The morning of Monday, February 2, 2026, is all about the replay button. The 68th Grammys delivered a visual feast that ranged from lo-fi vulnerability to stadium-shaking rock. Here are the five sets that defined the night.
1. Lady Gaga: The “Abracadabra” Ritual
Lady Gaga didn’t just perform a song; she cast a spell. Clad in a red and black feathered Alexander McQueen ensemble and a wicker headpiece by Philip Treacy that resembled a cage, Gaga delivered a rock-infused version of “Abracadabra.”
The Vibe: Backed by Josh Freese (Nine Inch Nails) on drums and Andrew Watt on guitar, Gaga wielded a long black cane and played a Mini Moog synthesizer.
The Climax: The set ended in a chaotic flurry of operatic wails and a gunshot-like sound effect that left the audience in stunned silence before erupting into a standing ovation.
2. Justin Bieber: The Literal “Stripped-Down” Set
In a move that immediately became the most memed moment of 2026, Justin Bieber returned to the Grammy stage after four years—wearing only socks and silk boxer shorts.
The Tech: Strapping a 1988 Yamaha electric guitar to his back and using an Akai MPC Live III, Bieber performed “Yukon” entirely solo.
The Impact: It was a vulnerable, bedroom-pop-style performance that proved his musicality. As wife Hailey Bieber watched from the front row, Justin reminded the world that beneath the superstardom, he’s still a kid with a loop pedal and a story.
3. The Ozzy Osbourne Tribute: A Metal Masterclass
For the “In Memoriam” and Lifetime Achievement segments, the Grammys turned the volume to eleven. Post Malone, Slash, Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), and Andrew Watt joined forces for a blistering cover of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs.”
The Emotion: The camera frequently panned to Sharon, Jack, and Kelly Osbourne, who were visibly moved to tears as the supergroup honored the Prince of Darkness.
4. Olivia Dean: The Best New Artist “Man I Need”
Fresh off her big win, Olivia Dean proved exactly why she earned that trophy. Her performance of “Man I Need” was a masterclass in British soul.
The Moment: Walking the stage with effortless grace, she transitioned from the loading dock to the main stage, highlighting her journey from an indie darling to a global powerhouse. Her “Product of Bravery” theme resonated through every note.
5. Tyler, the Creator: “Don’t Tap the Glass”
Tyler, the Creator delivered what many called a “theater piece” rather than a concert. Performing a medley of “Thought I Was Dead” and “Sugar on My Tongue,” he was joined by Academy Award-winner Regina King.
The Skit: King acted as a guiding figure, telling Tyler to “never look back in that rearview mirror,” as he navigated a stage filled with literal “potholes” and smoke, creating a surrealist commentary on fame.
