Grammys 2013: Parties are almost as big as the awards show

As music’s biggest night approaches, so does a tidal wave of parties. The Grammys reel in star power like few events of its kind, and there is no end to the parade of industry fetes seeking to share the spotlight. Here’s a roundup of some of the most noteworthy soirees.

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FRIDAY

23rd annual MusiCares Person of the Year tribute to Bruce Springsteen

The Boss happens to be a 20-time Grammy winner. He’ll be honored in a star-studded gala at the Los Angeles Convention Center by the MusiCares Foundation, which provides support to musicians in financial, medical or personal need. A reception, silent auction, dinner and tribute concert will celebrate Springsteen’s nearly 40-year recording history.

Vibe Inaugural Impact Awards at the Sunset Tower Hotel

Vibe magazine is celebrating its 20th anniversary by issuing its inaugural impact award to Mary J. Blige (who has often been a Vibe cover model). A ritzy dinner and an awards ceremony will be followed by a party DJed by Nick Cannon.

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SATURDAY

The Pre-Grammy Gala at the Beverly Hilton

Clive Davis (and the Recording Academy) again host the most hotly anticipated party of Grammy season. Tickets to the event, which is expected to draw around 1,500 guests, are almost impossible to get unless you are of the very VIP type. That’s why once inside you can’t turn your head without seeing a big-name star (this year the Foo Fighters, Bruno Mars, Quincy Jones and John Mayer are expected to attend, among many others). Impromptu performances by celebrated vocalists are the hallmark of the party, which promises to be extra lively this year after things took a tragic turn in 2012 when Whitney Houston was found dead in the hotel hours before the event.

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SUNDAY

Warner Music Group’s Annual Grammy Party at the Chateau Marmont

This exclusive, 300-person event follows the awards ceremony and celebrates Warner Music Group’s many notable nominees including the Black Keys, Flo Rida, Hunter Hayes, Muse, Ed Sheeran, Blake Shelton, Skrillex and Zac Brown. Celebrities expected include Quincy Jones, Florence and the Machine, Kate Hudson, Ludacris, Juliette Lewis, Julia Stiles and Brandy.

Justin Timberlake at the Palladium

JT is stepping off the big screen and onto the big stage again. Finally! Fans are freaking out about this rare and intimate post-Grammy performance that is sure to feature more than a few very special guests (Jay-Z, anyone?). The show is sold out but tickets for two are showing up on Craigslist starting at $550. Sell your suit and tie, this should be good.

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