Grammys 2026 Serve Up Shockers, Star Power, and Political Sparks
The 2026 Grammy Awards had everything: jaw-dropping performances, record-breaking milestones, and a sprinkle of controversy that kept viewers glued to their screens.
From daring fashion statements to political messages on the red carpet, this year’s ceremony at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles made headlines for all the right—and occasionally eyebrow-raising—reasons.
Justin Bieber’s Bold Return Shakes Up the Stage
After a four-year hiatus from the Grammys, Justin Bieber made a striking comeback, stripping down to gym shorts and socks for a stripped-back performance of Yukon.
The emotional track, written about his wife Hailey, had fans and celebrities alike captivated, with cameras repeatedly cutting to her cheering in the audience.
It was intimate, raw, and undeniably memorable.
Bad Bunny Takes a Political Stand
Bad Bunny didn’t just accept his award for Best Música Urbana Album—he made a statement.
Opening his speech with an emphatic “ICE out!” the star called for compassion over hate, earning loud cheers from the crowd.
The Puerto Rican superstar turned his acceptance speech into a pointed reminder that music and politics often go hand in hand.
Sabrina Carpenter Faces PETA Backlash
Not everyone was pleased with the night’s theatrics.
Sabrina Carpenter drew criticism for bringing a live dove on stage during her performance.
PETA swiftly condemned the act, arguing that the bright lights and loud noise caused unnecessary stress for the bird.
Carpenter’s moment sparked a lively debate online about the boundaries between spectacle and animal welfare.
Chappell Roan’s Daring Red Carpet Look
Before the show even began, Chappell Roan turned heads on the red carpet in a sheer burgundy mesh gown that revealed her nipple piercings.
With black thong underwear, a gold choker, and strappy heels, the 27-year-old singer didn’t shy away from making a statement, proving once again that she thrives in the spotlight—even if it’s controversial.
Cher’s Chaos Moment
Cher, at 79, brought the house down—or at least the confusion—while presenting Record of the Year.
A teleprompter mix-up led her to mistakenly announce the late Luther Vandross as the winner, when the real award went to Kendrick Lamar and SZA for Luther.
The legendary singer laughed off the gaffe, while social media exploded in delight at the unexpected chaos.
Lady Gaga, Post Malone, and Emotional Tributes
Lady Gaga took her moment to honor her partner Michael Polansky during her Best Pop Vocal Album win, thanking him for being her creative rock.
Meanwhile, Post Malone led a heartfelt tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne, performing War Pigs with Slash, Chad Smith, and Duff McKagan as Osbourne’s family watched tearfully.
Trevor Noah Pulls No Punches
The ceremony opened with Trevor Noah’s sharp, unfiltered monologue.
He roasted Nicki Minaj, Donald Trump, Diddy, and Jeff Bezos in rapid succession, leaving the audience roaring and groaning in equal measure.
His antics set the tone for a night where no star was safe from playful—and pointed—criticism.
Kendrick Lamar Rewrites Grammy History
Quietly but powerfully, Kendrick Lamar stole the record books.
By the early hours of the ceremony, he had surpassed Jay-Z, moving from 24 to 27 Grammy wins.
The rapper’s historic achievement was highlighted by victories in Best Rap Performance, Best Melodic Rap Performance, and Best Rap Song, cementing his status as one of the most awarded artists ever.
Political Statements Shine on the Red Carpet
The Grammys weren’t just about music—fashion made a statement too.
Stars like Justin and Hailey Bieber, Kehlani, Jason Isbell, and Justin Vernon sported “ICE OUT” pins, while Billie Eilish delivered one of the night’s most stirring political lines, declaring, “No one is illegal on stolen land,” to a standing ovation before shouting a censored expletive.
Reba McEntire Finally Hits the Grammys Stage
Decades into her career, Reba McEntire finally performed at the Grammys, delivering a moving rendition of Trailblazer alongside Brandy Clark and Lukas Nelson.
The performance during the In Memoriam segment was intimate, poignant, and a long-awaited highlight for country music fans.
Triumphs, Surprises, and Unforgettable Moments
The night’s winners included Olivia Dean as Best New Artist, Lola Young’s shock Best Pop Solo Performance win, and Alex Warren powering through technical mishaps during his medley.
From Billie Eilish’s impassioned political statements to Sabrina Carpenter’s controversial stage dove, the ceremony proved that the Grammys remain a night where music, drama, fashion, and politics collide in spectacular fashion.
Full List of Winners Highlights
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Album of the Year: Bad Bunny – DeBI TiRAR MaS FOToS
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Song of the Year: Billie Eilish – WILDFLOWER
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Best Pop Solo Performance: Lola Young – Messy
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Best Pop Vocal Album: Lady Gaga – MAYHEM
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Best Rap Performance: Clipse, Pusha T and Malice feat. Kendrick Lamar & Pharrell – Chains & Whips
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Best New Artist: Olivia Dean
The full roster of winners spans pop, rap, R&B, country, jazz, Latin, and classical categories—illustrating the Grammys’ ongoing commitment to celebrating the full spectrum of musical achievement.
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