The Pre-Grammy Gala hosted by music mogul Clive Davis has long been regarded as one of the most exclusive gatherings preceding the annual Grammy Awards. What began as a celebration of Barry Manilow's 'Mandy' from the Arista Records forty years ago has grown into a hallmark event, drawing music legends and newcomers alike to celebrate the industry’s luminaries.
The 2025 gala, held at the iconic Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California, paid homage to its storied past while addressing the present challenges faced by the community. Barry Manilow returned to the stage, performing his classic hit with a nod to his own history, humorously recalling past appearances at the event alongside Clive Davis.
This year, amidst the revelry, the gala emphasized the importance of community resilience. In response to the devastating Los Angeles wildfires that left thousands displaced and over 14,000 structures in ruins, the event pivoted towards philanthropy. Attendees were encouraged to donate through QR codes placed on each table, directly benefitting the Recording Academy's MusiCares charity. With this impactful gesture, nearly $5 million has been raised for wildfire relief, as announced by Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr.
The night was a heartfelt convergence of music and charity. First responders were honored not only for their bravery during the fires but also for their dedication to aiding the community. The change in tone from previous years was well-received, with artists like Post Malone using their performances to underscore the importance of helping those most affected by the crisis. Malone’s stripped-down rendition of 'Sunflower' was both a musical highlight and a call to action.
Another notable aspect of the evening was the tribute to Quincy Jones. Renowned for his unrivaled contributions to music production, Quincy was the inspiration behind powerhouse performances by artists spanning decades and musical styles. Michael Bublé's jazzy 'Fly Me to the Moon', Jennifer Hudson’s soulful take on Aretha Franklin’s classic, and Yolanda Adams’ heart-stirring 'I Will Always Love You' poignantly honored the late icon.
Alongside tributes, the gala spotlighted emerging artists, demonstrating the event’s commitment to nurturing new voices in the industry. Performances from up-and-coming stars like Samara Joy, Doechii, and Benson Boone showcased not only talent but also the evolving soundscape of modern music.
Jody Gerson, the distinguished Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group, received the 2025 Grammy Salute to Industry Icons Award, recognizing her trailblazing role as a female leader in a predominantly male industry. Gerson’s acceptance speech highlighted the unifying power of music in challenging times and her dedication to promoting diverse voices and talents in the industry.
The night’s guest list featured an array of A-list attendees, underscoring the gala’s one-of-a-kind status. Celebrities from various fields, including Jennifer Lopez, Gayle King, and Paris Hilton, mingled with music royalty, all drawn by the event's unique blend of nostalgia and innovation.
Emceed by comedian Jimmy Kimmel, who humorously dubbed the event 'Clive Davis' bar mitzvah,' the evening was not just about celebrating musical achievements. It was a poignant reminder of the music industry’s potential to enact significant social change in times of need.
Ultimately, the 50th Pre-Grammy Gala served as a testament to the music community’s camaraderie and its capacity to rise in support of one another, embodying the spirit of unity and reflection amidst ongoing challenges.
