The 68th Grammy Awards unfolded as a dynamic spectacle, weaving together exhilarating musical showcases, unexpected wins, and a scattering of minor hitches. The evening kicked off with a captivating collaborative performance by Bruno Mars and Rosé, followed by a vibrant medley featuring this year's Best New Artist nominees. Adding to the ceremony's flow, six-time host Trevor Noah delivered sharp commentary, maintaining the celebratory atmosphere. Notably, several winners used their platform to address social issues, amplifying diverse voices.
Among the evening's triumphs, the Best New Artist medley truly shone, demonstrating the incredible talent of the emerging artists. The collective delivered their chart-topping hits with the polish of seasoned professionals. The segment seamlessly transitioned from Addison Rae's backstage presence to powerful on-stage performances by artists like Katseye, Leon Thomas, Alex Warren, Lola Young, Olivia Dean (who later claimed the award), and Sombr, with the Marias also contributing before Trevor Noah introduced the segment. Although Alex Warren encountered a brief technical issue with his earpiece during "Ordinary," he quickly recovered, delivering a strong performance as he ascended above the audience on a rising platform. Meanwhile, Trevor Noah once again proved his exceptional hosting prowess, navigating the show with a blend of humor, cultural insight, and genuine appreciation for the artists, making his sixth appearance both impactful and entertaining. He skillfully balanced lighthearted jokes with a focus on the narratives and communities behind the music, a approach that resonated deeply with viewers.
However, the night was not without its less-than-perfect moments. A noticeable misstep occurred when Chappell Roan faced difficulties reading the teleprompter while presenting the Best New Artist award. Her struggle mirrored a similar incident at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, momentarily disrupting the ceremony's rhythm. Despite this, the awards continued to offer powerful artistic expressions. Justin Bieber's return to the Grammy stage was a testament to his raw talent, delivering a moving, minimalist performance of "Yukon" clad only in boxers and socks. This stripped-down approach underscored his artistic depth and enduring appeal. The evening reached an emotional peak with Lauryn Hill's long-awaited return to the Grammys after 27 years. Her poignant In Memoriam tribute honored music legends like Roberta Flack and D'Angelo, delivering an unforgettable medley alongside artists such as Lucky Daye, Jon Batiste, Chaka Khan, John Legend, Leon Thomas, Raphael Saadiq, and Wyclef Jean, creating an indisputably powerful and moving highlight of the event.
Ultimately, the 2026 Grammy Awards highlighted the enduring power of music to inspire, connect, and provoke thought. The blend of seasoned stars and fresh talent, celebrated together on a global stage, reminds us of the universal language of art and its capacity to bring people together, transcending boundaries and fostering a shared sense of humanity. Every performance, every award, and even every small imperfection contributed to a night that celebrated creativity and demonstrated how artistic expression continues to uplift and enrich our lives.