The 2025 Grammy’s were in the wake of lots of hardships in America— the L.A. fires, the removal of DEI initiatives, and many other horribly tragic social welfare issues. The arts have always been a safe space for people to turn to in times of suffering, and the 2025 Grammy’s proved that once again. Celebrities in their red carpet interviews and acceptance speeches showed the how important it is that music and art continues to provide an open space for people— here’s a glimpse into our favorite of the Grammy’s speeches.
L.A. Wildfire Relief
The 2025 Grammy Awards had a remarkably different tone this year. In the wake of the devastating L.A. wildfires, the production was dedicated in honor of those affected and in need. With a call for donations to MusiCares Fire Relief, and highlighting local L.A. businesses, this was a heartwarming dedication. L.A. firefighters were also given a platform to come out on stage and thank first responders for their care during the wildfire spread.
Wins for Women
Not only did artists like Sabrina Carpenter win their first Grammys this year, but the 2025 Grammy’s were dominated by women. Doechii was the third woman to win Best Rap Album, and Beyoncé finally won her much-awaited Album of the Year. We’ve been waiting for women to be more celebrated in the music industry.
Chappell Roan’s Call for Healthcare
After winning her first Grammy for Best New Artist, Chappell Roan had some very important words to say. In her speech, which she had prepared in a small notebook that accompanied her on-stage, she urges record companies to provide their artists with livable wages and healthcare. It’s so refreshing to have people in the industry express their genuine complaints and voice the realities of getting to the top. Hats off to Chappell Roan!
And not only is she a pioneer for healthcare and livable wages in the industry, but she is also a voice for the LGBTQIA+. On the red carpet, she thanked the trans and queer community for inspiring her in her art.
Doechii’s Inspirational Message to Black Women
At the 2025 Grammy Awards, Doechii became the third black woman to win the award for Best Rap Album for her mix-tape Alligator Bites Never Heal. At the end of her tear-jerking speech, she calls out to young black girls and women to remind them that they are capable, saying, “Don’t allow anyone to project any stereotypes on you telling you that you can’t be here right now.” She adds, “You are exactly who you need to be, to be right where you are! And I am a testimony!”
Shakira’s Dedication
And, of course, the queen Shakira won the Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album for her album Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran. In her acceptance speech, she dedicates her win to her, “immigrant brothers and sisters,” and to all women. She consistently makes sure that members of marginalized groups are seen through her music and artistry.
Appreciation for DEI
During Alicia Keys acceptance speech for the Global Impact Award, not only did she talk about how hard it was to gain respect as a female producer first starting out, but she also calls out appreciation for DEI. “DEI is not a threat, it’s a gift,” said Keys. In the contemptuous few weeks since the start of the New Year, we have seen hate and a decline in respect for minorities, and we need this continued stream of love coming from these big voices.
“Trans people are not invisible.”
When Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars won Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, they spent some time thanking each other, obviously. But when Mars let the lovely Lady Gaga take over the mic, she immediately used her voice, saying, “Trans people are not invisible. Trans people deserve love. The queer community deserves to be lifted up. Music is love. Thank you.”
Beyoncé’s Long-Awaited Album of the Year
When Beyoncé finally won her long-awaited AOTY award, there was not a dry eye in the audience.
In her acceptance speech, she thanked the firefighters who presented her with the award for keeping them safe. She also called for everyone to keep pushing forward and opening doors. Let’s not move back to the past; the strides made in the industry over the past few years have been astronomical!
The Weeknd’s Big Statement
Finally, after a year-long boycott, singer The Weeknd returned to the Grammy’s once again. He’s spent years being very vocal about the corruption of the Grammy’s, and stopped submitting his name for consideration back in 2021. This all ended at the 2025 Grammy’s though, when he performed his song, “Cry for Me.” The Recording Academy’s very own CEO, Harvey Mason Jr. introduced him while expressing the changes made to the Grammy voting process that led The Weeknd to attend the award show once again.
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