Music’s biggest night turned into a moment of protest as several top artistes used the Grammy Awards stage to speak out against immigration raids across the United States, with Bad Bunny leading the charge.
Tension around Immigration and Customs Enforcement was unmistakable inside the Los Angeles venue, as anger continues to grow over raids carried out by heavily armed, masked agents in cities nationwide. Public outrage has intensified following the killing of two US citizens by federal agents in Minneapolis last month, fuelling fears that the operations are sweeping up people based on language, appearance, or ethnicity.
As he accepted the Grammy for Best Música Urbana Album, Bad Bunny drew thunderous applause when he declared, “Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say ICE out.” The Puerto Rican star, set to headline the Super Bowl halftime show, went further, reminding the audience that immigrants are human beings and Americans, not criminals or outsiders.
His message echoed across the ceremony. On the red carpet, amid designer gowns and tailored suits, several attendees wore “ICE out” buttons, including Justin and Hailey Bieber, Joni Mitchell, Jordan Tyson, and actress-singer Helen J. Shen, turning fashion into quiet resistance.
Backstage, Gloria Estefan spoke candidly after winning Best Tropical Latin Album, admitting she was scared and deeply troubled by what she described as inhumane actions. She questioned the narrative of targeting criminals, pointing instead to families torn apart and children held in detention centres, saying she barely recognised the country she loves.
British singer Olivia Dean, named Best New Artist, reflected on her roots as the granddaughter of an immigrant. She described herself as a product of courage and resilience, adding that such stories deserve celebration, not punishment.
Country breakout star Shaboozey, who won Best Country Duo/Group Performance alongside Jelly Roll, dedicated his award to immigrants and their children. Born in Virginia to Nigerian parents, he reminded viewers that immigrants helped build the nation and continue to shape its culture, music, and identity.
Billie Eilish, accepting Song of the Year for “Wildflower,” acknowledged her gratitude but used the moment to stress that no one is illegal on stolen land. She admitted the times feel overwhelming, yet insisted that speaking up, protesting, and using collective voices still matters.
R&B singer SZA, sharing Record of the Year honours with Kendrick Lamar, summed up the unease felt by many in the room. She described the contrast between glamorous celebrations and reports of people being seized or killed on the streets as deeply disturbing. While admitting feelings of rage and hopelessness, she urged against despair, warning that change becomes impossible once morale is lost.
As the night ended, the awards may have been handed out, but the message from the stage was unmistakable: for many artists, silence is no longer an option.
