Grammys 2026 sees Kendrick Lamar break Jay-Z's rap record

Kendrick Lamar became the most-awarded rapper at the 68th Grammys, and Justin Bieber performed a solo wearing boxer shorts.

The 68th annual Grammy Awards combined high-profile musical milestones with moments of public solidarity. Performers and winners used speeches and performances to address political and immigration concerns amid wider public anxiety. Several historic wins and unexpected performances were noted across the main broadcast and the pre-telecast Premiere ceremony. Canadian artists featured among the night’s winners. Highlights: - Kendrick Lamar became the most-awarded rapper after his album "GNX" won best rap album, which pushed him past Jay‑Z’s previous total of 25 wins; he later shared record of the year with SZA for "Luther," bringing his career total to 27. - Bad Bunny won album of the year and was reported as the first Spanish-language artist to receive that prize. - Justin Bieber performed a solo of "Yukon" while wearing boxer shorts and socks during the televised show. - Joni Mitchell won best historical album for "Joni Mitchell Archives — Volume 4: The Asylum Years" at the Premiere ceremony, bringing her career total to 11 Grammys and appearing with an "ICE OUT" button. - Halifax-born producer Cirkut (Henry Walter) won best dance pop recording for Lady Gaga’s "Abracadabra" and took producer of the year. - Toronto musician Justin Gray won best immersive audio album for "Immersed," becoming the first Canadian to win that category. Summary: The ceremony combined artistic achievements with public remarks from performers that referenced immigration and political concerns, making the night notable for both music milestones and statements on current issues. Undetermined at this time.