At the Grammy Awards 2026, migration was mainly discussed. Bad Bunny won for the first time for an album that is not in English.
One of the most famous music award ceremonies is back again. The 68th Grammy Awards took place in sunny Los Angeles, once again showing who rules the music scene. History was rewritten by singer Bad Bunny. The most awards were taken away by Kendrick Lamar. Sharp words and criticism were also directed at the actions of agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in US cities.
Whoever claims that art is not political, most likely has never met an artist. Because, in the end, every act is at least partly political. But the performances of last night's singers were not partial. The immigration policy of U.S. President Donald Trump is not only causing concern among Americans. British singer and winner of the best new artist award Olivia Dean also spoke up in defense of immigrants.
ICE OUT
The entire evening was in the spirit of ICE OUT badges, which adorned the chests of many artists. Billie Eilish, along with her brother Finneas, joined the protest with a simple slogan that clearly showed which side this duo stands on.
"No one can be an immigrant on stolen land. Our voices are important, we are important, so let's continue to protest,"
The clear statement was made as the duo received the award for song of the year, as they also reminded on Instagram.
The American singer Shaboozey also took home his first award for the best country duo/group, together with Jelly Roll. His dedication caused a lot of emotion and a stir.
"She worked in three to four jobs, just to support me and my four siblings as immigrants in this country. Thank you, mom,"
he also did not forget to mention that according to him, immigrants are literally building this country.
"This is also for those who came to this country seeking better opportunities, to be part of a nation that promises freedom for all and equal opportunities for everyone who is willing to work for it."
"Thank you for bringing your culture, music, stories, and traditions,"
he added and ended the whole dedication by saying that they are the ones who make America more colorful.
Bad Bunny is making history
Considerable attention went to the winner of the album of the year. Bad Bunny is indeed the first Latin American artist to receive an award in this category. His album DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS is sung mostly in Spanish, which makes the whole win even slightly sweeter and more iconic. But even he did not hold back in his acceptance speech.
"Before thanking God, I would like to say, away with ICE. We are not animals or savages, we are people. Hatred is only stronger by hatred, and love is only stronger, so please, let's be different. If we are going to fight, we have to fight with love,"
he stated according to the BBC. His speech was perhaps the most powerful political moment of the entire event.
Nervousness rises
The Grammy Awards clearly showed that the whole political scene in the USA is picking up speed. While turbulent protests are taking place in Minneapolis, celebrities are using their reach and siding with one side or the other. Few people remain silent at this moment. Society is currently clearly divided into two sides and this is more noticeable than ever before.
"I don't think anyone would say that we want free movement at the borders. But what is happening is not the arrest of criminals at all. These are people who have families and contribute to this country for decades,"
summarized the whole backstage situation by singer Gloria Estefan.
Sources: author's text, BBC, usatoday.com, novinky.cz
