A Night of Music and Tribute: What to Expect at the 2025 Grammy Awards
The 67th Annual Grammy Awards is set to take centre stage, celebrating the best in music while also carrying a deeper message of resilience and unity. Despite calls to postpone or cancel the event due to the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles, the Recording Academy has pushed forward, ensuring that Music’s Biggest Night will not only honour this year’s finest artists but also support relief efforts for those affected.
Star-Studded Performances
Live from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles and hosted for the fifth consecutive year by Trevor Noah, the Grammys will be broadcast live on Sunday, February 2, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on CBS, with streaming available on Paramount+. This year’s show shines a spotlight on emerging talent, featuring performances from seven of the eight nominees for Best New Artist: Benson Boone, Chappell Roan, Doechii, Raye, Sabrina Carpenter, Shaboozey, and Teddy Swims. The eighth nominee, Khruangbin, has yet to be announced as a performer.
Beyond the rising stars, established icons will also take the stage. Billie Eilish, who won Best New Artist five years ago, is among the performers, along with Charli XCX and Shakira. One of the most anticipated moments will be a collaborative performance from Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, dedicated to the city of Los Angeles and those affected by the wildfires.
Notable Absences and Surprise Appearances
While some of the biggest names in music are set to perform, others remain unconfirmed. Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and Taylor Swift have not been announced as performers despite being among the year’s top nominees. Beyoncé leads with 11 nominations, though her last Grammy performance was in 2017. Swift, who has six nods, last performed at the awards in 2021, while Lamar, who has seven, is unlikely to take the stage due to his upcoming Super Bowl halftime show appearance on February 9.
However, fans can still expect to see Beyoncé and Swift at the ceremony, as a CBS promo has confirmed their attendance. Their presence alone adds to the night’s excitement, leaving room for potential surprises.
A Night of Purpose and Remembrance
This year’s Grammys carries a special purpose beyond recognizing musical achievements. The event will raise funds for L.A. wildfire relief efforts while paying tribute to first responders. Additionally, a series of special performances will highlight the night, including a tribute to Grammy legend Quincy Jones. The legendary producer and composer, who passed away in November at age 91, won 28 Grammys across six decades and mentored generations of artists. A star-studded lineup featuring Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, John Legend, and Jacob Collier will honour his enduring legacy.
The annual In Memoriam segment will also provide a poignant moment to reflect on the industry’s losses over the past year.
Presenters and Special Guests
Alongside musical performances, an impressive roster of presenters will take the stage. Victoria Monét, last year’s Best New Artist winner, and Taylor Swift, who won Album of the Year in 2024, are among those presenting awards. Additional presenters include Cardi B, Gloria Estefan, Olivia Rodrigo, Queen Latifah, SZA, and Will Smith. Smith will have a particularly meaningful role, introducing the tribute to Quincy Jones. Their connection dates back to Jones’ role as executive producer of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the show that launched Smith’s acting career.
The Man Behind the Mic: Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah returns as host, making history as the first comedian to lead the Grammys five times. He’s also nominated for Best Comedy Album for Where Was I. Should he win, he’ll become only the second host to take home a Grammy on the same night they hosted, following in the footsteps of Kenny Rogers in 1980.
Behind the Scenes and Pre-Show Details
The production of this year’s ceremony is once again in the hands of Fulwell 73 Productions, with Ben Winston, Raj Kapoor, and Jesse Collins serving as executive producers. Before the main broadcast, the Grammy Premiere Ceremony – where the majority of awards are handed out – will stream live at 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT on the Recording Academy’s YouTube channel and official website. Held at the Peacock Theater in L.A. Live, the pre-show will be hosted by Grammy nominee Justin Tranter for the second year in a row.
A Night to Remember
The 2025 Grammy Awards promises an unforgettable evening filled with music, emotion, and purpose. From electrifying performances to heartfelt tributes, this year’s show is set to leave a lasting impact – not just on the music industry, but on the city of Los Angeles and the fans watching worldwide.
Check out the full list of performers and presenters on the main Grammy telecast below.
Performers
- Benson Boone
- Billie Eilish
- Chappell Roan
- Charli XCX
- Doechii
- Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars
- RAYE
- Sabrina Carpenter
- Shaboozey
- Shakira
- Teddy Swims
Performers, Tribute Segments
- Brad Paisley
- Brittany Howard
- Chris Martin
- Cynthia Erivo
- Herbie Hancock
- Jacob Collier
- Janelle Monáe
- John Legend
- Lainey Wilson
- Sheryl Crow
- St. Vincent
- Stevie Wonder
Presenters
- Anthony Kiedis & Chad Smith
- Cardi B
- Gloria Estefan
- Olivia Rodrigo
- Queen Latifah
- SZA
- Taylor Swift
- Victoria Monét
- Will Smith
