The 68th Annual Grammy Awards, held on February 1, 2026, at Los Angeles' Crypto.com Arena, marked a historic evening in the music industry. Bad Bunny's "Debí Tirar Más Fotos" became the first Spanish-language album to win Album of the Year, highlighting the growing influence of Latin music. (apnews.com) Kendrick Lamar and SZA's collaboration "Luther" earned Record of the Year, with Lamar also securing Best Rap Album for "GNX," solidifying his status as the most-awarded hip-hop artist in Grammy history. (thewrap.com)
The ceremony was notable for its political undertones, as several artists used the platform to address immigration policies. Bad Bunny, during his acceptance speech, condemned U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stating, "Before I say thanks to God, I'm going to say: ICE OUT." Billie Eilish, who won Song of the Year for "Wildflower," echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that "no one is illegal on stolen land." Many attendees, including Justin Bieber and Joni Mitchell, wore "ICE OUT" pins in solidarity with immigrant communities. (time.com)
Olivia Dean was honored as Best New Artist, celebrating her soulful contributions to pop music. In her acceptance speech, she paid tribute to her family's immigrant roots, stating, "I'm a product of bravery, and I think those people deserve to be celebrated." (apnews.com) The event also recognized music legends with Lifetime Achievement Awards, including Chaka Khan, Cher, Whitney Houston, and Fela Kuti, acknowledging their enduring impact on the industry. (apnews.com)
The 2026 Grammys not only celebrated musical excellence but also served as a platform for artists to advocate for social justice, reflecting the evolving role of music in addressing contemporary issues.