The Highlights and Lowlights of the 2025 Grammy Awards

The 2025 Grammy Awards delivered a mix of stellar performances, heartfelt moments, and a few eyebrow-raising hiccups. Hosted by Trevor Noah for the fifth consecutive year, the ceremony took a reflective tone, honoring the resilience of the Los Angeles community in the wake of devastating wildfires. While the evening provided music lovers with unforgettable highlights, it was not without its off-key moments. Here’s a rundown of the best and worst from music’s biggest night.

The Best Moments

A Love Letter to Los Angeles

The Grammys opened with Dawes’ lively rendition of “I Love L.A.,” setting the tone for an evening that paid homage to the City of Angels. Highlights included nods to iconic Los Angeles music history and presenters like the Red Hot Chili Peppers who carried the city’s vibrant energy throughout the night. The most touching tribute came from Billie Eilish, who performed her nostalgic ballad, “Birds of a Feather,” against a backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains and childhood photos of her and her brother Finneas. Wearing a Dodgers cap, Eilish delivered a heartfelt homage to her roots, leaving everyone in awe.

Chappell Roan Steals the Spotlight

Best New Artist winner Chappell Roan not only took home a Grammy but also brought the house down with her electrifying performance of “Pink Pony Club.” With dazzling pink visuals, rodeo clowns, and explosive energy, she transformed the subdued evening into a full-blown party. Her advocacy for better wages and healthcare for artists during her acceptance speech further solidified her as a standout star of the night.

Doechii’s Historic Win and Inspiring Speech

Doechii made history as only the third woman to win Rap Album of the Year, joining Lauryn Hill and Cardi B in this elite club. Her acceptance speech was a powerful message of perseverance and representation for Black women, reminding them that they belong in every space, no matter what society says. She later wowed the audience with a stunning medley of “Catfish” and “Denial Is a River,” earning a standing ovation from Jay-Z, Billie Eilish, and SZA.

Moments of Unity and Advocacy

Several presenters and winners used their platforms to address important issues. Diana Ross shared a heartfelt message about spreading love and hope amid uncertain times, while Alicia Keys passionately defended diversity, equity, and inclusion, calling it a gift, not a threat. Lady Gaga also championed the LGBTQ+ community while celebrating her win with Bruno Mars for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.

The Worst Moments

Trevor Noah Struggles to Balance Tone

Trevor Noah had the unenviable task of keeping the show’s energy afloat while addressing the aftermath of the recent wildfires. While his attempts at humor and “temperature checks” of the audience were done in good faith, these repetitive remarks often underscored the subdued atmosphere rather than lifting it.

Charli XCX Gets Cut Off

Charli XCX, a fan favorite, delivered a high-energy performance of her iconic hits, only to have her finale awkwardly interrupted by an announcer listing nominees for Album of the Year. It was a baffling decision, especially since her fans were clearly still grooving along. This poorly timed interruption left many wondering why her moment wasn’t allowed to shine.

The Weeknd’s Lackluster Comeback

After boycotting the Grammys since 2021, The Weeknd’s return was highly anticipated—but ultimately underwhelming. His moody performance of “Cry for Me” felt out of sync with the evening’s attempts to balance somber reflection and celebration. Dressed in Jedi-like attire, The Weeknd’s performance felt like a self-promotional stunt aligned with his latest album release rather than a meaningful contribution to the night.

Snubbing Billie Eilish and Taylor Swift

Despite earning seven nominations each, both Billie and Taylor left empty-handed. While both artists are no strangers to Grammy wins, their lack of recognition this year sparked outrage among fans. Social media erupted with disappointment, making their losses one of the most debated aspects of the night.

Awkward Moments on Stage

While most performances were polished and captivating, some moments left viewers cringing. Benson Boone’s spirited performance ended with an ill-timed wardrobe adjustment and an awkward bow. While his baby-blue ensemble stunned the audience, his final act detracted from an otherwise solid set.

Why the 2025 Grammys Mattered

Beyond the performances and awards, the 2025 Grammys stood as a testament to the music industry’s resilience and its ability to unite and inspire during challenging times. The evening not only celebrated artistry but also raised millions in donations to support wildfire relief efforts.

Still, as with any live event, the Grammys reminded us that perfection isn’t the goal—it’s about highlighting the impact of music and the stories behind it. Whether it was Billie Eilish’s heartfelt tribute to L.A., Chappell Roan’s electrifying performance, or Doechii’s inspiring speech, the night featured moments worth remembering.

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