily Bear

Emily Bear is pianist, singer, songwriter, and composer, and Rockford's most recent Grammy-nominated artist. Her album with Abigail Barlow "The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical," has been nominated for Best Musical Theater Album in upcoming 64th Annual Grammys. The album shot to No. 1 on the iTunes pop album chart when it was released on Sept. 10.

Shaquil Manigault: smanigault@gannett.com; @RRstarShaquil

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Rockford's Grammy-nominated stars has Michelle Williams, Jack Runestad