16 Unforgettable Grammy Performances

The Grammys are known for their incredible performances, and over the years, there have been some truly unforgettable moments. From emotional ballads to high-energy shows, these 16 Grammy performances have left a lasting impact on the audience. Whether you watched them live or caught the highlights later, these performances are some of the best in music history.

1. Michael Jackson – “Man in the Mirror” (1988)

Michael Jackson’s 1988 Grammy performance of “Man in the Mirror” is legendary for its emotional intensity and powerful message. The King of Pop delivered a riveting rendition, complete with a gospel choir, that left the audience in awe and further cemented his status as a musical icon.

2. Whitney Houston – “I Will Always Love You” (1994)

Whitney Houston’s performance of “I Will Always Love You” at the 1994 Grammys showcased her incredible vocal range and emotional depth. Her flawless delivery of the iconic ballad remains one of the most memorable moments in Grammy history.

3. Prince and Beyoncé – Medley (2004)

Prince and Beyoncé teamed up for an unforgettable medley at the 2004 Grammys, blending hits like “Purple Rain,” “Baby I’m a Star,” and “Crazy in Love.” Their electrifying chemistry and powerful stage presence made it a standout performance that year.

4. Pink – “Glitter in the Air” (2010)

Pink’s aerial performance of “Glitter in the Air” in 2010 was a breathtaking display of artistry and athleticism. Suspended high above the audience, she combined acrobatics with flawless vocals, leaving viewers stunned and solidifying her reputation as a dynamic live performer.

5. Amy Winehouse – “You Know I’m No Good” and “Rehab” (2008)

Broadcast live from London, Amy Winehouse’s 2008 Grammy performance of “You Know I’m No Good” and “Rehab” was a poignant reminder of her immense talent. Her raw, soulful voice captivated the audience, and her performance was a triumphant moment in her career.

6. Lady Gaga – “Born This Way” (2011)

Lady Gaga’s performance of “Born This Way” in 2011 was a theatrical spectacle that highlighted her bold creativity and commitment to self-expression. Emerging from a giant egg, Gaga’s performance was both visually and musically striking, embodying the song’s message of individuality and acceptance.

7. Adele – “Rolling in the Deep” (2012)

Adele’s powerful rendition of “Rolling in the Deep” at the 2012 Grammys marked her triumphant return to the stage after vocal surgery. Her emotional performance received a standing ovation and reaffirmed her status as one of the greatest vocalists of her generation.

8. Beyoncé – “If I Were a Boy” and “You Oughta Know” (2010)

Beyoncé’s 2010 Grammy performance was a showstopper, as she delivered a powerful mashup of her hit “If I Were a Boy” and Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know.” Her fierce vocals and commanding stage presence left a lasting impression.

9. Aretha Franklin – Nessun Dorma (1998)

When Luciano Pavarotti fell ill at the last minute, Aretha Franklin stepped in to perform “Nessun Dorma” at the 1998 Grammys. Her stunning operatic performance showcased her incredible versatility and earned her a place in Grammy legend.

10. Kendrick Lamar – Medley (2016)

Kendrick Lamar’s 2016 Grammy performance was a powerful and politically charged medley of “The Blacker the Berry” and “Alright.” With striking visuals and a compelling narrative, Lamar’s performance addressed themes of racial inequality and social justice, earning widespread acclaim.

11. Bruno Mars and Cardi B – “Finesse (Remix)” (2018)

Bruno Mars and Cardi B brought the house down with their vibrant, 90s-inspired performance of “Finesse (Remix)” at the 2018 Grammys. Their infectious energy, colorful outfits, and nostalgic homage to 90s hip-hop made it an instant classic.

12. Eminem and Elton John – “Stan” (2001)

Eminem and Elton John’s duet of “Stan” at the 2001 Grammys was a surprising and powerful collaboration. Addressing the controversy surrounding Eminem’s lyrics, the performance showcased the unlikely pairing’s mutual respect and musical synergy.

13. Beyoncé and Jay-Z – “Drunk in Love” (2014)

Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s steamy performance of “Drunk in Love” in 2014 was a highlight of that year’s Grammys. Their undeniable chemistry and dynamic stage presence captivated the audience, solidifying their status as music’s ultimate power couple.

14. Jennifer Hudson – “I Will Always Love You” (2012)

Jennifer Hudson’s tribute to Whitney Houston in 2012, performing “I Will Always Love You,” was a deeply emotional and heartfelt moment. Hudson’s powerful vocals paid homage to Houston’s legacy, bringing many in the audience to tears.

15. Madonna, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Missy Elliott – “Like a Virgin”/“Hollywood” Medley (2003)

The 2003 Grammys featured an iconic performance by Madonna, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Missy Elliott. Starting with a provocative rendition of “Like a Virgin” and transitioning into “Hollywood,” the performance ended with Madonna sharing a memorable kiss with Britney and Christina, sparking widespread media attention.

16. Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper – “Shallow” (2019)

Image Credit: Neal Preston/Warner Bros., via Associated Press

Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s intimate performance of “Shallow” at the 2019 Grammys brought the emotional power of their A Star Is Born duet to the live stage. Their palpable chemistry and heartfelt delivery made it a standout moment of the evening.

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16 Unforgettable Grammy Performances

1. Michael Jackson – “Man in the Mirror” (1988)