Music’s biggest night of the year did not disappoint, as the 2025 Grammy Awards delivered outstanding performances, surprise wins and history-making moments that will be talked about for years to come.
This year, the Grammys used their platform to raise nearly $10 million for the LA wildfire relief programs. Additionally, they used their sponsored commercial time to collaborate with small businesses that were affected by the tragedy.
The event featured performances by talented artists, both new and veterans, such as Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, Chappell Roan, Doechii, Sabrina Carpenter, Benson Boone, RAYE, Teddy Swims, Charli XCX, Shakira, Shaboozey and Cynthia Erivo.
“My favorite performance was Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ performance of ‘California Dreaming’,” said Deya Todorova, a senior at Mount Pisgah. “The visuals and their voices were so good, and singing as an ode to the California wildfires was very cool.”
A major surprise win came from Beyonce’s album “Cowboy Carter”, as she won Country Album of the Year and finally received her long-awaited first Album of the Year Award. However, this decision was met with a bit of controversy as some believed her win for AOTY snubbed other artists.
“I think Billie Eilish was snubbed 100%. Billie’s album was unbelievable, and I think it was her biggest album yet as it seemed to be streaming everywhere,” added Todorova.
However, many other people were somewhat indifferent to Beyonce’s win.
“I don’t know if you can say whether or not something qualifies as that [a country album] if you don’t know what the exact qualifications for it are,” said Carly Morris.
Other history-making moments included breakout rapper Doechii becoming the third female ever to win Best Rap Album with her album “Alligator Bites Never Heal” and Kendrick Lamar with his hit song “Not Like Us” winning five Grammy awards including Song and Record of the Year, making it the most decorated song in Grammy history.
Another shock to some fans came when Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish, both highly awarded artists in years past, walked away with zero wins in their nominated categories.
“It’s different because [Taylor Swift is] used to winning so many Grammys…but it’s nice to see other people also winning,” added Morris.
This year’s breakout artists Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter walked away with their first Grammy awards as well. Carpenter won two awards for Pop Vocal Album and Pop Vocal Performance, while Roan won for Best New Artist. In her acceptance speech, Roan gave a powerful message aimed at critiquing record labels and calling them to treat their artists better.
The 2025 Grammy Awards not only celebrated musical excellence but also showcased the industry’s ability to unite for a good cause, leaving fans with inspiring performances, unpredictable wins and many memorable moments.
