At last night’s Grammys, ladies led the way. Taylor Swift not only snagged her fourth Album of the Year award, making Grammy history with Midnights, but also teased her next project, Tortured Poets Department.
It’s a win that etches her name as the first artist ever to clinch the top honour four times, a moment that, according to Swift, is only a fraction of the happiness she derives from her musical journey.
Miley Cyrus and SZA also dominated, with Cyrus bagging her very first Grammy, including Record of the Year for ‘Flowers’. SZA won three awards, marking a triumphant first as a solo artist. Phoebe Bridgers, however, was the silent powerhouse of the evening, taking home four Grammys, the highest of any artist that night.
The event also celebrated first-time wins for artists like Karol G, Lainey Wilson, and Coco Jones, showcasing a broad spectrum of female talent across genres. Boygenius and Paramore divided the spoils on the alternative and rock fronts, while Kylie Minogue grabbed a Grammy for Best Pop Dance Recording, her first in two decades.
Yet, the glitz and glamour were slightly overshadowed by pre-show controversies, including the detainment of Killer Mike following an alleged altercation. Trevor Noah, returning as host for the fourth consecutive year, navigated these waters with humour and grace, delivering a monologue that oscillated between fan-like enthusiasm and light-hearted jests.
Performances were, as always, a central part of the Grammys spectacle, with Dua Lipa, SZA, and Billy Joel offering memorable moments that spanned from high-energy numbers to heartfelt tributes. The ‘In Memoriam’ segment stood out, featuring tributes to legends like Tony Bennett and Tina Turner by industry icons Stevie Wonder, Annie Lennox, and Fantasia Barrino, respectively.
The night wasn’t just about the winners. Jay-Z’s acceptance of the Recording Academy’s Global Impact Award turned into a moment of reflection on the Grammys’ complex relationship with hip-hop and Black artists. His candid speech, underscored by the night’s earlier events and the continued overlooking of rap during the main show, called for the Grammys to strive for better or at least to get closer to getting it right.
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