January 19, 2008 1:44

Striking writers urged to sign Grammy deal

But the fate of the awards show is still uncertain

Photo Gallery: Beyonce

The Recording Academy is asking its members to sign a petition urging the Writers Guild of America to strike a deal for the upcoming Grammy Awards.

The agreement would grant a waiver to striking writers allowing them to work on the music awards show.

The fate of the February 10 show has been in doubt since the strike began in November, and looked even gloomier after the Golden Globes ceremony aired as a press conference last week.

The petition reads: "As a member of The Recording Academy, I would like to express my strong support for the Grammy Awards, and to encourage the WGA to accept the interim agreement offered by the producers of the Grammys.... During this important 50th anniversary year, I support the Grammys and strongly urge the guild to do the same."

The link to the online petition was sent by Recording Academy President Neil Portnow to its members yesterday (January 17) via email, reports the Associated Press.

Management for Beyonce and Foo Fighters have confirmed that they will attend the Grammy Awards regardless of the agreement outcome, as previously reported.

The Recording Academy said that they hope an agreement can be reached, but the Writers Guild said it is unlikely.

--By our Los Angeles staff.
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