Ranking the 2026 Grammy Performances from Worst to Best

The 2026 Grammy Awards showcased a mix of performances, ranging from lackluster to outstanding. The ceremony has improved in recent years, transitioning from self-indulgent moments to a celebration of diverse musical talent. Although many celebrated artists did not perform, the night featured some notable acts that left their marks on the audience.

Overview of Performances

This year’s Grammy ceremony was notable for its focus on new talent and meaningful tribute performances. While big winners like Bad Bunny and Kendrick Lamar skipped the stage, other artists seized the spotlight. Here’s a ranking of the performances from worst to best:

19. Trevor Noah with Bad Bunny

• Trevor Noah attempted to engage Bad Bunny, who was absent from performing.
• His routine felt forced and lacked genuine connection.

18. Alex Warren

• Warren struggled to deliver an engaging performance.
• He blamed technical issues but failed to impress even with perfect conditions.

17. Leon Thomas

Thomas delivered a standard performance, showing some guitar skills yet still landing in the realm of mediocrity.

16. Reba McEntire, Brandy Clark, and Lukas Nelson

This group rendition served as the emotional in memoriam moment. It was heartfelt but functioned more as a tribute than an engaging performance.

15. Bruno Mars and Rosé

The duo’s opening was lively but lacked cohesion. Mars brought energy, though Rosé’s role felt secondary.

14. Post Malone with Slash

Post Malone performed “War Pigs” but left audiences questioning the choice for an Ozzy Osbourne tribute without the full band.

13. Olivia Dean

• Dean’s charm shone through in a cute performance, strengthening her position as the Best New Artist.
• Her stage presence left a lasting impression.

12. The Marías

The performance featured serene vocals and interactive guitar segments, displaying the duo’s cohesive artistic vision.

11. Lola Young

Young’s performance captured attention with intensity, showcasing her emotional range in a powerful ballad.

10. Tyler, The Creator with Regina King

An enigmatic and dramatic performance that kept the audience guessing, showcasing Tyler’s creativity.

9. Sabrina Carpenter

• Carpenter’s lively performance, complete with whimsical set design, engaged viewers effectively.
• Her uniqueness stood out and showcased her vocal capabilities.

8. Addison Rae

Rae’s dynamic staging and hair-flipping routine added a fresh touch to the ceremony, captivating the audience.

7. Sombr

With a strikingly confident performance, Sombr impressed audiences with his charisma and stage presence.

6. KATSEYE

KATSEYE delivered a frenetic performance, featuring elaborate choreography that highlighted their artistry.

5. Bruno Mars (Second Performance)

In his second act of the night, Mars embodied a classic Vegas vibe, elevating the overall atmosphere.

4. Clipse with Pharrell

Despite recent controversies, the Clipse delivered a strong performance, showcasing their talent and artistry effectively.

3. Ms. Lauryn Hill and Ensemble

A heartfelt tribute to D’Angelo that paid homage to iconic artists while maintaining a sense of community.

2. Lady Gaga

The powerhouse performer dazzled with her creative staging and vocal prowess, setting a high bar for artistic expression.

1. Justin Bieber

In an audacious move, Bieber stripped down to boxers, delivering a raw and intimate performance that resonated deeply with viewers.

The 2026 Grammy performances highlighted a blend of new faces and seasoned artists, showcasing the evolving landscape of the music industry. While some performances failed to leave a mark, many others succeeded in creating memorable moments for the audience and celebrating musical excellence.