This year’s Grammy Awards were simply outstanding.

Beyoncé finally clinched a well-deserved gramophone for album of the year with “Cowboy Carter.” The Recording Academy balanced the spotlight on exciting newcomers like Doechii and Chappell Roan, alongside iconic talents such as Kendrick Lamar and Lady Gaga. The performances were exceptional, matching last year’s stellar lineup featuring Joni Mitchell, Miley Cyrus, and Tracy Chapman.

Sunday’s telecast wrapped up a weekend packed with music events in Los Angeles, including Clive Davis’ pre-Grammys gala featuring Barry Manilow and Post Malone, as well as an all-star benefit concert for California wildfire relief, which featured a reunion of Nirvana.

Here’s a ranking of the best and less impressive moments from the 2025 Grammys:

11. Dawes, ‘I Love L.A.’

Brothers Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith kickstarted the show with an all-star ensemble that included John Legend, Brad Paisley, Sheryl Crow, Brittany Howard, and St. Vincent. Their cheerful tribute to Los Angeles was enjoyable, although a bit confusing, as Randy Newman’s 1983 song was originally a satirical piece contrasting the glamor of the city with less glamorous realities. While a medley showcasing LA’s musical diversity could’ve been more fitting, it was difficult to criticize an act delivered with such good intent.

10. The Weeknd, ‘Cry For Me’ and ‘Timeless’

The well-known R&B/pop artist treated the audience to a stunning visual experience during his surprise medley from the newly released album “Hurry Up Tomorrow.” Unfortunately, he seemed to blend into the smoke-filled spectacle, standing at the rear of the stage in a hood and sunglasses while masked dancers moved in front of him. Considering his past grievances with Grammy diversity, we hoped for a more standout performance on his return.

9. Chris Martin, ‘All My Love’

During this year’s poignant “in memoriam” segment, Coldplay’s lead singer showcased his impressive vocal abilities with a straightforward yet poignant piano performance. While it was a touching moment, it didn’t quite match the emotional depth of previous tributes, such as the 2022 Grammys’ powerful medley by Cynthia Erivo, Rachel Zegler, Leslie Odom Jr., and Ben Platt.

8. Billie Eilish, ‘Birds of a Feather’

Billie Eilish, alongside her brother Finneas, delivered a beautifully sentimental rendition of their viral hit from her third album “Hit Me Hard and Soft.” Eilish, who has been on tour for the past few months, displayed a softer tone in her delivery, particularly in the final chorus. Regardless, the performance struck an emotional chord, enhanced by visuals of their childhood in the LA foothills and canyons shown throughout the song.

7. Shakira, ‘Ojos Asi’ and ‘Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53’

Fresh off her recognition for the best Latin pop album (“Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran”), Shakira amazed the audience with her first performance at the Grammys in almost twenty years. Dressed in gold, she captivated the crowd with an alluring belly dance to “Ojos Asi,” followed by a lively electronic performance of her “Sessions” alongside a crew of dancers. This burst of energy was a refreshing pick-me-up as the lengthy telecast entered its fourth hour.

6. Cynthia Erivo, Herbie Hancock, Lainey Wilson, Stevie Wonder, Janelle Monáe: Quincy Jones Tribute

The late producer Quincy Jones received an extensive tribute featuring a medley that spanned generations. Although certain segments dragged, particularly those with Wilson (“Let the Good Times Roll”) and Wonder (“We Are the World”), Erivo wowed everyone with her impressive rendition of “Fly Me to the Moon,” while Monáe impressed with an engaging moonwalk during her lively take on Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.”

5. Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga, ‘California Dreamin’’

Gaga amazed her fans by debuting the “Abracadabra” music video, showcasing her return to the gothic dance-pop scene. Earlier in the evening, she displayed another side of her versatility by joining Bruno Mars for a haunting and understated rendition of the folk-rock classic “California Dreamin.’”

4. Charli XCX, ‘Von Dutch’ and ‘Guess’

Charli XCX boldly showcased her true self during her electrifying Grammys performance. She began “Von Dutch” in the arena’s underbelly, strutting in a black fur coat and hosting a mini-rave with models and cheering fans as the camera swirled around her. Transitioning to the Grammys stage for “Guess,” she slithered and crawled across the floor as underwear rained from above on her group of scantily clad dancers. While some may have been taken aback by her boldness enhanced by strobe lights and heavily AutoTuned vocals, it was a dazzling and chaotic highlight for one of the year’s standout artists.

3. Sabrina Carpenter, ‘Espresso’ and ‘Please Please Please’

Sabrina Carpenter infused her inaugural Grammy performance with humor and charm through an engaging big-band version of her catchy track “Espresso.” After vanishing behind a giant set of stairs, Carpenter revealed a flirty blue bodysuit, leading into an Old Hollywood-style tap performance with a group of backup dancers. It was an enjoyable display of this actress-turned-singer’s theatrical talent, solidifying her status as a true triple threat.

2. Chappell Roan, ‘Pink Pony Club’

Having already set the festival stages ablaze, Chappell Roan confirmed her status as a remarkable live performer once again. Riding a massive pink horse, the Midwest artist transformed the Grammys stage into a vibrant spectacle loaded with glitter and sequins, featuring cacti, tumbleweed, and dancing cowboys. Roan’s dynamic voice, undeniable charisma, and bold display of queer pride with pink, white, and blue flags supporting the trans community were an essential, joyous aspect of the evening’s entertainment.

1. Benson Boone, Doechii, Teddy Swims, Shaboozey, Raye: Best New Artist Medley

This year’s group of best new artists managed to eclipse many seasoned performers. Swims (“Lose Control”) and Shaboozey (“Good News” / “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”) impressed with their deep voices and charisma, while Raye astonished the audience with her powerful vocal performance on the emotional track “Oscar Winning Tears.”

However, Boone and Doechii truly stole the show with their dynamic acts: Boone’s backflips and energetic performance of “Beautiful Things” drew comparisons to Queen’s Freddie Mercury, while Doechii dominated her segments on “Catfish” and “Denial is a River,” showcasing sharp choreography with an engaging group of dancers. It was a surprising and exhilarating moment reminiscent of “Matilda” musical cosplay that introduced a new star to the spotlight.