The 67th annual Grammy Awards began on Sunday evening with a heartfelt tribute to Los Angeles, both the event’s traditional host and a city currently facing significant challenges.

Following recent catastrophic wildfires that ravaged large areas and displaced numerous residents, the music industry’s biggest night proceeded as scheduled but with a greater focus on fundraising for relief efforts.

The impact of this disaster was felt throughout the evening, with many stars donning blue pins on the red carpet in support of the MusiCares relief fund, while host Trevor Noah urged both attendees and viewers to contribute to the cause.

Noah also shared that several commercials aired during the show were offered to local Los Angeles businesses at a reduced price to aid in their recovery from the fires.

Who Started the Grammys?

The ceremony opened with Dawes frontman Taylor Goldsmith performing Randy Newman’s heartfelt song “I Love L.A.” He was joined on stage by his bandmate and brother, Griffin Goldsmith, along with John Legend, Sheryl Crow, St. Vincent, Brittany Howard, and Brad Paisley.

Despite being a band for over 15 years, the Goldsmith brothers had never attended the Grammys before, having been directly affected by the recent Los Angeles wildfires, which destroyed both their homes and their studio last month.

They explained that the ensemble of artists for the opening performance came together just a week and a half prior. “We previously thought the Grammys might not align with our path as a band, but now we’re here opening the show,” Taylor reflected backstage. “It’s surreal to see how our childhood aspirations connect with the chance to help our community.” Taylor expressed hope that their presence—especially since they participated in FireAid last week—would raise awareness, encourage donations, and potentially brighten some faces. “It means everything to us.”

The performance featured a backdrop of footage showcasing firefighters and relief workers working to rebuild, with some lyrics even adjusted to pay tribute to these heroes.

Stunning Red Carpet Moments and Surprises at the Grammys

As the show got underway, the red carpet showcased an array of remarkable moments. Taylor Swift dazzled in a sparkly ruby-red outfit, while Sabrina Carpenter opted for a pastel blue gown reminiscent of Cinderella, and Chappell Roan went for a vibrant, colorful look.

In a surprising appearance, rapper Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, showed up alongside a minimally dressed Brianca Censori, avoiding any potential awkwardness with Taylor Swift, recalling their famous encounter at the MTV VMAs in 2009 that significantly impacted her career.