Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar Triumph at 2026 Grammys Amid Anti-ICE Sentiment

At the 2026 Grammy Awards, Bad Bunny and Kendrick Lamar emerged victorious, highlighting their exemplary contributions to music amid a backdrop of anti-ICE sentiments. The event was marked by strong statements against immigration enforcement, as numerous artists used their platform to protest.

Bad Bunny’s Historic Wins

Bad Bunny received three Grammys: Album of the Year, Best Música Urbana Album, and Global Music Performance. This achievement made him the first Spanish-language artist to win Album of the Year.

While accepting his award, Bad Bunny proclaimed, “We’re not savage, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens, we’re humans,” calling for love over hate in the ongoing immigration discourse.

Kendrick Lamar Breaks Grammy Records

Kendrick Lamar celebrated a historic milestone by becoming the most-awarded rapper in Grammy history. With five wins, including Record of the Year for “Luther” with SZA, Lamar has now amassed a total of 27 Grammy awards, surpassing Jay-Z’s previous record.

During his speech, he expressed his feelings through music instead of words, while SZA urged unity, saying, “We’re not governed by the government, we’re governed by God.”

Artists Speaking Out Against ICE

Many musicians used their acceptance speeches to address the topic of immigration. Billie Eilish, who won Song of the Year for “Wildflower,” stated, “No one is illegal on stolen land.” She encouraged continued activism and protest.

Olivia Dean received the Best New Artist award and highlighted her immigrant heritage, emphasizing bravery and representation.

Additional Highlights from the Night

• Lady Gaga won awards for Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Dance-Pop Recording, addressing challenges women face in the music industry.
• Steven Spielberg achieved EGOT status with a win for Best Music Film, adding to his distinguished career.
• Jelly Roll won Contemporary Country Album, while Joni Mitchell received her 11th Grammy for Best Historical Album.

A Night of Reflection and Tribute

The event included emotional tributes, such as Post Malone honoring Ozzy Osbourne. The evening ended with memorable performances from artists like Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber, who captivated the audience with their talent.

Overall, the 2026 Grammy Awards showcased not just musical talent but also a collective voice against anti-ICE sentiments, reflecting the industry’s commitment to social issues.