The 68th Annual Grammy Awards, held this past weekend in Los Angeles and hosted by Trevor Noah, delivered a night filled with historic victories, emotional speeches, and unforgettable performances. The ceremony celebrated not only musical excellence but also the growing influence of artists using their voices to address cultural and social issues.
One of the biggest moments of the night came when Bad Bunny won Album of the Year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos, making history as the first Spanish-language album to receive the Grammy’s top honor. Hingham High School junior, Sally Egan, said, “I love Spanish, and I am so happy that finally the academy is recognizing this great album. I can’t wait to see Bad Bunny perform at the Super Bowl!” When accepting his award, he dedicated the win to immigrants and dreamers around the world, urging unity and compassion. His words were met with a standing ovation and became one of the most talked-about moments of the night.
Other major winners included Billie Eilish, who earned Song of the Year for “Wildflower,” and Kendrick Lamar and SZA, who won Record of the Year for their collaboration “Luther.” Olivia Dean took home Best New Artist, while Lady Gaga won Best Pop Vocal Album for Mayhem. Country artist Jelly Roll also had a standout night, winning multiple awards, including Best Contemporary Country Album for Beautifully Broken.
The ceremony was marked by powerful speeches focused on inclusion, resilience, and hope. Several artists used their time on stage to speak about social justice, immigration, and the importance of community, showing how music can be a platform for change. Hingham High School junior, Coco Berube, explains that, “The speeches during the award ceremonies were inspiring. Celebrities have a responsibility to speak up about problems, and it was really brave of them to do so.”
The performances were just as memorable. Sabrina Carpenter opened the show with a high-energy set that set the tone for the night. Justin Bieber delivered a stripped-down, emotional performance that contrasted with the evening’s larger productions. Tyler, the Creator wowed audiences with bold visuals and creative staging, while tribute performances honored music legends, reminding viewers of the industry’s rich history.
Overall, the 2026 Grammy Awards proved that the show is more than just a celebration of music. With groundbreaking wins, meaningful messages, and electrifying performances, this year’s ceremony reflected how artists continue to shape culture and inspire audiences around the world.
