Bad Bunny Makes History at the 2026 Grammy Awards
The 2026 Grammy Awards marked a historic night in music, with Bad Bunny taking home the coveted Album of the Year award for his critically acclaimed album, “Debí Tirar Más Fotos.” This monumental win is particularly significant as it is the first time a Spanish-language album has ever received this top honor, showcasing the growing influence of Latin music on the global stage.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Bad Bunny expressed gratitude and pride for his Puerto Rican roots. “Puerto Rico, believe me when I tell you that we are much bigger than 100 by 35,” he said, referencing a colloquial saying about the island’s size. His words resonated deeply, emphasizing the potential and talent that emerges from the small island. He dedicated the award to those who have had to leave their homeland to pursue their dreams, highlighting the struggles and aspirations of many immigrants.
A Night of Activism and Advocacy
The evening was not just about celebrating musical achievements; it also served as a platform for artists to voice their concerns about pressing social issues, particularly immigration. Billie Eilish, who won Song of the Year for her track “Wildflower,” used her moment in the spotlight to deliver a powerful message against U.S. immigration authorities. “No one is illegal on stolen land,” she declared, making it clear that artists are not afraid to speak out on issues that matter.
Bad Bunny echoed this sentiment during his acceptance speech for the Música Urbana Album award, stating, “Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say ICE out.” His bold declaration received thunderous applause, as he called for recognition of the humanity of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status. The theme of immigration continued throughout the night, with Olivia Dean, the Best New Artist winner, sharing her own immigrant background and the bravery of those who came before her.
Celebrating Musical Excellence
The night was filled with remarkable performances and notable wins across various categories. Kendrick Lamar and SZA took home Record of the Year for their collaboration “Luther,” a moment that was both celebratory and reflective. Cher, who presented the award, humorously misnamed Lamar, calling him “Luther Vandross,” but the moment was quickly turned into a tribute to the late singer.
Lamar also won the Rap Album award for “GNX,” further solidifying his status in the music industry. With this win, he broke Jay-Z’s record for the most Grammy wins by a rapper, bringing his total to 27. Lady Gaga won the Pop Vocal Album award for “Mayhem,” while newcomer Lola Young took home the award for Pop Solo Performance with her song “Messy.”
A Tribute to Legends
The Grammy Awards also featured a poignant in memoriam segment that celebrated the legacies of musical icons D’Angelo and Roberta Flack. Ms. Lauryn Hill made a triumphant return to the Grammy stage, performing a medley of Flack’s classics alongside other artists. The tribute was a powerful reminder of the impact these artists have had on the music landscape.
Tyler, the Creator delivered a theatrical performance that blurred the lines between music and art, showcasing his unique style and creativity. The show opened with an electrifying performance by Rosé and Bruno Mars, setting the tone for a night filled with unforgettable moments.
First-Time Winners and Surprises
The Premiere Ceremony saw a number of first-time winners, including the Dalai Lama, who won a Grammy for his audiobook narration, and “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters, marking the first Grammy win for a K-pop act. This year also saw the introduction of new categories, including the Contemporary Country Album, which sparked discussions about the evolving landscape of country music.
Overall, the 2026 Grammy Awards were a celebration of diversity, talent, and activism, reflecting the changing dynamics of the music industry. With Bad Bunny’s historic win and the powerful messages shared throughout the night, it was clear that music continues to be a force for change and unity.
