This year’s 67th annual Grammys left viewers with some surprises. The ceremony acted as a fundraiser for the current Californian wildfires, as host, Trevor Noah, continued to raise awareness for the cause.
One of the most anticipated awards was this year’s Album of the Year, which ended up going to Beyoncé for her Cowboy Carter album. In her speech, Beyoncé shared words of disbelief as she accepted the award.
“I really was not expecting this,” is how she started her speech. Many people were surprised with this win, as well as her award for Country Album of the Year for the same album.
Cowboy Carter was Beyoncé’s first country album which, according to the New York Times, was said to be “a reclamation of the black roots of country, and of the role women have played in history.”
Another big surprise this night was Kendrick Lamar, who came out with two big wins for his Drake diss track “Not Like Us.” He also received Song of the Year, as well as Record of the Year for this track.
During his speech, Lamar sought the opportunity to shout-out Los Angeles and its current tragedies as he said, “And most importantly, the people and the families out in the Palisades and Altadena. This is a true testament that we can continue to restore this city. And we’re gonna keep rockin’.”
Big moments from this year’s Grammys also included Chappell Roan’s performance of her hit, “Pink Pony Club”, and her Best New Artist speech, where she brought attention to healthcare in the music industry. Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars won for their duet, “Die With a Smile”, and the Best R&B Album Award went to new artist, Doechii, for her album Alligator Bites Never Heal.
Upsets included Billie Eillish, Taylor Swift, and Ariana Grande, who were all nominated for multiple awards, but left empty-handed.
This award ceremony also served as a center for representation and discussion. Many artists brought light to social issues, while also honoring the art of music.
Though there were many surprises and let-downs, ultimately, the 2025 Grammys saw success and raised awareness for many societal concerns.
