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LOS ANGELES — The 2025 Grammy Awards are celebrating exceptional talent and the hottest hits in music, with Beyoncé leading the pack as the most nominated artist for her celebrated album, “Cowboy Carter.” The awards show will be available for streaming on CBS and Paramount+.

Performers at the event include Shakira, Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, Doechii, Sabrina Carpenter, and Charli XCX, while the emotionally charged tribute to the iconic producer Quincy Jones will be presented by Will Smith, Stevie Wonder, and Janelle Monáe. Comedian Trevor Noah is set to host the event for the fifth consecutive year.

**Highlights from the event:**

**RECORD OF THE YEAR:** “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar. During the event, Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars expressed mutual admiration while accepting the award for Best Group/Duo Performance for their collaboration, “Die With a Smile.” Mars praised Gaga’s vast musical legacy, stating, “I’m so honored to have a small part in your giant musical legacy.” Gaga reciprocated with kind words, calling Mars an exceptional musician.

In a somber moment, Liam Payne opened the traditional in memoriam segment with tributes that honored his life, followed by Chris Martin performing “All My Love” as the names and faces of lost artists appeared on screen.

While accepting her award, Lady Gaga highlighted the importance of love and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community, asserting, “Trans people deserve love. The queer community deserves to be lifted up. Music is love.”

Before transitioning into the memorials, Trevor Noah took a moment to acknowledge the recent tragic plane disasters in Washington D.C. and Philadelphia.

**BEST POP DUO/GROUP PERFORMANCE** was awarded to “Die With a Smile” by Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga.

In tribute to Quincy Jones, notable performances included:
– “Fly Me To The Moon” by Cynthia Erivo featuring Herbie Hancock
– “Let the Good Times Roll” with Lainey Wilson and Jacob Collier
– Stevie Wonder performed “Bluesette” and “We Are The World” alongside school choirs from areas affected by Southern California wildfires
– Janelle Monáe gave a powerful rendition of “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough.”

During a heartfelt moment in the tribute, kids from Palisades Charter High and Pasadena Waldorf School joined Stevie Wonder in performing “We Are the World,” with the audience joining in during the performance, which reflected the original version’s spirit.

Will Smith took the stage to celebrate Quincy Jones, highlighting the profound impact Jones had on his career and life, saying, “You probably wouldn’t even know who Will Smith was without Quincy Jones.” Jones had a major role in helping Smith secure his iconic role in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.”

Shakira’s sons joined her on stage wearing matching silver tuxedos, marking her first U.S. Grammy appearance since 2007. Shakira expressed her pride in her sons and their support for her.

Despite being banned from the Oscars, Will Smith continues to be embraced by the Grammys, where he recognized his mentor Quincy Jones.

**André 3000** surprised fans with his debut solo album, “New Blue Sun,” a departure from his previous work with Outkast, which features an instrumental approach focusing on ambient alt-jazz. The album earned him three Grammy nominations this year, celebrating a long-awaited return to the music scene.

In a nostalgic moment, **Jennifer Lopez** presented the Best Latin Pop Album award to Shakira, who dedicated her award to immigrants in the U.S. during her acceptance speech.

During the broadcast, Lady Gaga debuted her new single “Abracadabra,” featuring a vibrant music video filled with eclectic visuals. Meanwhile, Kanye West and his wife Bianca Censori made less of a scene than anticipated, reportedly leaving the event to avoid any controversies while West’s nomination for “Carnival” was acknowledged.

**The Weeknd** surprised the audience with a performance, marking a stark contrast from his prior criticisms of the Grammy process, and showcasing his recent album, “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” followed by announcements of a North American stadium tour.

Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga also took the stage to honor California through a heartfelt rendition of “California Dreamin’,” contributing to a segment aimed at raising funds for wildfire relief efforts.

Chappell Roan made a powerful statement in her acceptance speech for Best New Artist, advocating for health care and fair wages for artists, calling for labels to support rising talents.

The event also focused on wildfire recovery efforts around Los Angeles, showcasing imagery of devastation and resilience, calling on the community to unite.

**BEST NEW ARTIST** was awarded to Chappell Roan, who entertained the crowd with a spirited performance featuring a rodeo theme, receiving a standing ovation.

Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” took an unexpected win, earning her the Best Country Album award, a surprise for many who speculated differently. Taylor Swift reminisced about her own journey in the country music genre while presenting the category.

The feelings of nostalgia continued with **The Black Crowes**, celebrating their return after decades, alongside **Sierra Ferrell**, who took home multiple awards for her album “Trail of Flowers,” donning a whimsical bridal gown style.

In a touching moment, Jimmy Carter was posthumously honored with a Grammy for his audiobook narration, recognized for his lifelong dedication to peace and compassion.

The night is indeed packed with surprises and heartfelt performances as the 2025 Grammy Awards unfold, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of the music industry while emphasizing themes of love, resilience, and community upliftment.
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