Grammys 2026 Delivers Spectacle with Mars, Carpenter and a Stripped-Back Bieber
The 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony proved to be a night of high-energy performances, historic victories and emotional tributes, captivating audiences worldwide. From Bruno Mars and Rosé's explosive opening to Justin Bieber's minimalist, near-naked performance, the event was packed with memorable moments that highlighted the diversity and dynamism of contemporary music.
Historic Win for Bad Bunny and a Super Bowl Tease
In a landmark moment for Latin music, Bad Bunny made history by winning Album of the Year for "Debí Tirar Más Fotos," marking the first time a Spanish-language album has claimed the Recording Academy's top prize. The Puerto Rican superstar was visibly moved, sitting in disbelief as the achievement sank in. The evening also featured a playful nod to the future, with a "Next stop: Super Bowl" hint adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Bruno Mars and Rosé Kick Off with High-Octane Energy
The ceremony launched with a raucous performance by Bruno Mars and Rosé of Blackpink, delivering their hit "APT." Inspired by a South Korean drinking game, the song set the tone with its infectious rhythm. Mars, in a dark suit with a checkerboard guitar strap, and Rosé, in a white tank top and black slacks, matched each other's intensity amid jumping, shredding and plumes of smoke, ensuring the night started on an electrifying note.
Sabrina Carpenter Soars with Airport-Themed Spectacle
Sabrina Carpenter transformed the Grammy stage into a bustling airport for her performance of "Manchild," complete with baggage carousels and dancers dressed as an astronaut, UPS worker, firefighter and ER doctor. Wearing white hot pants, a neckerchief and a captain's hat emblazoned with "SCA" for Sabrina Carpenter Airlines, she strutted confidently, even using traffic wands and an intercom. Her set culminated with her boarding a plane fuselage while holding a live dove, a moment that had nominee Olivia Dean grooving along in the audience.
Justin Bieber's Minimalist and Mesmerising Display
In stark contrast to the night's elaborate productions, Justin Bieber delivered a somber, stripped-back performance of "Yukon," appearing alone on stage in only shimmering gray boxer shorts and socks. With a guitar slung across his back and a full-size mirror as his sole prop, he programmed the song live and sang with closed eyes, echoing Ed Sheeran's loop-pedal style. Host Noah later joked, "One wrong move, and we would have had to put the show on OnlyFans." His wife, Hailey Bieber, swayed appreciatively, marking his return to the Grammys after a four-year absence as a new father.
New Artist Block Showcases Music's Bright Future
The Grammys once again highlighted the Best New Artist category, grouping nominees into a dynamic block that showcased a range of styles. The Marías opened with dream-pop, followed by Addison Rae's sultry "Fame Is a Gun" from a moving truck. Katseye brought gymnastics and energy with "Gnarly," while Leon Thomas and Alex Warren delivered guitar-driven and aisle-walking performances. British artists Lola Young and Olivia Dean impressed with piano ballads and soulful exuberance, before sombr closed the set in a spangly jumpsuit. Last year's winner, Chappell Roan, then anointed Olivia Dean as her successor.
A Rollicking and Unconventional In Memoriam
Departing from tradition, the in memoriam segment rocked the arena with a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, featuring Post Malone, Chad Smith, Duff McKagan, Slash and Andrew Watt performing Black Sabbath's "War Pigs" amid fire bursts and leather-clad intensity. Ms. Lauryn Hill led heartfelt tributes to D'Angelo and Roberta Flack, joined by artists like Raphael Saadiq, Jon Batiste and John Legend. Additional performances honoured Reba McEntire, Brandy Clark and Lukas Nelson, alongside pre-recorded nods to Brian Wilson and Bob Weir, creating a powerful farewell to musical legends.
Lady Gaga's Weird and Wonderful Contribution
Adding to the night's eclectic mix, Lady Gaga performed "Abracadabra" in a feather-festooned costume from inside a basket-like headpiece, using a gnarly cane and synths to deliver a rock-funk version of her song. Her quirky set later earned her the trophy for Best Pop Vocal Album, while Bruno Mars returned to the stage for his latest single, "I Just Might," ensuring the Grammys 2026 will be remembered for its blend of spectacle, emotion and innovation.
