10 Of The Greatest Performances In The History Of The Grammys

Being one of the music industry’s most esteemed award shows, the Grammy Awards have held a prominent spot on the annual calendar since their establishment in 1959. Each ceremony features music’s most iconic figures gracing the stage with awe-inspiring performances, rendering the Grammys indispensable for music enthusiasts worldwide. 

Naturally, these exceptional Grammy performances have achieved legendary status due to their musical prowess and captivating stage presence, enabling artists to craft enduring memories and, in certain instances, etch their names in history.

Injecting rock energy into such live performances gave us some of the most iconic the viewing public has ever experienced.

From legendary collaborations to exceptional solo acts, the Grammys consistently offer a plethora of remarkable shows. Here is our compilation of the greatest Grammy rock performances of all time.

1. Chuck Berry With Stevie Ray Vaughan and George Thorogood (1984)

This performance brought together three generations of guitar legends. Chuck Berry, one of the pioneers of rock ‘n’ roll, joined forces with the emerging talents of Stevie Ray Vaughan and George Thorogood in an electrifying number. 

It was a moment that bridged the gap between the classic era of rock and the modern blues-rock movement of the time. The sheer energy and synergy among these guitarists on stage were palpable, and it represented a passing of the torch from one generation to the next. 

The blend of Berry’s classic hits and the raw guitar skills of Vaughan and Thorogood made it a performance that is still celebrated by rock music enthusiasts to this day.

2. Prince and the Revolution (1985)

Prince’s 1985 Grammy performance is unforgettable for several reasons. The rockstar’s sheer virtuosity as a performer takes center stage. His electrifying stage presence, exceptional vocal range, and mastery of multiple instruments, including guitar and keyboards, showcased his immense talent and versatility. 

Furthermore, his “Baby I’m a Star” rendition is a celebration of Prince’s spontaneity and unrestrained joy. Prince’s ability to engage the crowd and interact with his bandmates in real time demonstrates his genuine passion for music and live performance. 

The dynamic interplay between Prince and his fellow musicians, along with his magnetic charisma, created an infectious atmosphere that captivated the audience.

3. Metallica (1989)

Metallica’s 1989 Grammy performance was a defining moment for heavy metal. The band’s intense rendition of “One” showcased their mastery of the genre and their “vengeance” for the awards show’s snubbing of anything hard rock. 

What made this performance iconic was the use of pyrotechnics and a visually striking stage setup that matched the intensity of the music. It was a powerful and explosive performance that left a lasting impact on the audience and solidified Metallica’s reputation as one of the most influential metal bands of all time. 

The energy and aggression they brought to the stage set a new standard for live metal performances and contributed to the genre’s mainstream acceptance.

4. Guns N’ Roses (1989)

In 1989, Guns N’ Roses delivered a memorable Grammy performance with their acoustic rendition of “Patience”, in a contemplative departure from the band’s typical hard rock image.

And, of course, they have to: Metallica already stole the show with their power. They need something else to grab a share of the spotlight. Instead of loud guitars and heavy drums, GnR presented a softer, more intimate side of their music. 

This unexpected change in style showcased the band’s versatility and musical depth, challenging the stereotypes associated with them. Axl Rose’s charismatic stage presence and the audience’s enthusiastic response added to the impact of the performance.

5. Eric Clapton (1993)

The 1993 Grammy performance of blues deity Eric Clapton was deeply emotional and unforgettable. He performed “Tears in Heaven”, a song he wrote as a tribute to his late son, who tragically passed away.

Clapton’s raw and heartfelt performance touched the hearts of viewers around the world. The vulnerability and pain he conveyed through his music resonated with many, making it an incredibly poignant and iconic moment. 

This performance not only showcased Clapton’s extraordinary guitar skills but also his ability to channel his personal grief into his art, creating a lasting impact on the audience.

6. Bob Dylan (1998)

Bob Dylan’s 1998 Grammy performance was iconic for its simplicity and haunting presentation. He performed “Love Sick” in a stripped-down arrangement, accompanied by minimal instrumentation. 

However, what made it more memorable was the appearance of an unexpected guest on stage – a partially unclothed dancer with the phrase “Soy Bomb” painted on their chest. Remarkably, Dylan remained composed, hardly showing a hint of amusement.

Dylan’s gravelly voice and the song’s melancholic lyrics created an intimate and mesmerizing atmosphere. This performance marked a resurgence in Dylan’s career and reaffirmed his status as one of the greatest songwriters of all time.

7. Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Dave Grohl, Little Steven, (2003)

The 2003 Grammy performance featured an extraordinary lineup of legendary artists, including Bruce Springsteen and Elvis Costello, paying tribute to the late Joe Strummer of The Clash,  who died due to a heart attack a few weeks prior.

This performance was iconic for its heartfelt homage to a punk rock icon. Much like numerous other exceptional artists, Joe received a grand homage at the Grammys, a recognition he may not have experienced during his lifetime.

The energy and passion exuded by the musicians during their rendition of The Clash’s “London Calling” was electric. It served as a reminder of the lasting impact Strummer and The Clash had on the music world, while also showcasing the camaraderie among musicians from different genres.

8. Bono, Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, Brian Wilson and more (2005)

This Grammy performance was iconic for its unity and message of hope. It came as a tribute to the victims of the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami featuring the collaboration of artists like Bono, Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, and Brian Wilson, among others.

Their rendition of The Beatles’ “Across The Universe”, symbolizing the power of music to bring people together for a noble cause, was not only musically captivating but also emotionally resonant.

The performance transcended language barriers, spreading a message of healing and solidarity that made it unforgettable. Seeing Tim McGraw, Scott Weiland, Slash, Steven Tyler, Billie Joe Armstrong, and more perform on stage for a cause is uplifting.

9. The Police (2007)

The Police’s 2007 Grammy performance marked their reunion after decades of being apart. Iconic for its nostalgia and anticipation, it brought Sting, Andy Summers, and Stewart Copeland back together on stage. 

Their performance of hits like “Roxanne” and “Message in a Bottle” was a testament to their enduring talent and the timeless quality of their music. 

It was a moment that thrilled longtime fans and introduced a new generation to their iconic sound, especially with Sting unpretentiously announcing “Ladies and gentlemen, we are the Police and we’re back!”

10. Robert Plant & Alison Krauss (2009)

It was a magical 2009 Grammys for the unlikely duo, former Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant and bluegrass-country star Alison Krauss: they completely dominated the Awards and won in all five categories in which they were nominated

Their remarkable collaboration for “Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)” was the night’s centerpiece, and was memorable for its fusion of rock and bluegrass influences. 

It was a performance that celebrated the beauty of musical exploration and collaboration, earning them accolades for their album Raising Sand.