Grammys 2025: Beyoncé Grooves as Kendrick Lamar Wins Record of the Year

The 2025 Grammy Awards were a night full of excitement, surprises, and powerful moments.

Among the many highlights, one particularly captivating scene involved Beyoncé’s reaction to Kendrick Lamar’s triumph in winning the coveted Record of the Year award. Lamar’s win was especially noteworthy as it was for his track Not Like Us, a controversial diss song aimed squarely at rapper Drake. While the audience cheered for the artist’s win, it was Beyoncé’s infectious energy that caught the attention of viewers at home.

As Kendrick Lamar took the stage to accept his award for Not Like Us, Beyoncé was seen grooving in her seat, clapping her hands, and flashing a bright smile. The If I Were a Boy singer’s joy was clear as she cheered on Lamar, even shaking her head to the beat of the song and letting her long hair flow as she danced along. Beyoncé, who has always had a remarkable connection with music, couldn’t help but join the celebration as Lamar delivered one of the most talked-about tracks of the year.

This moment was a sweet highlight in a night that saw both Lamar and Beyoncé dominating the Grammy stage. While Beyoncé’s energy was certainly infectious, the victory itself was significant, as Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us not only won Record of the Year but also took home multiple other awards, including Best Rap Performance, Best Rap Song, and Best Music Video. Lamar’s sweeping success at the ceremony served as a testament to the massive impact of his music.

Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us: A Controversial and Winning Track

Released during an ongoing and public feud with Drake, Not Like Us quickly became a cultural talking point. The track’s sharp and direct criticism of Drake made it one of the most buzzworthy releases of 2024, sparking debate across social media and among music critics alike. The intensity of the lyrics paired with Lamar’s unmatched flow made Not Like Us a standout track, not only for its controversial content but also for its impressive artistry and production.

The song’s bold lyrics dissecting the complexities of the rap game and personal rivalries sparked intense conversations about the ever-evolving relationship between the two rappers. While some praised Lamar for his fearless commentary, others found themselves caught up in the drama between two of hip-hop’s most influential artists. Regardless, Lamar’s track struck a chord with listeners and critics, making it one of the most defining tracks of the year. The song’s success was not only a testament to Lamar’s artistry but also to his ability to create music that transcended just being a diss track—it became an anthem of boldness and unapologetic expression.

The fact that Not Like Us topped the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart for 21 consecutive weeks, while also debuting at number one on the Hot 100, demonstrated just how resonant the song was with both fans and critics. Kendrick Lamar’s ability to capture the essence of the culture and combine it with captivating music made the track one of the most memorable releases of the year.

Lamar’s Acceptance Speech: A Tribute to Los Angeles

As Kendrick Lamar took the stage to accept his Grammy for Record of the Year, he didn’t just focus on his own success but also paid tribute to the city that has shaped him as an artist: Los Angeles. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Lamar dedicated the award to the city, saying, “This is my neck of the woods that’s held me down since I was a young pup. Since I was in the studio scrapping to write the best raps and all that, the records were like these.”

For Lamar, Los Angeles has been more than just a place—it has been a source of inspiration and a platform for his rise to stardom. His connection to the city runs deep, and in this moment, he shared his appreciation for the place that has shaped his artistry and provided him with the environment in which his music could thrive. The emotional weight of his words added an extra layer of depth to his victory and further endeared him to fans and listeners who have supported him throughout his career.

Beyoncé’s Triumph and the Awards Sweep

While Kendrick Lamar certainly had a night to remember, Beyoncé’s achievements at the 2025 Grammys were nothing short of historic. The Crazy in Love singer’s work on her album Cowboy Carter earned her the prestigious Album of the Year award, solidifying her place in music history. The victory was especially groundbreaking as Beyoncé became the first Black woman in over 50 years to win the Grammy for Best Country Album, a remarkable achievement that highlighted her versatility as an artist.

In addition to her Album of the Year win, Beyoncé also received recognition for her powerful voice and dynamic songwriting throughout the night. The success of Cowboy Carter, with its mix of genres and hard-hitting tracks, has earned her widespread acclaim, cementing her as one of the most innovative and influential artists of this generation.

Other Notable Wins at the 2025 Grammys

Beyond the fierce competition between Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé, the 2025 Grammy Awards showcased other standout moments and performances that captured the attention of viewers. Sabrina Carpenter, the rising pop star, took home the Best Pop Vocal Album award, further affirming her place as one of the most promising voices in modern pop music.

Other highlights included major wins in pop and rap categories, with Lamar dominating rap categories and Beyoncé continuing to break barriers. With the night full of emotion and high-profile moments, the 2025 Grammy Awards proved to be a memorable night for all involved.

Grammys 2025: A Night of Rivalry, Respect, and Celebration

The 2025 Grammy Awards were a celebration of music’s most exceptional talents, from the best of pop to the most revered in hip-hop. Beyoncé’s joy as she cheered for Kendrick Lamar during his win for Not Like Us was a symbol of the mutual respect between two of the biggest stars in music. While Lamar’s track was controversial, it also sparked important discussions about art, rivalry, and expression in the modern rap scene. Beyoncé’s continued dominance in the music industry was another highlight, as she earned her own place in history with her wins.

The Grammy Awards, as always, offered a platform for artists to share their passion, dedication, and creativity. Whether it was Beyoncé’s historic triumph or Kendrick Lamar’s fearless diss track becoming one of the night’s biggest winners, the 2025 Grammys proved once again that music has the power to bring people together, spark debate, and create lasting memories. As the night ended, fans were left with powerful performances, inspiring speeches, and a renewed sense of admiration for the artists shaping the future of music.