The 2025 GRAMMY Awards were nothing short of spectacular, bringing together the biggest names in music for a night full of historic moments, jaw-dropping performances, and unforgettable wins. From Beyoncé making history once again to surprise performances and emotional tributes, here’s a recap of the most talked-about moments of the evening.
Beyoncé Makes History with 32nd GRAMMY Win
Beyoncé once again cemented her status as one of the greatest artists of all time, breaking her own record for the most GRAMMYs won by any artist in history. With her 32nd win, she surpassed the previous record held by the legendary conductor Georg Solti, taking home the coveted Album of the Year for her groundbreaking album Renaissance.
In a heartwarming moment, Beyoncé accepted her award with an emotional speech, thanking her family, fans, and the LGBTQ+ community, who she said inspired much of her creative vision on the album. “This is for the dreamers,” she said, holding her award high. “This is for every person who’s ever felt unseen. You are seen now.”
Kendrick Lamar Dominates with Multiple Wins
Kendrick Lamar had a triumphant night, taking home several awards, including Best Rap Album for his powerful album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. Lamar’s introspective, politically charged album resonated with critics and fans alike, and his win was a nod to his ever-growing influence in hip-hop and beyond.
He also took home Best Rap Song for his hit “The Heart Part 5,” in which he delves into complex societal issues with his signature storytelling. Kendrick’s acceptance speeches were as poetic as his music, with the rapper speaking on his personal journey and the struggles he continues to face as an artist.
Taylor Swift Wins Song of the Year for “Anti-Hero”
Taylor Swift had a night to remember, picking up the Song of the Year GRAMMY for her chart-topping single “Anti-Hero” from Midnights. This win marks Swift’s third victory in this prestigious category, adding to her already impressive GRAMMY resume. In her speech, Swift thanked her collaborators, including Jack Antonoff, and expressed how much the song means to her, calling it an anthem for anyone who’s ever doubted themselves.
Her performance of “Anti-Hero” earlier in the evening was also a highlight, with Swift delivering a visually stunning, introspective set that captivated audiences both in the arena and at home.
A Surprise Performance from Rihanna
Rihanna made a surprise return to the GRAMMY stage, performing her hit song “Lift Me Up” from the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. The emotional ballad brought the entire room to their feet as Rihanna, with her powerful voice and undeniable stage presence, delivered one of the night’s most moving performances.
Rihanna also took home her first GRAMMY in several years for Best Song Written for Visual Media for “Lift Me Up,” further solidifying her return to the spotlight after a period of focus on her family and business ventures.
The Weeknd and Dua Lipa’s Save Your Tears Duet
In a stunning moment that sent fans into a frenzy, The Weeknd and Dua Lipa took to the stage for a duet of Save Your Tears, a smash hit that the two previously collaborated on. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the performance became an instant viral moment. The Weeknd’s haunting falsetto paired perfectly with Dua Lipa’s confident, sultry vocals, and the set’s neon-lit visuals added a futuristic, dreamlike quality to the performance.
The collaboration was a huge talking point throughout the evening, as many speculated that this might lead to future collaborations between the two superstars.
Lil Nas X’s Bold Performance and Fashion Statement
Lil Nas X took the GRAMMYs by storm, both with his electrifying performance and a bold fashion statement that turned heads. The rapper-turned-fashion icon performed “Star Walkin’,” wearing an extravagant custom outfit by Balmain that featured dramatic wings and neon lights. His performance was a showstopper, blending choreography, striking visuals, and his larger-than-life personality.
He didn’t walk away with a win this year, but the performance solidified his place as one of the night’s most memorable artists, with many speculating he’ll take home multiple awards in the years to come.
Tributes to Iconic Legends
The GRAMMYs 2025 also featured touching tributes to some of music’s most iconic figures. The night paid tribute to legendary singer Tina Turner, who passed away in 2023, with a moving performance by Beyoncé, who honored Turner’s influence on her own career. Beyoncé’s rendition of “Proud Mary” was a powerful homage to the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, leaving the audience in awe.
Another emotional moment came when a tribute to the late David Bowie was presented, featuring a performance by several of his collaborators, including Annie Lennox and Billy Idol. The tribute celebrated Bowie’s impact on the music world, showcasing the breadth of his influence across genres.
Other Notable Wins and Moments
Best New Artist went to Olivia Rodrigo, whose debut album Guts was one of the most talked-about releases of the year. Rodrigo’s heartfelt speech expressed gratitude for the support she’s received from her fans and peers, and she was visibly moved by the honor.
Best Pop Vocal Album was awarded to Adele for 30, with the British singer thanking her fans for their unwavering support and sharing an emotional reflection on her journey of self-discovery through the album.
Best Rock Album went to Foo Fighters for But Here We Are, a touching tribute to their late drummer, Taylor Hawkins. The band’s win was accompanied by a video message from Hawkins’ family, reminding everyone of his legacy both in music and in life.
A moment of reflection and unity took place during a special performance of “We Are the World” featuring artists from around the globe, singing in tribute to the ongoing humanitarian efforts and the importance of global solidarity.
Closing the Night with a Bang: Bad Bunny’s Performance
To close out the night, Bad Bunny delivered a dynamic, high-energy performance of “El Apagón,” complete with stunning visuals and a crew of backup dancers. As the first Latin artist to headline a GRAMMY performance, Bad Bunny’s show was a celebration of the cultural impact of Latin music, and his set became an unforgettable moment of the night.
His performance further cemented his status as one of the most influential figures in the global music scene, and fans are already buzzing about what his next GRAMMY campaign might look like.
Looking Ahead to the Future of Music
The 2025 GRAMMYs were a powerful reminder of the ongoing evolution of music, with diverse genres, voices, and cultures being represented in ways never seen before. From Beyoncé making history to breakout performances by both newcomers and veterans, the night highlighted the strength, creativity, and resilience of the music industry.
As the evening wrapped up, one thing was clear: the future of music is in very good hands, and the 2025 GRAMMYs will be remembered as a celebration of talent, innovation, and the power of song.
