
History was made, happy tears were shed – and stances were taken.
The 2025 Grammy Awards held some substance, in addition to the usual heaps of style. The queen herself, Beyoncé, shattered several records with her bevy of wins, and the likes of Chappell Roan continued to push back against the bad actors in the industry. It was certainly a ceremony to remember – in large part because honorees provided us with both inspiration and hope.
It’s an especially refreshing reminder that some with power – women especially – will stand up for what’s good, at a time when rights are being taken away, a global trade war looms, and “broligarchs” and autocrats are taking over Washington.
But back to music’s biggest night. Here are five wins – and five acceptance speeches – we’ll be carrying forward this week.
Beyoncé’s Stellar Night
“[S]ometimes genre is a code word to keep us in our place as artists, and I just want to encourage people to … stay persistent.” – At long last, Beyoncé won Album of the Year at the Grammys, for “Cowboy Carter.” But as satisfying as it was to see her snag the top prize of the night after years of being denied, her win for Best Country Album thrilled us all the more, because she is the first Black woman ever to do so. And her potent words about disregarding hateful gatekeeping certainly apply outside of the music industry.
Doechii’s Touching Dedication
“Don’t allow anybody to project any stereotypes on you that tell you … you’re too dark, or that you’re not smart enough, or that you’re too dramatic, or you’re too loud.” – In one of the more touching moments of the evening, Doechii took home the Best Rap Album award for “Alligator Bites Never Heal,” a distinction only three women (including her) have ever received. While accepting it, she celebrated her sobriety, her faith – and her Blackness. She added, to all of the Black girls and women watching: “You are exactly who you need to be, to be right where you are, and I’m a testimony.”
Alicia Keys Celebrates Difference
“DEI is not a threat; it’s a gift. And the more voices, the more powerful the sound.” – The phrase “DEI” – short for diversity, equity and inclusion – has become the latest dog whistle used by conservatives to group then dismiss marginalized people. (See also: “Woke” and “Critical Race Theory.”) In addition, DEI programs that help people of color, women, disabled individuals and more thrive in workplaces that have traditionally been hostile to them are being eradicated. While accepting the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award, Keys fervently reminded us that “this is not the time to shut down a diversity of voices.”
Lady Gaga Takes a Stand
“Trans people are not invisible. Trans people deserve love. The queer community deserves to be lifted up.” – Our new presidential administration has taken early aim at the LGBTQ community as a whole, with particular ire directed at transgender Americans. While accepting the award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance alongside Bruno Mars for their song, “Die with a Smile,” Lady Gaga continued her years-long allyship to LGBTQ people by plainly defending them onstage.
Chappell Roan Stays Vocal
“Record labels need to treat their artists as valuable employees with a livable wage and health insurance and protection.” – Chappell Roan, this year’s Best New Artist winner, is no stranger to speaking truth to power. As her star has risen, so too has her voice – her voice of protest, that is. Upon winning, she honored a promise she’d made to herself: “That if I ever won a Grammy, and got to stand up here before the most powerful people in music, I would demand that labels … offer [fair pay and benefits], especially developing artists.” She recalled feeling betrayed and dehumanized by the industry’s alternating use and dismissal of her – and hopes no other up-and-comer is made to feel the same way.