2026 Grammys: Music, Politics, and a Night to Remember

The 68th Grammy Awards took place on February 1st in Los Angeles, hosted by Trevor Noah, and it was a night that combined music, politics, and memorable moments. Artists from across genres, including Justin Bieber, Jelly Roll, Kendrick Lamar and more, came together to celebrate their work. Several artists, including Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, Kehlani and SZA, used their speeches to speak out on issues such as immigration, social justice, and human rights, making the night about both music and the messages behind it.

Kendrick Lamar continued to dominate, winning Record of the Year with SZA for “Luther” and Best Rap Album for GNX. With these wins, Kendrick now holds the record for the most Grammys won by a rapper. While accepting the award for “Luther,” SZA spoke about the current political climate, saying people should not give in to fear or despair. She encouraged trust in one another and said that faith and connection matter more than politics. Political themes continued throughout the ceremony, most notably during Bad Bunny’s acceptance speeches. Bad Bunny had one of the most talked-about nights, winning Album of the Year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos, along with Best Música Urbana Album and *Best Global Music Performance. In his acceptance speech, he spoke directly about ICE, saying “ICE out,” and emphasized that immigrants are human beings who deserve dignity and respect.

Billie Eilish won Song of the Year for “Wildflower,” accepting the award alongside her brother and longtime collaborator Finneas. In her speech, Eilish addressed immigration and human rights, stating, “No one is illegal on stolen land,” while encouraging people to remain engaged and aware. Both she and Finneas wore “ICE out” pins during the ceremony. Kehlani also had a major night, winning Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song for Folded. The wins came nearly a decade after her first Grammy nomination. Known for being outspoken on social and political issues, Kehlani has long used her platform as an activist, and her remarks throughout the night reflected that commitment while also acknowledging her journey as an artist.

Other winners included Leon Thomas, who won Best R&B Album for Mutt, and Durand Bernarr, who received Best Progressive R&B Album, showing the range of voices in today’s R&B. Sinners also won Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media and Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media, reflecting the continued impact of music in film and television. The ceremony featured several performances, including a return to the Grammy stage by Justin Bieber, who delivered a stripped-down performance that focused on vocals and emotion. The night wrapped up with unforgettable performances, historic wins with meaningful messages. The red carpet showed another side of the ceremony, with artists arriving in tailored suits and extravagant looks. Several wore “ICE out” pins to match the speeches they had given onstage, showing how fashion, like the awards themselves, became another way for artists to express themselves.

See below for all the celebrity red carpet looks.