Top 5 Grammy Moments —2025
written by @najerimonica
As we approach one week since the 2025 Grammy’s, I’ve had time to take in all that’s happened and my favorite parts of the star-studded night. Between one of the world's “Most Famous Streamers” giving us exclusive behind-the-scenes content that made us feel like we were part of the action and Kendrick Lamar taking home FIVE Grammy’s for ‘Not Like Us’, this year's award show felt like a win for Hip hop and the culture. Here are my TOP 5 moments from the night!
Starting off strong with #5 – Kai Cenat streaming on the red carpet
I’d say that experiencing Kai Cenat’s perspective of the Grammy red carpet through his Twitch stream was one of the most Gen Z moments of the night! I often tune into Kai’s streams to see what entertaining antics he’s up to or which celebrity guest he might have at the AMP crib.
However, witnessing him navigate the red carpet in real time was unbelievable.
I appreciate how Cenat shares his unique first-time experiences with his audience. Being able to catch the behind the scenes of the 23-year-old - Bronx native experiencing it with us via Twitch stream was amazing.
We watched him meet Vybez Cartel, confront Elliott Wilson in the middle of his Complex Interview, and also link with Will Smith for a quick wardrobe malfunction all while ON stream.
#4 Alicia Keys receiving the: Dr. Dre Global Impact Award
The ‘Dr. Dre Global Impact Award’ was introduced in 2023, coinciding with Hip Hop’s 50th Anniversary. Dr. Dre received the award in its inaugural year, followed by Jay-Z in the second year. This award recognizes artists whose influence extends beyond music, celebrating not only artistic excellence but also entrepreneurial achievements, philanthropic efforts, and global cultural impact.
Watching Queen Latifah present the award to Alicia Keys was truly inspiring. Keys’ speech served as a call to action as she highlighted the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI):
"When destructive forces try to burn us down, we rise from the ashes like a phoenix. And as you see tonight, music is the unstoppable language that connects us all — it's so beautiful”
It was remarkable to witness Alicia focus on such a vital topic in American society while also being honored for her musical achievements in the culture.
#3 Beyonce winning – Country Album of the Year & AOTY
In 2024, Beyoncé set out on a journey, determined to challenge the longstanding conventions of the music industry. With the release of her groundbreaking album, "Cowboy Carter," she conveyed a powerful message about the importance of authenticity and artistic expression. The album served as a reminder to all artists that staying true to oneself and creating art that resonates personally is vital, regardless of the obstacles one may face.
Beyoncé's journey culminated a historic moment when she became the first Black woman to receive the prestigious award for Country Album of the Year. This milestone not only showcased her versatility as an artist but also inspired countless individuals who have long been underrepresented in the genre. For years, fans had witnessed her being overshadowed in the category of Album of the Year, often coming close but ultimately missing out. However, this year was different. After a long-awaited victory, Beyoncé finally took home the Album of the Year award.
As she stood on stage, sharing the precious moment with her daughter, Blue Ivy Carter — it was a heartwarming sight, symbolizing dedication to her craft but also the legacy she is building for the next generation. In an impromptu interview with Kevin Frazier shortly after leaving the stage, Beyoncé expressed the significance of this win. She articulated how this recognition validated her years of hard work and resilience, and she emphasized the importance of pursuing one's creative vision with pride and tenacity.
#2 – Doechii winning RAP album of the year
In August 2024, Tampa’s own Doechii released her third mixtape, "Alligator Bites Never Heal." Since its launch, she has received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback, both for the project and for the consistent promotion of the 19-track album.
Her rapping abilities and storytelling skills are exceptionally showcased in this project. Competing against notable peers like Common, Pete Rock, Eminem, J. Cole, Future, and Metro Boomin for the category of RAP Album of the Year, I was thrilled to see her take home the trophy and hear her beautiful acceptance speech.
#1 – Kendrick Lamar Takes home 5 Grammys for Not Like Us
My favorite part of Grammy night was watching Kendrick Lamar take home five Grammy Awards for his song “Not Like Us.” He won in the categories of Best Music Video, Best Rap Song, Best Rap Performance, Song of the Year, and Record of the Year.
Since its release in May, I have seen this Billboard number one record resonate deeply with the culture, but I never expected it to go 5 for 5 on Grammy night. It makes sense that the diss record heard around the world would be the one to achieve such recognition. It was truly amazing to see Lamar and his peers take the stage to accept each award and dedicate them to various Los Angeles legends.
