Feb. 1 marked the 68th Grammy Awards. The Grammys are a major annual event where artists are rewarded for their achievements in the music industry. The Recording Academy presented 95 awards this year, covering a wide variety of aspects in music, with many commemorating the best albums and songs in specific genres.
Artists arrived decked out in elaborate outfits, serving as spectacles for eagle-eyed viewers. Sabrina Carpenter’s ruffly white Valentino dress was undeniably a win, while Chappel Roan’s unique red negligee faced criticism. The Biebers wore all-black, along with other male artists who chose basic black tuxes. These classic outfits were countered by unique fits, such as Heidi Klum’s controversial naked dress and Lady Gaga’s eccentric feathered gown.
The event began with the Grammy Premier Ceremony, an essential part of the Grammys, during which smaller artists perform and the vast majority of awards are presented.
Following the Premier Ceremony, the show officially opened with a performance of the song APT. This 2024 hit single by top artist, Bruno Mars and K-Pop star Rosé embodied the energy and originality present at the Grammys.
Ten more performances occurred throughout the night, including a medley from the Best New Artists. The songs, particularly Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra,” Sombr’s “12 to 12,” Justin Bieber’s “Yukon,” and Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild,” were excellently chosen and accurately represented the year in music.
Finally, the most important part of the night: the awards. While 80 of the 95 awards were presented at the premier, the most prestigious and highly regarded ones were presented during the Grammys ceremony. This included the “big four” awards, namely Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist.
Kendrick Lamar and Sza won Record of the Year for their song “Luther.” Released in 2024, “Luther” didn’t immediately resonate as a banger, demonstrating a subdued, simplistic sound. After multiple listens, however, the track won me over. It masterfully showcases the perfection to which Kendrick’s and Sza’s voices complement each other; furthermore, “Luther” incorporates instrumental detail and thoughtful repetition which cannot be contested.
Bad Bunny won the Album of the Year for the album “Debí Tirar Más Fotos.” A Latin American artist with an overwhelming fanbase, Bad Bunny has made history this year. “Debí Tirar Más Fotos” is the first ever Spanish language album to win Album of the Year.
Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell won Song of the Year for the song “Wildflower.” While “Wildflower” is a great song, offering vibrant lyrics and a heart-rending melody, I was surprised that it won this award. The song came out in the first half of 2024, and along with the rest of Billie’s album, “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” “Wildflower” seemed signature to that year.
Olivia Dean won Best New Artist. 2025 saw an impressive number of new artists rise to fame. Olivia Dean stands out though through her album, “The Art of Loving You,” which includes viral songs, “Man I Need” and “So Easy (To Fall In Love).”
Overall, the 2026 Grammys didn’t disappoint. The artist’s outfits provided usual variety, performances proved amazing, and while awards may not have gone to my first choice artists, there was still reason to celebrate those who were rewarded.
