Last night marked the 68th edition of the Grammy Awards, a star-studded event highlighted by Bad Bunny’s impressive achievements and a series of political statements from winners, setting a different tone from the recent Golden Globes. Kendrick Lamar kicked off the night by winning Best Rap Album for “GNX,” solidifying his position as the most awarded rapper in Grammy history. Later, he added another accolade by winning Record of the Year for “Luther” featuring SZA. Cher’s presentation of the award was memorable for its quirky announcement and momentary mix-up.
Throughout the evening, political undertones seeped into speeches, notably when SZA encouraged listeners not to lose hope amidst turbulent times. Host Trevor Noah infused humor with political commentary, taking jabs at absentees like Nicki Minaj and making comparisons to current events. The theme of political activism continued with various artists using their platform to address social issues, including Olivia Dean and Jelly Roll.
The event saw a shift towards more politically charged statements compared to previous award shows, with artists like Bad Bunny making powerful statements against controversial policies. The night also featured notable wins by Lady Gaga, Canadian artists, and engaging performances from Justin Bieber, Post Malone, and others. The emotional highlight came as Bad Bunny became the first all-Spanish album to win Album of the Year, dedicating his award to dream-chasers who had to leave their homelands. The evening concluded with a mix of music, messages, and memorable moments.