Bad Bunny Makes History with Album of the Year Win as Kendrick Lamar and Billie Eilish Claim Major Honors at 2026 Grammys

February 02, 2026

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards delivered a night of historic firsts, emotional moments, and powerful statements Sunday at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Bad Bunny etched his name in Grammy history by becoming the first artist to win Album of the Year for a primarily Spanish-language project with "Debí Tirar Más Fotos." Kendrick Lamar added to his legacy with multiple wins including Record of the Year for "luther" featuring SZA, while Billie Eilish took Song of the Year for "Wildflower" and Olivia Dean captured Best New Artist in a ceremony filled with standout performances and pro-immigration messages amid ongoing national debates.

Hosted by Trevor Noah for the final time at the current venue, the telecast featured electrifying appearances from Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, ROSÉ, Tyler the Creator, and tributes that celebrated music's diverse voices.

Big Four Winners Mark Milestones

Bad Bunny's "Debí Tirar Más Fotos" claimed Album of the Year in an emotional acceptance speech where the Puerto Rican superstar spoke in both English and Spanish about love prevailing over hate during turbulent times. The win marked the first time a full Spanish-language album earned the night's top prize, underscoring the growing global influence of Latin music.

Kendrick Lamar and SZA's collaboration "luther" earned Record of the Year, adding to Lamar's haul that included Best Rap Album for "GNX" and Best Rap Song for "tv off" featuring Lefty Gunplay. With these victories, Lamar surpassed Jay-Z to become the most awarded rapper in Grammy history with 27 wins.

Billie Eilish and Finneas secured Song of the Year for "Wildflower," marking their third win in the category and bringing Eilish's total Grammys to double digits. The sibling duo's win highlighted their continued dominance in songwriting excellence.

British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean won Best New Artist, becoming the first British recipient since Dua Lipa in 2019 and the ninth consecutive woman to claim the award. Dean delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on her immigrant family roots, tying into broader themes of the evening.

Performances and Statements Steal Spotlight

The night featured high-energy sets from Lady Gaga reimagining "Abracadabra," ROSÉ and Bruno Mars performing "APT.," and Tyler the Creator showcasing tracks from "Chromakopia." Cher made a surprise appearance to present Record of the Year after receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award earlier, creating a memorable moment as she handed the trophy to Lamar.

Several winners used their platforms to address immigration issues amid recent protests and policy debates. Bad Bunny and Olivia Dean both spoke out in support of immigrants, drawing strong audience reactions.

Other Notable Wins Across Genres

Kendrick Lamar dominated rap categories with additional wins for Best Rap Performance ("Chains & Whips" by Clipse featuring Kendrick Lamar & Pharrell Williams). Lady Gaga earned Best Pop Vocal Album for "Mayhem." Doechii took home awards in R&B and alternative categories, while emerging talents like Lola Young and Leon Thomas added to the night's diversity.

The ceremony also honored legends through tributes, including segments celebrating Lauryn Hill and Post Malone's influences.

As the Grammys transition to a new broadcast home next year on ABC, Hulu, and Disney+, the 2026 edition will be remembered for breaking barriers in language and genre while delivering unforgettable music moments. With Bad Bunny's groundbreaking triumph and Lamar's record-setting night, the awards underscored music's power to bridge cultures and spark conversations in challenging times.