The 60th annual Grammy Awards opened with an electrifying, politically-charged performance by Kendrick Lamar, who was joined by U2’s Bono and The Edge—not to mention comedic interludes by Dave Chapelle—sending out a compelling message that tackled racism. This was just the start of many more impactful moments that left their mark. The Time’s Up and #MeToo movements were centre stage, with the night’s biggest stars wearing or carrying a white rose to show their solidarity. Here, our favourite moments that stole the show.
Lady Gaga’s Chilling Performance of “Joanne” and “Million Reasons”
Filled with emotion, Gaga, who was nominated for two Grammys, stopped between both songs with a blunt, two-word statement: “Time’s Up” — the first on-stage acknowledgments of the movement that evening.
Alessia Cara Made Canadians (More) Proud
The Brampton-born performer is the first Canadian to win Best New Artist at the Grammys. The well-deserved award came as a total surprise to Alessia, even though she’s been “pretend-winning Grammys since I was kid, like in my shower,” says the young star.
Janelle Monae’s Empowering Speech
Debuting her new platinum ‘do and donning a stunning Dolce & Gabbana suit, Monae’s passionate words in support of the Time’s Up movement before welcoming singer Kesha to the stage rocked the crowd. Our favourite line? “We come in peace, but we mean business,” said Monae.
Kesha’s Triumphant Performance
Kesha’s messy, back-and-forth legal battle to get out of her contract after a sexual assault claim against her producer was one of the biggest entertainment stories in the music industry over the last few years. Last night, her emotionally-charged ballad “Praying” took on a whole new meaning in light of the #MeToo movement. Joined by Cyndi Lauper, Camila Cabello, Andra Day, Julia Michaels and Bebe Rexha, among others, the stage was a sea of outstanding females all dressed in white, and filled with powerful, raw vocals ripping through Madison Square Garden.
Pink Stands Strong and Still
Pink may have arrived in a multi-coloured Armani Privé feathered gown, but that didn’t last long. The singer happily stripped down to a simple, white, off-the-shoulder T and blue jeans for her moving “Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken” Grammys performance to signify something much more important: standing in solidarity with #TimesUp.
