The 2026 Grammy Awards became a platform for political statements, as several prominent musicians used their stage time to voice opposition to policies associated with former US President Donald Trump. The event, held on 1st February, combined celebration of musical achievements with outspoken commentary on social and political issues.
Bad Bunny, who took home multiple awards, made headlines with a pointed message during his acceptance speech. He told the audience, “Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say ICE out,” calling attention to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, an agency heavily criticised during Trump’s administration. His speech emphasised the dignity of immigrants and the need for fair treatment.
Wildflower
Billie Eilish, who won Song of the Year for her track “Wildflower”, delivered a performance, musical and political. The song, from her 2024 album Hit Me Hard and Soft, blends haunting melodies with lyrics reflecting resilience and self‑expression. Eilish used her acceptance speech to speak about immigrant rights, linking the personal empowerment themes of “Wildflower” with broader social issues and reinforcing her stance against Trump-era policies.
She stated, “No one is illegal on stolen land,” a remark interpreted as a critique of Trump-era immigration policies. Alongside Eilish and Bad Bunny, several other musicians including Kehlani, Carole King and Joni Mitchell wore pins with the slogan “ICE OUT” as a symbolic protest on the red carpet.
Additional gestures and statements included Olivia Dean, a rising British singer-songwriter, who truly stole the show. Inside the packed Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, Dean was crowned Best New Artist, claiming her first Grammy, in a moment that felt -again- personal and political as her win was a celebration of her journey and heritage.
According to USA TODAY, Dean’s acceptance speech resonated far beyond the walls of the arena. "I’m up here as the granddaughter of an immigrant. I’m a product of bravery, and I think those people deserve to be celebrated," she declared, her voice catching with emotion. "We’re nothing without each other, thank you so much."
J Balvin incorporated visual references to “ICE OUT” on screens during his performance, reinforcing the protest against immigration enforcement. Dua Lipa wore a pin reading “Refugees Welcome” while presenting an award, and Brandi Carlile highlighted equality and freedom of expression in her speech, which commentators connected to broader critiques of Trump-era rhetoric.
Trevor Noah, the host of the Grammys, added to the commentary with jokes referencing Trump throughout the broadcast. He quipped that the coveted Song of the Year award was something every artist wants “almost as much as Trump wants Greenland,” and made a tongue-in-cheek remark involving Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. While these jokes were met with laughter in the arena, they drew swift attention online.
artist wants, almost as much as Trump wants Greenland,” Noah said
and the US President said he will launch legal action against the comedian.
Trump Hits a Sour Note
Following the ceremony, Donald Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social to criticise both the Grammys and Trevor Noah. He described the broadcast as “virtually unwatchable” and accused the show of airing “garbage” on television. He singled out Noah for defamation over the Epstein joke, calling him a “total loser” and warning that legal action would be taken.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump wrote: "Noah said, INCORRECTLY about me, that Donald Trump and Bill Clinton spent time on Epstein Island. WRONG!!!