LOS ANGELES — In a moment that felt both triumphant and long overdue, Beyoncé took home the Grammy for Best Album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards on Sunday night. Her eighth studio album, Cowboy Carter, a genre-defying exploration of country music’s Black roots, earned the superstar her first win in the ceremony’s most prestigious category after four previous nominations.
As her name was announced, Beyoncé embraced her daughter Blue Ivy and husband Jay-Z before stepping onto the stage in a stunning gold paisley dress. “I just feel very full and very honored,” she said, holding the trophy. “It’s been many, many years.”
The win marks a historic milestone for Beyoncé, who is now the most-awarded artist in Grammy history with 35 trophies. It also makes her the first Black woman to win Best Album since Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill in 1999.
A Tribute to Country Music’s Black Pioneers
Beyoncé dedicated her award to Linda Martell, one of the first Black women to perform solo at the Grand Ole Opry and a featured artist on Cowboy Carter. “I hope we just keep pushing forward [and] opening doors,” she said. “God bless y’all. Thank you so much.”
Cowboy Carter, the second installment in Beyoncé’s trilogy of albums exploring American musical traditions, has been widely praised for its celebration of country music’s often-overlooked Black roots. Earlier in the evening, the album also won Best Country Album, a category Beyoncé admitted she “really was not expecting” to win.
The announcement came from Taylor Swift, who famously beat Beyoncé for Best Album in 2010. The symbolic passing of the torch was not lost on the audience, as Beyoncé thanked “all of the incredible country artists” who supported her work.
Kendrick Lamar Dominates with Not Like Us
While Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ‘Em lost Record of the Year to Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us, the Compton rapper had a dominant night, sweeping all five categories he was nominated for. Lamar dedicated his wins to Los Angeles, which has been recovering from devastating wildfires. “This is my neck of the woods that held me down since a young pup,” he said.
The wildfires were a central theme of the ceremony, which doubled as a fundraiser, raising over $7 million for relief efforts. Host Trevor Noah acknowledged the challenges faced by the city, thanking firefighters for their heroic efforts. “Despite all the devastation, the spirit of the city has emerged,” he said.
Star-Studded Performances and Tributes
The night was filled with memorable performances, including a heartfelt rendition of California Dreamin’ by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, dedicated to first responders. Billie Eilish opened the show with Birds of a Feather, set against a backdrop inspired by California’s natural beauty.
The ceremony also paid tribute to music legends, including a segment honoring Quincy Jones, introduced by Will Smith in his first televised awards appearance since the 2022 Oscars incident. Stevie Wonder performed We Are the World, while Janelle Monáe delivered a show-stopping version of Michael Jackson’s Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.
Political and Social Statements
Several artists used their platform to advocate for change. Chappell Roan, who won Best New Artist, called for fair pay and healthcare for developing artists. “Labels, we got you, but do you got us?” she asked.
Lady Gaga, accepting the award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance with Bruno Mars, made a powerful statement in support of the LGBTQ+ community. “Trans people are not invisible,” she said. “Trans people deserve love, the queer community deserves to be lifted up. Music is love. Thank you.”
Other Highlights
- Charli XCX won three awards, including Best Dance/Pop Album for Brat.
- The Beatles took home Best Rock Performance for Now and Then, a song completed using AI technology.
- Sabrina Carpenter won two awards, including Best Pop Solo Performance for Espresso.
The 2025 Grammys will be remembered not only for Beyoncé’s historic win but also for its celebration of resilience, unity, and the power of music to heal and inspire. As the night concluded, it was clear that the spirit of Los Angeles — and the artists who call it home — remains unbroken.
