Diana Ross couldn’t mask her reaction to the winner of the Song of the Year Grammy at the 2025 Grammy Awards. The Motown legend’s surprise appearance had many speculating her friend and protégé, Beyoncé, would take home the honor. Yet, when Ross opened the envelope and announced Kendrick Lamar as the winner for his hit diss track, “Not Like Us,” the iconic singer seemed to let out a deflated, “ah.” Fans and attendees online couldn’t help but relate to the diva’s reaction.
Despite the mixed feelings surrounding the Song of the Year results, Beyoncé’s night ended on quite the high note. She won the coveted Album of the Year for the first time, exuding gratitude during her acceptance speech with daughter Blue Ivy Carter by her side. “I just feel very full and very honored,” she stated. “It is, has been, many, many years, and I just want to thank the Grammys, every songwriter, every collaborator, every producer, all of the hard work.”
The 2025 Grammys, held on February 2, marked Kendrick Lamar’s night as he swept the awards, including Song of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Rap Performance. Presented by Diana Ross, his triumphant moment was made even sweeter as he dedicated the award to “all the West Coast artists” who inspired him. “At the end of the day, nothing’s more powerful than rap music. We are the culture,” Lamar remarked, urging young artists to respect the art form.
DJ Mustard, who co-produced “Not Like Us,” joined Lamar onstage to celebrate his clean sweep. “Somebody get the broom out,” he joked. Winning five Grammys for the track, Lamar faced stiff competition from nominees such as Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, and Taylor Swift, all of whom performed during the ceremony.
Despite the glitz and glam, the mood was underpinned by the somber reality of recent wildfires devastating Los Angeles. The Recording Academy shifted its emphasis toward relief efforts during the event. Ross, clad in her dazzling Dolce & Gabbana outfit, addressed the audience with inspiring words, stating, “May this moment remind us all of the power we hold. Even in the darkness, we can rise again and keep the light of hope and love alive.” Many attendees sported blue pins symbolizing their support for MusiCares, as performances paid tribute to those affected by the fires.
Not only did Lamar capture awards, but his performances also stood out, alongside other artists like Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, and Sabrina Carpenter. The night featured moving tributes and emotional renditions, including Taylor Goldsmith’s opening performance of Randy Newman’s “I Love L.A.” with collaborations from notable musicians.
Sabrina Carpenter also made waves at the ceremony, winning Best Pop Vocal Album for her project titled “Short N' Sweet.” The reactions elicited from the night’s female powerhouses, particularly Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, showcased the overall respect and camaraderie within the music community, solidifying the event’s significance.
Throughout the evening, the emotional weight of the Los Angeles wildfires was palpable, reminding everyone of their solidarity and resilience. The Grammys, guided by host Trevor Noah, not only honored musical excellence but also emphasized the importance of community and support during trying times.
With Kendrick Lamar's remarkable achievements echoing through the hall and Diana Ross reminding everyone of their power through hope and love, the 2025 Grammy Awards will be remembered not just for the awards, but for the moments of connection and tribute to both the city and those who have suffered through recent adversities.