Canada’s Joni Mitchell, Cirkut, Justin Gray Triumph at Grammys Early Awards
The 68th annual Grammy Awards were held on February 1, 2026, in Los Angeles, showcasing a night filled with notable performances and significant wins. Hosted for the sixth and final time by Trevor Noah, the event highlighted an explicit theme surrounding immigration reform, with multiple artists wearing “ICE OUT” pins in protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Joni Mitchell and Canadian Successes
Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell made headlines by winning the award for Best Historical Album for her project “Joni Mitchell Archives – Volume 4: The Asylum Years (1976 to 1980).” During her acceptance speech, she wore an “ICE OUT” button, adding to the night’s political discourse.
- Winner: Joni Mitchell
- Album: Joni Mitchell Archives – Volume 4
- Category: Best Historical Album
In addition, Canadian producers Henry Walter, known as Cirkut, and Justin Gray also achieved milestone victories. Cirkut won Grammy for Producer of the Year, while Gray earned the award for Best Immersive Audio Album, making him the first Canadian in that category.
Cirkut’s Achievements
- Name: Cirkut (Henry Walter)
- Award: Producer of the Year
- Notable Works: “Abracadabra,” “Apt.,” and collaborations with various prominent artists.
Justin Gray’s Immersive Award
- Name: Justin Gray
- Award: Best Immersive Audio Album
- Album: Immersed
Immigration Dialogue at the Grammys
The event was notable not only for its music but also for its strong comments on immigration policies. Bad Bunny, among other stars, used their platform to denounce ICE, emphasizing the humanity of all individuals regardless of immigration status. Billie Eilish, who won Song of the Year for “Wildflower,” stated, “No one is illegal on stolen land” during her acceptance speech.
- Significant Messages:
- Bad Bunny: “ICE out” proclamation during his speech.
- Billie Eilish: Critique of immigration policies.
- Many artists participated in the “ICE OUT” movement.
Kendrick Lamar’s Historic Wins
Kendrick Lamar emerged as the most-awarded rapper in Grammy history, winning four awards this year and surpassing Jay-Z’s previous record. His total now stands at 26 Grammy wins.
- Artist: Kendrick Lamar
- Total Awards This Year: 4
- Total Career Grammys: 26
Other Notable Winners
- Best New Artist: Olivia Dean
- Best Children’s Album: Aura V and Fyütch
- Best R&B Performance: Kehlani
This year’s Grammy Awards illustrated a blend of musical excellence and social activism, establishing a platform for artists to voice their opinions on pressing issues affecting communities nationwide.
