Olivia Dean claimed the Best New Artist award at the 68th Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The ceremony, part of a night hosted by Trevor Noah, featured Justin Bieber's surprise intimate performance and winners across genres, alongside emotional tributes.
Justin Bieber marked a stage return after health challenges and the birth of his son Jack Blues, performing 'I Do' from his nominated album Swag (up for Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album) in boxers and socks while playing guitar; his wife watched smiling from the audience.
Sabrina Carpenter, nominated for six awards including Record of the Year for 'Manchild', took the stage for the second year running. In the Best New Artist category, Olivia Dean emerged victorious from performers including Addison Rae, Alex Warren, KATSEYE, Leon Thomas, Lola Young, SOMBR, and The Marías.
Other notable wins included Kendrick Lamar's GNX for Best Rap Album, Bad Bunny's DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS for Best Urban Music Album, and Jelly Roll's Beautifully Broken for Best Contemporary Country Album.
The In Memoriam segment paid tribute to D’Angelo, Ozzy Osbourne, and Roberta Flack, with performances by Ms. Lauryn Hill, Post Malone, Slash, Andrew Watt, Chad Smith, Duff McKagan, Lukas Nelson, and Reba McEntire. Academy executive director Harvey Mason Jr. reflected: “The In Memoriam reminds us of the breadth of genres and voices that make up our musical community, as well as those who pushed music forward.”
This edition debuted categories like Best Traditional Country Album and Best Recording Package, highlighting creative diversity amid the main ceremony following the Premiere Ceremony.
