The 2026 Grammys: Highs, lows, and Cher’s Bewildering Appearance
The 2026 Grammy Awards broadcast has concluded, marking another year of talent-packed performances and memorable moments. The show largely prioritized the music itself, delivering a mix of captivating performances, poignant speeches, and well-deserved wins – alongside a few head-scratching surprises, as is tradition with any awards show. Hear’s a breakdown of the best, the worst, and the most bewildering moments from music’s biggest night.
Sabrina Carpenter Takes Flight
Sabrina Carpenter’s performance of “Manchild” was an instant standout. The scene, complete with a surgeon, magician, priest, astronaut, explorer, and a Hawaiian-shirted individual, saw Carpenter arrive via baggage claim belt, pull a dove from a magician’s hat, and deliver an expletive-laden moment that was quickly bleeped. As one observer noted, the performance raised questions about airport security, but the sheer fun of it – especially Nikki Glaser’s enthusiastic lip-syncing – overshadowed any concerns. The finale, with Carpenter holding the dove, cemented its status as one of the night’s best.
Justin Bieber Strips Down for ‘Yukon’
In stark contrast to the energy of the Best New Artists nominees, Justin Bieber opted for a minimalist approach to his performance of “Yukon.” Eschewing choreography, backing musicians, and even most of his clothing, Bieber created an electric guitar loop live on stage, captivating the arena in silence. “What a captivating performance,” host Trevor noah remarked afterward, as Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith offered a standing ovation. The performance, described as “amazing” by many in attendance, also generated excitement for Bieber’s upcoming Coachella set in April.
Bad Bunny Says ‘ICE out’
Bad Bunny used his acceptance speech for Best Música Urbana Album to deliver a powerful political message. Declaring “ICE Out” before thanking God,he continued,”we’re not savage.We’re not animals. We’re not aliens. We’re humans and we are Americans.” this statement, delivered after a standing ovation, served as a potent rejoinder to a night that had been largely devoid of direct political commentary, even amidst jokes about former President Trump. Given his upcoming Super Bowl halftime show, Bad Bunny’s plea for protests filled with love was particularly timely and courageous.
lady Gaga’s Disco-Punk Banger
Lady Gaga delivered a performance that was both grand and intimate with her rendition of “Abracadabra.” Returning to the Grammys stage a year after debuting the song’s music video, Gaga performed with a small rock ensemble featuring producer Andrew Watt on guitar and herself on Roland synth. The arrangement blended the disco-pop of Nile rodgers with the beat-heavy sound of Nine inch Nails, while her wicker eyeball headpiece added an element of uncanny weirdness that tied the entire performance together.
Grammys Ignore Music’s Hottest Genre
A notable point of contention was the apparent oversight of country music’s current dominance. Despite a year of critically acclaimed and commercially successful country albums – including Zach Top’s Grammy-winning Ain’t in It for My Health, Margo Price’s Hard Headed Woman, and Tyler Childers’ snip
