On Sunday, Feb. 1, the 68th Annual Grammy Awards reaffirmed music’s crucial role in connecting society through a simple language all of mankind can understand. Although hosted in Los Angeles by Trevor Noah, the Grammys captivated millions of fans at home through electrifying performances, emotional dedications, and impactful speeches, celebrating the greatest music of the past year.
To kick off the night, Bruno Mars and Rosé performed their hit single, “APT.,” bringing energy and excitement to the Grammy stage. Other performers included Sabrina Carpenter, Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, and Tyler the Creator. Most notably, the “In Memoriam” segment was sung by Country Legend Reba McEntire as her first ever Grammy performance and Ms. Lauryn Hill, who returned back to the stage for the first time since 1999.
Additionally, the Grammys showcased all eight nominees for “Best New Artist” in a performance medley, building anticipation for Olivia Dean’s first Grammy win. To recap some highlights of the award ceremony, Billie Eilish secured her third “Song of the Year” win with “WILDFLOWER,” while Kendrick Lamar and SZA took home “Record of the Year” with “Luther.” Lamar and Bad Bunny were the two biggest winners of the night—both making Grammy history. Lamar became the most-decorated rapper with 27 Grammys, while Bad Bunny’s “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS” became the first fully Spanish-language album to win “Album of the Year.” In the past, the Recording Academy has faced controversy over their long-term racial bias favoring white artists. However, along with “Golden” from the Kpop Demon Hunters becoming the first K-pop song to win a Grammy, Bad Bunny’s win signifies a revolutionary change within inclusivity in the music industry.
Although the Grammys highlight new and upcoming artists, a portion of Grammy Week is also dedicated to celebrating the artists fans have continued to love over the years. Cher, one of the most influential figures in Pop music, was honored with the “Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award,” and Pharrell Williams, who has redefined hip hop and music production, received the prestigious “Dr. Dre Global Impact Award” for his transformative impact over the years.
Even more, the Grammys isn’t just a celebration of music—it’s a time our favorite artists are given one of the world’s biggest platforms to express their political opinions. In light of the social injustices infecting American society today, many winners throughout the night raised awareness by speaking out against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during their speeches.
“Before I say thanks to God, I’m gonna say ICE out. We’re not savage, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens, we are humans and we are Americans,” said Bad Bunny.
Despite inevitable controversy online, Eilish, Kehlani, and Dean also publicly criticized ICE during their acceptance speeches, while many other artists wore “ICE Out” pins on the red carpet.
Overall, the 68th Annual Grammy Awards was a successful and compelling reminder that there is so much more to music than just the lyrics and melodies. We all need music. Through the tears, raw emotion, and sheer passion for justice, this year’s award ceremony reveals the humanity behind the songs we hear online. With every award received, a little girl or boy watching at home is reminded that their dreams are never too far-fetched to achieve.