Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Gala Features HUNTR/X, Art Garfunkel, Clipse & More
The Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Gala dazzled attendees with heartfelt tributes and remarkable performances. Held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, the event took place on January 31, the day officially dubbed “Clive Davis Day” by the city. The gala commemorated late heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne and showcased various musical talents.
Tributes and Performances
MGK and Jelly Roll set the tone for the evening with renditions of Osbourne’s classics “I Don’t Wanna Stop” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” The night was filled with captivating performances, including:
- Alex Warren performing “Ordinary”
- Sombr with “12 to 12”
- Clipse and John Legend’s “The Birds Don’t Sing”
- Olivia Dean with “Man I Need”
- The trio HUNTR/X performing “Golden” from “Kpop Demon Hunters”
The performance by HUNTR/X highlighted the event, showcasing impressive vocals from real singers Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami. This fictional girl group proved their mettle in live performance.
Star-Studded Attendance
Clive Davis, the 93-year-old music mogul, hosted the event in his iconic sequined suit. Among the distinguished guests were:
- Joni Mitchell
- Nancy Pelosi
- Berry Gordy
- Brandi Carlile
- Stevie Wonder
The night also honored Republic Records’ founders, Monte Lipman and Avery Lipman, who received the 2026 Grammy Salute to Industry Icons Award. Their contributions to the industry were recognized by prominent figures like Stevie Wonder.
A Shifting Tone
This year’s gala had a different atmosphere compared to the previous year’s focus on supporting relief efforts after devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area. Outside the venue, a small group of protestors rallied against immigration enforcement, calling attention to their cause with a megaphone.
Memorable Highlights
In a touching segment, Jennifer Hudson honored Roberta Flack with “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” while Dan + Shay paid tribute to Art Garfunkel. Garfunkel closed the show with “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” reflecting on the song’s rich orchestration.
Throughout the evening, Davis’s ability to spot talent was emphasized, with former President Barack Obama sharing his admiration via a video message. He acknowledged Davis’s role in launching artists such as Janis Joplin, Bruce Springsteen, and Whitney Houston.
This exclusive gala is considered a highlight of Grammy week, showcasing the best in the music industry. As Gayle King articulated, “He’s the best friend a song ever had.”
Looking Ahead to the 68th Grammy Awards
The 68th Grammy Awards are set for February 1 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The ceremony will air on CBS and stream on Paramount+. For updates and coverage on this monumental event, visit Filmogaz.com.
