The 67th Annual Grammy 2025 show arrived like a breath of fresh air in a world saturated with polarizing messages. Beyond the red carpet and the trophies, what truly defined the night were the performances, the authenticity, and those unexpected moments that made us all feel the beat. In an era where every beat counts, music became the universal language that broke down barriers and connected people from all walks of life.
Moments That Defy Convention
From the very beginning, the night felt different. Who could forget Chappell Roan riding a giant pony? That meticulously crafted staging not only stunned the audience but redefined what’s possible on a Grammy stage. Her performance was a blend of theater, performance art, and pure pop energy, and her sincere, passionate speech after winning the Artist of the Year award is now etched in our collective memory. Simply iconic.
Doechii also shone brightly. With an energetic performance that fused urban rhythms with a striking visual aesthetic, she managed to not only entertain but also inspire thousands of young fans. Her speech after winning Best Rap Album—laden with messages of inclusion and empowerment—resonated across social media and reaffirmed that innovation comes in all shapes and sounds.
And what about Billie Eilish? She kicked off the night with an intimate yet powerful rendition of "Birds of a Feather" alongside her brother. It’s amazing how her voice sounds live just as it does in the studio. Even though she didn’t take home an award this year, her impact was undeniable: the song she performed is the most streamed track of 2024, proving that connecting with the audience goes far beyond trophies.
Awards and Surprises: Diversity in Every Category
The ceremony was full of unexpected moments. While some awards seemed almost guaranteed—like Best Pop Album with Sabrina Carpenter or Best New Artist for Chappell Roan—there were decisions that left many speechless. Beyoncé, for example, broke the mold by taking home Best Country Album, a category that opened up new conversations about genre fusion, and she also secured the coveted Best Album of the Year for the first time in her career. Another surprising twist was Kendrick Lamar winning both Record of the Year and Song of the Year, reaffirming the relevance of his lyrics and the power of his music in a generation that demands social commitment and honesty. According to some experts, his win was also helped by the divided pop vote.
Scenery, Technology, and Subtle Touches That Captivate
Although technology often steals the spotlight at these events, in 2025 the emphasis was on the organic. There wasn’t a barrage of effects that left you breathless, but there were beautifully executed stage designs—like Doechii’s—that made the audience feel like part of the show. This commitment to authenticity and restraint particularly resonated with a young audience that values genuine experiences over flashy artifices.
Tributes and Collaborations That Leave a Mark
In a show celebrating the lives and careers of countless artists, tributes held a special place. During the homage to Quincy Jones, many expected a more direct nod to “The King of Pop,” yet it was Janele Monae, with her unparalleled energy, who managed to capture the innovative and rebellious spirit of Michael Jackson, evoking “Don’t Stop 'Till You Get Enough” in an unforgettable way. Meanwhile, Chris Martin joined the tributes to the artists we lost this year, adding his sensitive touch and reminding us of the fragility of life, as "All My Love" provided the perfect soundtrack for a deeply moving moment.
The Power of the New Generation
2024 marked a turning point in the musical landscape, and the Grammy 2025 show couldn’t ignore the explosion of emerging talent. The medley featuring several New Artist nominees was a testament to the fact that the new generation comes not only with experience and a fresh perspective but also in great physical shape! The acrobatic moves of Benson Boone and the seemingly impossible positions pulled off by Doechii left no doubt. Among them, Raye stood out with her unique style and her ability to challenge stereotypes, sending a clear message: creativity knows no age or limits.
What I Liked Least
Not everything that night was perfect—some moments left a bittersweet taste. Charli XCX’s performance was disappointing; while her album Brat is solid, her live rendition lacked the spark that makes her studio work so compelling. Similarly, Shakira won Best Latin Album with a record that, in my opinion, feels more like a compilation of her past hits than a fresh, vibrant work. Her performance didn’t wow me either: the ultra-acoustic version of "Ojos Así" left little impression, and the gospel-inflected start of her set with Bizarrap came off almost as a meme. Despite her undeniable career and talent, Shakira’s recent overexposure—coupled with messages that don’t always seem authentically hers—has grown tiresome.
I also couldn’t overlook Will Smith, whose image still carries a heavy burden despite speeches that sound like rehearsed sincerity, and The Weeknd’s return, which shifted from an apparent boycott of the awards to a conveniently timed appearance during the launch week of his album—a move that many found unconvincing.
Moreover, I missed the live rendition of "Die With a Smile," an interpretation that could have provided an emotional breather. Although I understand that, in a night centered around the recent tragedy in Los Angeles, both Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars chose to gift us an emotional version of "California Dreamin'"—a moment so full of nostalgia and hope that, for a few moments, we didn’t want it to end.
Beyond the Trophies: The True Value of the Night
While the awards—decided by the votes of 13,000 industry professionals—always spark debate, what truly matters is what lingers in the audience’s heart. For me, the real value of the night was measured in those instances when performances became declarations of intent. Who wins the trophy is no longer the primary concern; it’s the way those moments make us feel, the contagious emotion, and how music unites us despite our differences. The social media explosion after the show demonstrated that when the criticism is positive, its impact multiplies: streams soared, hashtags overflowed with praise and memes, and it became clear that live experiences are treasures no trophy can quantify.
A Stage for Change
In a context where many political leaders in the United States and around the world spread divisive messages, seeing artists use this global stage to deliver powerful responses was particularly inspiring. From messages of solidarity to calls for social justice, the show transformed into a space where music isn’t just celebrated—it becomes a catalyst for change and unity within communities.
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