The Grammys had their start in 1959. There are now 94 categories of music to be awarded at the Grammys, so that’s a lot of judging! The annual show is usually about three plus hours long, and features several performances of award-winning songs. It’s always an honor for an artist to be asked to play at the Grammys, so they give it their all. Here is a list of the 10 best Grammy performances since their inception.
10 Best Grammy Performances Ever
1968 – Medley with Chet Atkins, Glen Campbell, and Bobbie Gentry with Jack Jones
Three country singers and a jazz pop singer creatively constructed a medley to pay homage to the past Grammy winners of the previous 10 years. This is one of the first performances, and it was a well-thought out number. It celebrated some of the best songs and blended them together in a way a lot of people didn’t expect, but enjoyed.
1974 – “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight and the Pips
Atlanta musicians Gladys Knight and the Pips showcased their dance moves with their Motown hit. This was a great performance, and it fully captured the essence of R&B. 25 years later, that catchy song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. The talented performance definitely deserves to be on the top 10 Grammy performances of all time.
1983 – Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
The birth of the moonwalk happened right here! Michael Jackson hit it out of the park with an amazing performance of his song “Billie Jean.” He incorporated his dance routine and showed off the moonwalk, which stunned audience is at first. He received a minute-long standing ovation.
1984 – “Rockit” by Herbie Hancock
This was an extraordinary performance by composer Herbie Hancock, which measured right up to his breakthrough video. Complete with movable legs, creepy mannequins, and a record-scratching turntablelist, this was a performance that enthralled audiences and TV viewers alike.
1989 – “One” by Metallica
So there was a metal performance at the Grammys? Why yes, yes there was! In 1989 metal rockers Metallica performed their dark hit “One” at the Grammys. Although the song dealt with serious and depressing subject matter, the song itself soared in the charts, and the band’s performance helped them get mainstream attention.
1993 – “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton
There was not a dry eye in the house after Eric Clapton’s beautifully written and emotional rendition of “Tears in Heaven.” Clapton penned the song as a tribute to his son whom he had tragically lost the year before. It was one of the most moving performances at the Grammys, and he went on to win song of the year.
1994 – “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
This was a tremendous performance by talented songstress Whitney Houston. Such a beautiful song, and sung so perfectly, Houston’s performance will go down in history as one of the best Grammy performances. This absolutely gorgeous ballad was actually written by none other than Dolly Parton!
2004 – Collaboration by Prince & Beyoncé
A stand-out performance is the collaboration of several of Prince’s and Beyoncé’s songs. “Baby I’m A Star,” “Crazy in Love,” and “Purple Rain” were musically woven together to create perfection. Their energetic performance and chemistry captured both the joy of music and the fun they were having.
2008 – “You Know I’m No Good” and “Rehab” by Amy Winehouse
It is sad that Amy Winehouse was part of the “27 club.” She lived a roller coaster of a life and her music reflected that. Her soulful and sultry performance of her two hit songs in 2008 made for a memorable Grammy performance. With her vocal grit and talented backup band, viewers adored her impassioned singing.
2012 – “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele
Adele has had many hit songs, but this one was a mega hit! It was on the airwaves multiple times per day. This performance also marks Adele’s triumphant return to singing after vocal cord surgery. She executed it well and she drew much appreciation from the crowd. This winning performance is one which earns its spot in the 10 best Grammy performances.
A Few Final Thoughts
It was tough to narrow it down to just 10 best Grammy performances. Thee are so many honorable mentions to include here. Some talented performances were given by Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars Simon & Garfunkel and the late, great Aretha Franklin. No matter the type of music you like, you’ll be sure to find something you’ll enjoy when watching the talented Grammy winners and nominees perform.
