Wednesday, February 5th, 2025

Grammy Awards 2025: Beyoncé Takes Album of the Year, Kendrick Lamar Wins Big

The 67th Grammy Awards, held on February 2 in Los Angeles, was a night of musical triumphs, emotional tributes, and standout performances. The evening marked a historic win for Beyoncé, who secured the coveted Album of the Year award for Cowboy Carter, solidifying her status as one of the most celebrated artists of all time. Rising star Chappell Roan also made waves, distinguishing herself among the industry’s brightest new talents.

A Night of Celebration Amidst Tragedy

Despite the recent wildfires that devastated parts of Los Angeles, the Recording Academy decided to proceed with the event, using it as an opportunity to raise funds for the thousands affected by the disaster. Just days before the ceremony, a major benefit concert was held, featuring performances by some of the night’s Grammy nominees, including Billie Eilish, in an effort to provide relief to those impacted.

The Fiercest Competition of the Evening

One of the most highly anticipated showdowns of the night was the battle for Album of the Year between Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. While Swift was a formidable contender with The Tortured Poets Department, it was Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter that ultimately took the prize. This marked a historic first for the 43-year-old artist, who had been nominated in the category multiple times but had never previously won.

The competition extended across various genres, with nominees like Billie Eilish (Hit Me Hard and Soft), Sabrina Carpenter (Short n’ Sweet), and André 3000 (New Blue Sun) also vying for the title.

Kendrick Lamar and Other Major Winners

Rapper Kendrick Lamar emerged as one of the night’s biggest winners, securing multiple awards, including Record of the Year for Not Like Us. The song’s impact was undeniable, resonating strongly with audiences and critics alike. Other major category winners included Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift, and Chappell Roan, all of whom made significant marks in their respective genres.

Key Award Winners

Album of the Year:

  • Cowboy Carter – Beyoncé

  • New Blue Sun – André 3000

  • Short n’ Sweet – Sabrina Carpenter

  • Brat – Charli XCX

  • Djesse Vol. 4 – Jacob Collier

  • Hit Me Hard and Soft – Billie Eilish

  • The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess – Chappell Roan

  • The Tortured Poets Department – Taylor Swift

Record of the Year:

  • Now And Then – The Beatles

  • Texas Hold’Em – Beyoncé

  • Espresso – Sabrina Carpenter

  • 360 – Charli XCX

  • Birds of a Feather – Billie Eilish

  • Not Like Us – Kendrick Lamar

  • Good Luck, Babe! – Chappell Roan

  • Fortnight – Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone

Song of the Year:

  • A Bar Song (Tipsy) – Shaboozey

  • Birds of a Feather – Billie Eilish

  • Die With a Smile – Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars

  • Fortnight – Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone

  • Good Luck, Babe! – Chappell Roan

  • Not Like Us – Kendrick Lamar

  • Please Please Please – Sabrina Carpenter

  • Texas Hold’Em – Beyoncé

Best New Artist:

  • Benson Boone

  • Sabrina Carpenter

  • Doechii

  • Khruangbin

  • Raye

  • Chappell Roan

  • Shaboozey

  • Teddy Swims

Highlights in Pop, Rock, and Country

Pop and rock categories saw intense competition, with Beyoncé’s Bodyguard taking home Best Pop Solo Performance, and Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department earning Best Pop Vocal Album. Meanwhile, Billie Eilish, Charli XCX, and Sabrina Carpenter all had strong showings in the pop categories.

In rock, The Rolling Stones’ Hackney Diamonds was among the standout contenders for Best Rock Album, alongside releases from Pearl Jam, Green Day, and Jack White. Kendrick Lamar’s dominance in the rap categories was evident, while Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter also claimed Best Country Album, marking a groundbreaking moment in her career as she continues to push genre boundaries.

A Historic and Meaningful Evening

The 2025 Grammy Awards successfully blended celebration and social responsibility, honoring the biggest names in music while also acknowledging the hardships faced by many in the wake of natural disasters. With groundbreaking wins and record-breaking moments, this year’s ceremony will be remembered not just for its glamour, but also for its impact beyond the music industry.