A Night of Music and Meaning: YUNGBLUD, Kehlani, and Nate Smith Highlight the Grammy Premiere Ceremony

Los Angeles, CA – February 1st, 2026 – The 68th Annual Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony opened with a performance of “Shining Star” featuring an ensemble of artists, including Earth, Wind & Fire, Israel Houghton, Lila Iké, Grace Potter, Maggie Rose, and Trombone Shorty.

Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of The Recording Academy, shortly after made a speech and called the performance and song “not just a classic”, but a performance of joy and resilience.

During his speech, he stated that The Recording Academy’s official mission is: “We’re here to support, to protect, and elevate the music community. Yeah, we celebrate excellence. Give awards, we have parties. But we also advocate for fairness. We fight for creators rights.” He continued on by stating how they are here to make sure the people behind the music are also recognized.

Dr. Chelsea Green had another important speech. She promises that this academy will continue to evolve the breath, brilliance, and diversity of the industry.

She and host Darren Criss, emphasized the importance of music and how it is powerful, connecting people while being uplifting and healing.

Grammy Camp was mentioned as a place to uplift the next generations of artists.

After the inspiring speeches made, they quickly began announcing the winners of each category.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 01: L-R) Kehlani accepts the Best R&B Performance award for “Folded” with DIXSON onstage during the 68th GRAMMY Awards Premiere Ceremony at Peacock Theater on February 01, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

Artists came up and accepted their awards, and although only given 45 seconds, many made the most out of it. Gesaffelstein for example, took the award and simply bowed and blew a kiss to the crowd. Kehlani on the other hand used the time she had to take a stance on ICE.

Breaking up the time, there were many outstanding performances. Zara Larsson performed her song ‘Midnight Sun’, which was also nominated for Best Dance Pop Record. Tasha Cobbs Leonard, nominated for Best Gospel Album, performed with her husband Kenneth Leonard. Host Darren Criss performed a song from his Broadway Musical with his costar Helen J Shen. And more.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 01: Tasha Cobbs Leonard performs onstage during the 68th GRAMMY Awards Premiere Ceremony at Peacock Theater on February 01, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

There were many different stances being taken during the show, including stances on AI. Alternative Jazz Album winner Nate Smith made a speech about how music is about human beings playing together, and how AI is ruining this for musicians.

There were many inspiring winners during the premiere, but a standout one was YUNGBLUD’s win for Best Rock Performance for when he performed Ozzy Osbourne’s ‘Changes’ (Live From Villa Park). Yungblud proudly accepted the award alongside Ozzy’s family. He dedicated the moment to Ozzy by honoring him in his speech.

The show continued with many impactful and inspiring moments, offering a powerful start to Grammy night and a meaningful celebration of artistry, resilience, and connection.