In a landmark moment at the 68th Grammy Awards, Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny made history by winning album of the year for "Debí Tirar Más Fotos," marking the first time a Spanish-language album has received the Recording Academy's top honor. The emotional victory, witnessed by many, set the tone for an event filled with remarkable performances and memorable moments that unfolded during the extensive 3 1/2-hour broadcast.
The evening faced some lighter moments, such as Cher appearing to nearly forget the winner of record of the year, but largely was defined by powerful musical showcases. Justin Bieber delivered a stripped-down solo performance, while Lady Gaga brought an intense and energetic presence to the stage. Meanwhile, Ozzy Osbourne was commemorated through a high-energy heavy metal tribute that featured pyrotechnics and vivid theatrics.
The ceremony opened with vibrant performances from Bruno Mars and Rosé, member of the K-pop group Blackpink, who jointly performed “APT.,” a hit track inspired by a South Korean drinking game. Their dynamic set was characterized by coordinated outfits—Rosé in a white tank top and black slacks with a tie, and Mars in a matching dark suit and tie, sporting a guitar with a checkerboard strap. The pair energized the crowd with exuberant jumping, smoke effects, and spirited guitar work.
Lady Gaga followed with a distinctive performance halfway through the program, singing “Abracadabra” while adorned in a feather-laden costume complemented by a basket-shaped headpiece. Her act incorporated a gnarly cane, synth playing, and distinctive dance movements, delivering a blend of rock and funk sounds that culminated in her acceptance of the best pop vocal album award. Mars returned later in the evening to perform his latest single, “I Just Might.”
Sabrina Carpenter provided a lively and creatively staged rendition of “Manchild.” Her performance transformed the stage into an airport setting, with Carpenter embodying the role of a confident pilot. Her attire included white hot pants, a neckerchief, and a captain’s hat featuring her initials. The production included dancers portraying diverse airport and public service roles such as astronaut, UPS worker, firefighter, and emergency room doctor. Incorporating props like baggage carousels and traffic wands, she concluded by entering a plane fuselage carrying a live dove.
Contributing to the selection of emerging talent, the Grammys presented a block dedicated to the best new artist category, showcasing a variety of fresh musical styles. The Los Angeles-based band the Marías opened this segment with their bilingual dream-pop single “No One Noticed Me.” Influencer-turned-artist Addison Rae followed with “Fame Is a Gun,” performing energetically on a moving truck as she entered Crypto.com Arena. The all-female group Katseye infused the stage with high-energy gymnastics and lively choreography during their song “Gnarly.” Other new artists featured included Leon Thomas with guitar-driven “Mutt,” Alex Warren who sang “Ordinary” while moving through the audience, British singer Lola Young executing a piano-backed performance of “Messy,” and British soul artist Olivia Dean delivering an exuberant version of “Man I Need.” The showcase was rounded out by a dramatic entrance by somber, moody pop artist sombr with “12 to 12.” This sequence concluded with last year’s best new artist winner, Chappell Roan, introducing Olivia Dean as her successor.
Justin Bieber provided a notably intimate performance, appearing alone on stage in only shimmering gray boxer shorts and matching socks. His set consisted solely of his song “Yukon,” accompanied by a guitar slung over his back. Without additional musicians or visual effects, Bieber programmed and looped the song as he sang with closed eyes, facing a full-size mirror. The performance evoked a minimalistic style akin to that popularized by artists like Ed Sheeran. Bieber’s wife, Hailey, was seen enjoying the performance, while his return marked a moment after a four-year Grammy hiatus following his transition into fatherhood.
A highlight of the awards was a powerful in memoriam tribute to Ozzy Osbourne. Departing from the traditional somber presentations, the segment featured Post Malone, Chad Smith, Duff McKagan, Slash, and Andrew Watt performing a fiery rendition of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs,” complete with pyrotechnics and leather-clad dramatics. Osbourne’s wife Sharon and his children Kelly and Jack appeared visibly moved during the performance.
Following this, Ms. Lauryn Hill honored the late D’Angelo, backed by esteemed musicians Raphael Saadiq, Jon Batiste, and Anthony Hamilton, with several of his renowned songs including “Nothing Even Matters” and “Untitled (How Does It Feel).” The tribute segment extended to recognize Roberta Flack, with Hill performing classics such as “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” alongside John Legend, Chaka Khan, Leon Bridges, and Wyclef Jean.
The program also featured a spirited performance of “Trailblazer” by Reba McEntire, Brandy Clark, and Lukas Nelson, interspersed with pre-recorded commemorations from Bruce Springsteen for Brian Wilson and John Mayer for Bob Weir. Collectively, this created a robust farewell to several musical legends who passed away recently.