Bad Bunny made history at the 2026 Grammy Awards by becoming the first Latin artist to win Album of the Year in the event’s 68-year history. The achievement came on a night filled with both celebration and protest, as artists used the stage to speak out on immigration issues in the United States.
His win came for his sixth studio album, Debí Tirar Más Fotos. The Puerto Rican star beat major nominees such as Lady Gaga and Kendrick Lamar. Through the album, he blends modern music with traditional Puerto Rican sounds, while reflecting on identity, culture, and belonging.
At just 31, Bad Bunny’s victory signals a major shift in global music. More importantly, it shows how Latin music continues to gain influence on the world’s biggest platforms.
Immigration Takes Centre Stage
During his acceptance speech, Bad Bunny dedicated the award to immigrants who leave their home countries in search of better lives. He spoke about the sacrifices many migrants make to support their families and follow their dreams.
As Harry Styles announced his name, the artist appeared shocked. After pausing to gather himself, he walked to the stage and addressed the crowd with visible emotion.
Earlier in the evening, he had already taken a firm stance. After winning Best Música Urbana Album, Bad Bunny criticised Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). At the same time, he echoed growing concerns about immigration raids and unrest across parts of the country.
According to him, immigrants are not outsiders. Instead, they are people who work, contribute, and help shape American society. His remarks drew loud applause and sparked strong reactions online.
Artists Unite in Solidarity
Bad Bunny was not alone in speaking out. Throughout the night, several artists showed public support for immigrant communities.
Meanwhile, British singer Olivia Dean used her Best New Artist speech to share her family’s migration story. She described herself as the granddaughter of an immigrant and called migration an act of courage, not a crime.
In addition, Dean referenced her grandmother from the Windrush generation. She stressed that society thrives when people support one another across cultures.
Elsewhere at the ceremony, artists including Kehlani, Gloria Estefan, and Billie Eilish also voiced support. Many wore “ICE Out” badges on the red carpet, making their message visible even before the awards began.
Billie Eilish Urges Action
Later in the night, Billie Eilish addressed the tense political climate after winning Song of the Year for Wildflower. She admitted it was difficult to find the right words, but she encouraged people to keep speaking up and protesting peacefully.
According to Eilish, artists have a responsibility to use their voices when others feel unheard. Her message reflected the wider mood of the ceremony.
Notably, Wildflower marked her third Song of the Year win this decade. She previously earned the award for Bad Guy and Everything I Wanted.
Kendrick Lamar’s Record-Breaking Success
Kendrick Lamar also enjoyed a landmark night. He won Best Rap Album for GNX, bringing his Grammy total to 26. As a result, he surpassed Jay-Z as the most awarded rapper in Grammy history.
Later on, Lamar added Record of the Year for Luther, a collaboration with SZA. The track samples the late Luther Vandross, giving it added emotional weight.
During his speech, Lamar paid tribute to Vandross. He described him as one of his favourite artists and said receiving permission to use the sample deeply moved him.
A Brief Moment of Confusion
However, the Record of the Year announcement included a short and awkward moment. Music legend Cher, who had just received a lifetime achievement award, returned to the stage to present the category.
After joking about the teleprompter, she briefly misread the card. For a moment, it appeared the award had gone to Luther Vandross himself. The issue was quickly corrected.
Thankfully, Lamar handled the situation calmly and turned it into a respectful tribute.
Latin Music’s Growing Global Power
Overall, Bad Bunny’s historic win reflects a wider change in the music industry. Over the past decade, Latin music has surged in popularity and dominated streaming platforms worldwide.
By awarding Album of the Year to a Spanish-language album rooted in Puerto Rican culture, the Grammys signalled a shift toward greater inclusion.
For many fans, the moment proved that music from different cultures and languages can succeed on the world’s biggest stages.
Music Meets Protest
At the same time, the 2026 Grammys highlighted how closely music and politics are now linked. As immigration debates continue, many artists chose not to remain silent.
Through speeches, fashion, and performances, they challenged policies they believe harm vulnerable communities. In doing so, they showed that artists can be both entertainers and advocates.
A Night to Remember
In the end, the 2026 Grammy Awards will be remembered for more than just trophies. Bad Bunny’s Album of the Year win marked a milestone for Latin music.
Together with the voices of other artists, the ceremony delivered a clear message of solidarity, inclusion, and human dignity — proving once again that music can shape powerful social conversations.