Best Musical Highlights From the Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Gala: Olivia Dean, Jelly Roll, Laufey & More

The Most Unforgettable Moments From Clive Davis’ 2026 Pre-Grammy Gala

“This evening carries a profound significance,” Clive Davis remarked to the glittering assembly gathered at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. The ballroom was a mosaic of talent, featuring everyone from foundational legends to the industry’s newest vanguards, alongside iconic actors and cultural dignitaries. “We are here to honor the very essence of music and the spirit of artistry,” Davis noted.

The legendary host was introduced by a sequence of high-profile confidants. Harvey Mason Jr. set the stage for Gayle King, who in turn presented a digital address from Barack Obama. In his video tribute, the former President offered Clive and the guests a simple directive: “Enjoy a magnificent evening—and, above all, let the music lead the way.”

The 2026 Pre-Grammy Gala, held on Saturday, Jan. 31, served as a platform to honor Republic Records co-founders Monte and Avery Lipman with the Grammy Salute to Industry Icons award. Their induction featured a fast-paced relay of tributes, starting with a comedic video from Jimmy Fallon and moving into a poignant speech by Lucian Grainge. Reflecting on the brothers’ meteoric rise, Grainge observed, “Many witness the triumph without acknowledging the trek. Success at this magnitude is never a matter of chance.” The tribute culminated with Stevie Wonder taking the stage to affirm that for the Lipmans, “this is merely the prologue.”

While the Lipman brothers accepted their accolades with individual speeches, a central motif emerged: the power of family, both ancestral and professional. This sentiment mirrored Davis’ own mission—to curate an annual gathering of his “chosen family” to celebrate the brightest lights in the musical firmament.

The room was filled with perennial fixtures like Joni Mitchell and Nancy Pelosi, but the guest list also boasted unexpected names, including Bernie Taupin, Max Martin, Martha Stewart, Frankie Valli, and filmmaker Cameron Crowe. Other notable attendees included Dave Grohl accompanied by his daughter Violet, Lana Del Rey, Karol G, Paris Hilton, Noah Kahan, and Demi Lovato.

The night featured ten high-octane performances, ranging from the collaborative energy of MGK and Jelly Roll to the soul-stirring vocals of Jennifer Hudson. However, these five standout moments defined the evening:

1. A High-Octane Homage to the Prince of Darkness

The festivities ignited with a roaring tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away in July 2025. MGK took the lead with a high-energy rendition of “I Don’t Wanna Stop” before introducing Jelly Roll. The latter delivered a gut-wrenching, soulful version of “Mama I’m Coming Home.”

“Rest in power to the Prince of Darkness… an incredible husband, father, and musician,” Jelly Roll proclaimed, gesturing toward Sharon and Jack Osbourne. Following the set, Sharon met Jelly Roll on the floor for a long, emotional embrace that underscored the weight of the tribute.

2. Alex Warren’s Visceral Balladry

Best New Artist contender Alex Warren followed the rock tribute with a performance of his chart-topping hit, “Ordinary.” As Warren hit the song’s soaring emotional peaks, the room responded in kind. Chlöe Bailey was seen vibing alongside her sister Halle, while fellow artists Shaboozey, Jelly Roll, and Bunnie Xo cheered enthusiastically from their front-row seats, turning the performance into a shared celebration of Warren’s breakout year.

3. Darren Criss Reimagines a Songwriting Icon

Darren Criss took on the challenge of honoring Bernie Taupin while the legendary lyricist watched from the audience. Criss delivered an electric version of the Elton John staple “Bennie And The Jets,” pausing to thank Taupin for his lifelong inspiration. To elevate the moment, Criss invited Laufey to the stage. The duo transformed “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” into a sophisticated, jazz-infused duet that breathed fresh life into the classic pop track.

4. Olivia Dean Captivates the New Guard

As Olivia Dean took the stage, the Best New Artist nominee proved exactly why she is one of the most talked-about names in music. During her performance of “Man I Need,” the front row—anchored by Noah Kahan and Sombr—was visibly entranced. Sombr took his role as “hype man” literally, bowing to Dean in a gesture of musical reverence and encouraging the rest of the ballroom to join in the standing ovation.

5. Art Garfunkel’s Poignant Masterclass

Ever the master of the “grand finale,” Clive Davis reserved the closing slot for a tribute to Art Garfunkel. The segment began with country powerhouse Dan + Shay delivering impeccable harmonies on “Mrs. Robinson” and “All I Know.”

When Garfunkel finally took the stage, he expressed his deep gratitude to Davis for anchoring his legendary career. After reciting a moving poem dedicated to his father, he closed the night with a stripped-back, vulnerable performance of “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” In a quintessential touch of legendary cool, Garfunkel performed the masterpiece while wearing a tuxedo paired with a maroon Philadelphia Phillies cap.

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