2025 Grammys Recap: Winners, Highlights & Tributes

A Ceremony of Tributes

In response to the devastating wildfires that ravaged Los Angeles in early 2025, the 67th Annual Grammy Awards transformed into a platform for both celebration and philanthropy. The Recording Academy and its charitable arm, MusiCares, launched the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort, initially donating $1 million to support those affected. By the night of the ceremony, this initiative had garnered over $3.2 million, with at least $7 million raised during the broadcast. 

Throughout the evening, performances and segments were dedicated to Los Angeles. The band Dawes, whose members Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith lost their homes in the fires, performed Randy Newman's "I Love L.A." alongside John Legend, Sheryl Crow, and Brittany Howard. Billie Eilish, a native of Los Angeles, delivered a heartfelt rendition of "Birds of a Feather," accompanied by her brother Finneas, against a backdrop of the Southern California mountains. Notably, Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga performed a rendition of "California Dreamin'" to tribute the city. The event also featured a moving tribute to the late Quincy Jones, who passed away in November of 2024, with performances by Stevie Wonder, Janelle Monáe, and others.

Most Awarded Artists of the Night

Kendrick Lamar emerged as the most awarded artist, securing five Grammys, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year for "Not Like Us," as well as Best Rap Song, Best Rap Performance, and Best Music Video for the same track. In his acceptance speech, Lamar expressed gratitude to LA, stating, "We're going to dedicate this one to the city."

Beyoncé followed with three wins, Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “II Most Wanted” featuring Miley Cyrus, Best Country Album for "Cowboy Carter," and most notably, Album of the Year. Fans of Beyoncé and music journalists have long criticized the Grammys for repeatedly snubbing her in the Album of the Year category. Many argue that albums like Lemonade and Renaissance deserved the award more than those that ultimately won. The controversy was particularly evident in 2017 when Adele, who won for “25” over “Lemonade,” openly dedicated her award to Beyoncé during her acceptance speech, calling her the "artist of my life" and acknowledging that Lemonade should have taken the top prize. This brings her total Grammy count to 35, further solidifying her status as the most-awarded artist in Grammy history.

Charli XCX was honored with three wins, marking her first accolades from the Recording Academy. She was awarded Best Dance Pop Recording for "Von Dutch,” Best Dance/Electronic Album, and Best Recording Package for “BRAT.” 

Sabrina Carpenter earned two wins: Best Pop Vocal Album for "Short n' Sweet" and Best Pop Solo Performance for "Espresso." Despite releasing her very first album in 2015, these wins mark her first Grammy victories. She went on to thank her family, team, and fans, adding, "I want to thank all the fans that let my music be heard by the Recording Academy."

Notable Wins & Emotional Speeches

The Best Pop Duo/Group Performance accolade was awarded to Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars for their collaboration on "Die With a Smile.” The hit single is currently spending its fourth week at No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100, and it’s on track to become the longest-charting song on Global Spotify. During her acceptance speech, Lady Gaga took a moment to advocate for the transgender and broader LGBTQ+ communities. She stated, "Trans people are not invisible. Trans people deserve love. The queer community deserves to be lifted up. Music is love. Thank you." 

Chappell Roan was honored as Best New Artist. She had a breakthrough in 2024 with her hit song “Good Luck, Babe!” and her album “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.” In her acceptance speech, Chappell revealed the hardships she faced in the music industry: "I was signed as a minor and dropped with no work experience, no job during the pandemic, and no health insurance." She then went on to address industry leaders by stating a call to action: "I told myself that if I ever won a Grammy and got to stand up here before the most powerful people in music, I would demand that labels in the industry profiting millions... offer a livable wage and health insurance to artists, especially developing ones."

Doechii achieved a historic milestone by winning Best Rap Album for her mixtape “Alligator Bites Never Heal,” becoming only the third woman to receive this honor since the category's inception in 1989, following Lauryn Hill and Cardi B. She delivered an emotional speech encouraging young black women to follow their dreams: “You can do it. Anything is possible. Don't allow anybody to project any stereotypes on you, tell you that you can't be here, that you're too dark, that you're not smart enough, that you're too dramatic, you're too loud. You are exactly who you need to be… and I am a testimony.”

Standout Performances

Doechii delivered a high-energy medley of her hits "Catfish" and "Denial Is a River.” Her performance style makes her stand out from other rappers, incorporating intricate choreography, outfit changes, and thoughtful set designs.

The Weeknd surprised the audience by returning to the stage after a three-year boycott and delivering one of the most memorable performances of the night. Introduced by Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr., the Weeknd performed "Cry for Me" from his latest album, “Hurry Up Tomorrow.” He was joined on stage by Playboi Carti and a troupe of red-clad dancers, creating a visually striking presentation.

Benson Boone made a memorable Grammys debut with his performance of "Beautiful Things." The set began with a playful striptease, assisted by Heidi Klum and Nikki Glaser, revealing a sparkling baby blue jumpsuit. Benson performed energetically, doing backflips and singing his heart out while the audience jammed out to the most streamed song of 2024.

Chappell Roan brought theatrical flair to the stage with her performance of "Pink Pony Club." While she always delivers a stunning vocal display, she added choreography which elevates her performance style. Chappell connected with the audience of artists and music executives as they sang along and became teary-eyed.

Charli XCX delivered an electrifying medley, beginning with her hit single "Von Dutch." She exited a black SUV with an XCX car plate to an underground rave in a parking garage setting. Transitioning to the main stage, she performed "Guess," accompanied by friends and collaborators, including The Dare, Julia Fox, Alex Consani, and Quen Blackwell. The performance was full of high-energy dancing and a playful atmosphere, culminating in a shower of (unworn) underwear onto the stage—  with all garments getting donated to survivors of domestic violence as previously done for the music video of “Guess.”

The 2025 Grammys celebrated groundbreaking wins, showcased unforgettable performances, and provided us with powerful speeches that will leave a lasting impact. This year’s ceremony proved once again why music is a reflection of the times while being a force for change and unity.