Grammys 2025: Beyond the Big Wins, a Night of Electrifying Performances
Doechii, winner of Best Rap Album, giving an electrifying yet touching performance. Credit to Kevin Winter.
Los Angeles, California (February 5, 2025)- The 67th Annual Grammy Awards will be remembered for Beyoncé's historic Album of the Year win, Kendrick Lamar finally conquering the Big Four with "Not Like Us," and Chappell Roan's meteoric rise culminating in a Best New Artist trophy. But beyond the headlines, the 2025 Grammys delivered something truly special: a consistently captivating showcase of talent that kept the telecast humming and often defied expectations.
From Benson Boone's acrobatic stage presence to Herbie Hancock and Stevie Wonder's iconic collaboration, the show was a vibrant mix of established legends, rising stars, and exciting newcomers. While the ceremony approached the four-hour mark, the energy never flagged. Performances like Sabrina Carpenter's dazzling throwback routine and Charli XCX's chaotic club experience kept viewers engaged and entertained.
This year's Grammy performances weren't just about promoting singles; they were about showcasing artistry. The lineup was remarkably diverse, representing a wide spectrum of popular music and offering something for every taste. Casual viewers discovered exciting new voices, while dedicated fans saw their favorites shine on a global stage.
Here's a rundown of the night's most electrifying moments:
The High Notes:
Doechii: Fresh off her Best Rap Album win, Doechii delivered a tour-de-force performance, seamlessly blending high-concept visuals, intricate choreography, and breathtaking rhymes on "Catfish" and "Denial is a River." Her energy was unmatched, leaving the audience, including stars like Jay-Z and SZA, in awe. This was a star-making moment.
Charli XCX: Charli XCX turned Crypto.com Arena into her personal playground, delivering a chaotic yet brilliant performance of "Von Dutch" and "Guess." From backstage antics to on-stage raving and even a shower of (donated) underwear, Charli's set was as unhinged and euphoric as her music, creating a truly unforgettable Grammy experience.
Chappell Roan: Chappell Roan cemented her superstar status with a rocking rendition of "Pink Pony Club." Complete with a giant pink pony and a troupe of rodeo clowns, Roan's performance was audacious, energetic, and full of heart. It was a powerful statement from an artist who has steadily built her fanbase and is now ready to take over the world.
Sabrina Carpenter: Sabrina Carpenter showcased her versatility and charisma with a dazzling performance that blended old-school showbiz flair with modern pop sensibilities. From her tap-dancing "Espresso" routine to the dreamy "Please Please Please" and a pyrotechnic finale, Carpenter proved why she's a headliner in the making.
Billie Eilish: Billie Eilish delivered a subtly touching tribute to Los Angeles with her performance of "Birds of a Feather." The visuals, recreating the San Gabriel Mountains, combined with the emotional resonance of the song, created a truly moving moment.
Memorable Moments:
Shakira's Return: Shakira's first Grammy performance in over a decade was a triumph. She exuded confidence and joy as she seamlessly transitioned between "Ojos Asi" and "Bzrp Music Sessions Vol. 53," reminding the world of her incredible talent.
Quincy Jones Tribute: The tribute to Quincy Jones was a highlight of the night, featuring iconic collaborations between Herbie Hancock and Stevie Wonder, as well as a high-energy performance from Janelle Monáe channeling Michael Jackson.
Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars: Gaga and Mars opted for a classy tribute to Los Angeles, performing a beautiful rendition of The Mamas & the Papas' "California Dreamin'."
The Weeknd's Return: The Weeknd's surprise appearance signaled a welcome return to the Grammys stage, showcasing his new music and highlighting the positive changes the Recording Academy has made.
The Rest of the Pack:
While every performance had something to offer, some stood out more than others. Performances by Benson Boone, Raye, Shaboozey, Teddy Swims, and The Weeknd were all solid, while Khruangbin and Chris Martin's segments were unfortunately brief. The Los Angeles tribute, while well-intentioned, could have benefited from a more balanced spotlight on the participating artists.
The 2025 Grammys weren't just about the awards; they were a celebration of music in all its forms. The diverse and dynamic performances showcased the incredible talent that exists in the industry today, leaving viewers excited for what's to come.
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