Grammy Awards Highlight Wins, Performances, and Social Statements
The Grammy Awards ceremony featured several notable wins and performances, alongside artist statements on social and political issues.
Lady Gaga's Triumphs and Advice
Lady Gaga won Best Pop Vocal Album for "Mayhem." In her acceptance speech, she reflected on her long music career, thanking her partner Michael Polansky for encouraging her return to pop. She also acknowledged collaborators Andrew Watt, Cirkut, and Gesaffelstein.
Lady Gaga advised women in music to trust their instincts and advocate for their ideas, emphasizing discipline, hard work, and craftsmanship.
Lady Gaga also performed "Abracadabra" from her album "Mayhem," delivering a committed and intense rendition.
Bad Bunny on Immigration and Economic Impact
Bad Bunny secured the Best Música Urbana Album award for "Debà Tirar Más Fotos." During his speech, he addressed immigration issues directly:
"We're not savage, we're not animals, we're not aliens, we are humans and we are Americans."
He advocated for love over hate and for unity. Host Trevor Noah also acknowledged Bad Bunny's successful residency in Puerto Rico, which contributed $400 million to the island's economy. Noah highlighted the artist's efforts to keep tickets affordable for locals and his partnerships with local hotels.
Olivia Dean Celebrates Heritage
Olivia Dean was named Best New Artist. She thanked her manager and team, highlighting her identity as "a granddaughter of an immigrant."
Olivia Dean stated, "I am a product of bravery, and those people need to be celebrated."
Earlier in the evening, she delivered a similar message about immigration during her acceptance. As part of a medley, Olivia Dean performed "Man I Need."
Jelly Roll's Message of Faith and Redemption
Jelly Roll won Contemporary Country Album for "Beautifully Broken." He thanked Jesus and country radio, crediting them with his journey from incarceration and drug use to a music career.
He emphasized that "Jesus is for everybody" and is not owned by one political party or record label.
Notable Performances
The evening also showcased several significant performances:
- Bruno Mars performed his new single "I Just Might." Joni Mitchell, who won her 11th Grammy during the ceremony, was among those seen reacting to his performance.
- Justin Bieber made his first major performance in four years, giving a soulful rendition of his track "Yukon."
- The Best New Artist medley also featured Alex Warren performing "Ordinary," Lola Young with "Messy," and sombr with "12 to 12."
Broader Social Commentary
Throughout the evening, multiple artists, including Bad Bunny and Olivia Dean, expressed anti-ICE and pro-immigration sentiments. Some wore related pins and made statements during interviews and speeches, underscoring a recurring theme of advocacy during the awards ceremony.