The 67th annual Grammy Awards saw a mix of triumphant performances and underwhelming sets. While industry veterans like Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar dominated the major categories, rising stars like Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Doechii brought energy and innovation to the stage.
Sabrina Carpenter, nominated for several awards for her album "Short n' Sweet," showcased her versatility with a Lucille Ball-esque performance, blending "Espresso" and "Please Please Please" with comedic bits and tap dancing. Chappell Roan, who won Best New Artist, delivered a powerful rendition of her gay-awakening anthem "Pink Pony Club" and used her acceptance speech to advocate for better working conditions in the music industry.
Doechii, the self-described "Swamp Princess," impressed with a medley of "Catfish" and "Denial Is a River" and became the third woman to win Best Rap Album. Raye, nominated for Best New Artist and Songwriter of the Year, delivered a show-stopping performance of "Oscar-Winning Tears," showcasing her impressive vocal range.
Charli XCX provided a much-needed energy boost with her "Brat" medley, performing "Von Dutch" and "Guess" with a lively entourage and a rain of undergarments. The performance was a stark contrast to Billie Eilish's static rendition of "Birds of a Feather," which lacked the energy of her previous Grammy performances.
Benson Boone and Teddy Swims, both known for their popular singles, delivered predictable performances that failed to impress. Boone's performance of "Beautiful Things" felt repetitive, while Swims' rendition of "Lose Control" lacked the dynamism of Doechii's set.