Canadian singer and songwriter The Weeknd mended his fractious relationship with the Grammy Awards with a surprise performance of his new single, 'Cry For Me and Timeless' with Playboi Carti. The Weeknd has been openly critical of the Grammys organisation, after being overlooked in the ceremony in 2021. He had criticised the academy on X, formerly Twitter: The Grammys remain corrupt. 

The decision, according to Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr in his introduction speech, is a direct reflection of the changes the academy has made to diversify its voting body. 
"I remember waking up to the headlines that The Weeknd called out the Academy for a lack of transparency in our awards," Mason said. "But you know what, criticism is OK. I heard him. I felt his conviction."

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Mason, according to PTI, added: "What we all want is an organization dedicated to the well-being of all music makers and one that reflects the entire music community, for now and for future generations."
The first televised award of the 2025 Grammy Awards went to Doechii for best rap album for Alligator Bites Never Heal." The tears were immediate. This category was introduced in 1989. Two women have won, Lauryn Hill " she said, correcting herself. "Three women have won. Lauryn Hill, Cardi B and Doechii.

Doechii's heartfelt speech came after the show opened with several references to the Los Angeles-area wildfires that have devastated the city but put the spotlight on the city's resiliency. The Grammys kicked off Sunday at the Crypto.com Arena in high spirits, drawing attention to first responders and the resilience of the music community.

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