Shakira sparkled, and Doechii stunned but they were not all as the 2025 Grammys delivered a night of unforgettable moments. From show-stopping vocals that sent chills down spines to performances that did not quite hit the mark, the energy in the room crackled with excitement.  But who truly owned the stage, and who fumbled their chance at Grammy glory? Here diving deep into the performances that defined the night, ranking every single one to find the ultimate best. 

Get ready for a rollercoaster of reviews, because this list is not holding back!  Dissect the highs and lows, the triumphs and the wrecks, of the 2025 Grammy performances.

The Grammys started off with a bang, or perhaps a gentle breeze, courtesy of the Goldsmith brothers. These guys clearly know how to pull in some favors because their opening act boasted a constellation of stars: John Legend, Brad Paisley, Sheryl Crow, Brittany Howard, and St. Vincent. Talk about a supergroup! They all united to do Randy Newman's 'I Love L.A.'. Now, that was where things got a little interesting. 

The song itself was somewhat of a musical paradox. It sounds so cheerful and celebratory, but the lyrics are pretty sarcastic and poking fun at some of the less glamorous aspects of Los Angeles. So, while the performance was undeniably smooth and well-executed, the choice of the song left some viewers a tad puzzled.  

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Chris Martin's performance of 'All My Love' during the "in memoriam" segment was an opportunity for quiet contemplation. Here is the picture for you: a lone figure at a grand piano, spotlight shining down as a hush falls over the crowd. Martin's vocals, always strong, filled the room with a gentle power giving the classic Coldplay vibe, all sincere and heartfelt. 

However, it lacked the extra spark that would have truly made it unforgettable. Sources like Billboard and Rolling Stone noted the simplicity of the performance, some suggesting it felt a little overshadowed by the more visually dynamic moments of the night. 

The Weeknd's return to the Grammy stage after his past boycott was highly anticipated, but his performance landed below expectations on many viewers' lists. He performed new material from the album 'Hurry Up Tomorrow', set behind a smoky light show and masked dancers crowding the stage. The lighting shrouded the scene, creating a theatrical effect at times. However, the singer himself seemed to get a bit lost in the spectacle.  

He remained positioned at the back of the stage, obscured by a hood and sunglasses, while the dancers took center stage. While the visual elements were undoubtedly impressive, many felt that The Weeknd's presence felt somewhat distant. Given his history with the Grammys, many hoped for a more impactful and direct performance. The performance, while visually interesting, did not quite deliver the emotional punch that many anticipated. 

Honoring a legend like Quincy Jones is a tall order, and this star-studded tribute tried to capture his vast musical legacy. While the intention was pure, the execution felt a bit uneven. Lainey Wilson's version of 'Let the Good Times Roll', while energetic, seemed to lack the spark needed to really light up the stage. Even Stevie Wonder, a musical giant in his own right, seemed subdued at times during 'We Are the World'.

Thankfully, it was Cynthia Erivo who stepped in to rescue the performance with a breathtaking 'Fly Me to the Moon'. Janelle Monáe then injected some much-needed energy with a dynamic take on Michael Jackson's 'Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough', complete with a moonwalk. Ultimately, the tribute felt like a mixed bag.  While some moments soared, others fell flat, making it land in the lower half of this list.

Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas brought a touch of quiet intimacy to the Grammy stage with 'Birds of a Feather', a track from her album 'Hit Me Hard and Soft'  While the performance showcased their undeniable musical connection, it landed lower on this list for a few reasons. Fresh off a global tour, Eilish seemed to dial back her vocal power and sang relatively quietly during the final chorus.  

While that was noted as subtle and pleasing to some, it did not match the raw emotion often present in her live shows. The soundtrack, a view of the LA foothills and canyons where the siblings grew up, served as a great personal touch. The performance was nostalgic, but visually, it did not quite capture the dynamism of other performances that night.

Shakira, fresh off her Latin pop album win, reminded everyone why she is a global icon.  She graced the Grammy stage for the first time in nearly two decades, and it was pure gold – literally. She came out dressed head-to-toe in shimmering gold and opened with a mesmerizing solo performance of 'Ojos Asi', showcasing her signature belly dancing moves that have not lost an ounce of their magic. 

The crowd erupted as she moved into 'Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53', a electric performance that seemed to set off the stage. While some might have placed her even higher on the list, her return to the Grammy stage was a win in itself!

Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga, two musical powerhouses, joined forces for a surprising twist on The Mamas & the Papas' sunny 'California Dreamin''.  Forget the breezy vibes, this rendition went full gothic-glam. Gaga, fresh off premiering her dark, dance-pop 'Abracadabra' music video showed off her vocal range.  She and Mars, who previously collaborated on the soulful 'Die With a Smile' traded verses with an intensity that transformed the classic hit.  Instead of flower children swaying in the sunshine, think smoky jazz club, dim lights, and a palpable tension in the air.  

The Grammys 2025 kick started this performance by shining a spotlight on fresh talent, and this year's Best New Artist medley was a supernova of rising stars.  Teddy Swims, with his signature raspy vocals, had the crowd swaying to 'Lose Control'.  Shaboozey brought the party with a fun, energetic mix of 'Good News' and 'A Bar Song (Tipsy)'. 

While Doechii, delivered a taste of her diverse artistry, leaving everyone wanting more. Her performance of 'Oscar Winning Tears' was nothing short of breathtaking. Raye's soaring vocals and raw emotion left the audience speechless.

Charli XCX brought a healthy dose of unapologetic energy to the Grammys, turning the award show into her personal playground.  She kicked off her performance outside the arena, leading a pack of models and partygoers in a mini-rave, a vibrant procession that snaked its way through the venue's backstage areas.  This was not your typical red-carpet entrance, it was a full-blown party before the party.  Then, she hit the main stage, diving headfirst into a performance of 'Guess'. 

Crawling and writhing across the floor, surrounded by dancers in revealing outfits as undergarments rained down, Charli XCX did not just perform here, she made a statement.  The flashing strobes and heavy Auto-Tune amplified the raw, almost rebellious feel of her set. Sources like Rolling Stone and Billboard even praised her daring performance, highlighting its impact and cultural relevance.

Chappell Roan trotted onto the Grammy stage and turned it into a shimmering desert disco. A pink pony the size of a small car sprawled under all that glittering light, the self-proclaimed 'Midwest princess' was not just riding atop this grand steed: she commanded it, her voice ringing out with power and whimsical energy. 

The set design was a whimsical wonderland with cacti, tumbleweeds, and a troupe of rodeo clowns who could give any Vegas show a run for its money. Roan's Grammy appearance was not just a performance, it was a party, a celebration, and a powerful reminder that country music can be a space for everyone. 

Sabrina Carpenter stole the show at the Grammys, earning the top spot here as well.  Her 'Espresso' performance was not just a song, it was a full-blown spectacle.  She brought big band swag with modern pop with her strong vocals while also dazzling with a theatrical flair. A mini-tuxedo one moment, a sparkling blue bodysuit the next, complete with a classic tap dance routine – Carpenter was a breathtaking sight to take in. It was a playful, energetic, and utterly captivating performance that further solidified her status as a top entertainer.

What a night indeed! This year's show was a rollercoaster of musical moments, sparking debates and leaving everyone with something to talk about.  It was a blast ranking them all, and now the crowd cannot wait to see what next year brings!

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Which performance was your absolute favorite?  Which one deserved to be higher (or lower)?  Let us know in the comments below!