Bad Bunny wins album of the year; Kendrick Lamar becomes most honored rapper at 2026 Grammys

At the 68th annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 2, 2026, Bad Bunny won album of the year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos, the first Spanish‑language album to take that honor, and Kendrick Lamar won record of the year for “Luther,” his duet with SZA, making him the most honored rapper ever, The New York Times critics reported.

The Times critics highlighted a range of performances and new‑artist moments: Addison Rae and post‑K‑pop sextet Katseye drew praise in the best new artist showcase, Justin Bieber delivered a stripped, shirtless rendition of “Yukon,” Sabrina Carpenter was praised for live vocals during an airport‑themed “Manchild,” and British singer‑songwriter Lola Young emerged as a breakout star, winning best pop solo performance for “Messy.” Several tributes and awards for veteran artists stood out.

Joni Mitchell received the award for best historical album for Joni Mitchell Archives — Volume 4, and recounted career anecdotes including a rejected horse’s‑rear album cover that became a billboard, Jon Pareles wrote. A memorial segment led by Ms. Lauryn Hill honoring D’Angelo and Roberta Flack was described as uneven, though Bilal’s rendition of D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel?)” was singled out as riveting, and Pareles noted that Sly Stone received what he called a brief, almost afterthought mention in the In Memoriam.

Speeches and eligibility quirks drew attention.

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