At the 67th Annual Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony on February 2, 2025, renowned Beninese singer Angélique Kidjo delivered a poignant rendition of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” paying tribute to the victims of the recent Southern California wildfires.

The performance, set against visuals of the devastating fires, was a collaborative effort featuring nominees Wayne Brady, Scott Hoying, Deborah Cox, and Taj Mahal.

The wildfires, which ravaged the Los Angeles area throughout January 2025, resulted in at least 29 fatalities and the destruction of over 18,000 structures.

The Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades and the Eaton Fire in Altadena were among the most destructive, exacerbated by severe Santa Ana winds and drought conditions.

Kidjo, adorned in a black glittering suit, light brown silk shirt, and an elegantly wrapped Ankara scarf, led the ensemble in a performance that began with somber tones, accompanied by images of flames and firefighters.

The presentation evolved into a gospel-inspired tribute, honoring those affected by the fires. This heartfelt opening set a reflective tone for the evening, emphasizing support for California wildfire relief.

The 2025 Grammy Awards, hosted by Trevor Noah, is the intersection of music and community resilience.

Unforgettable moments included Chappell Roan’s Best New Artist win, where she advocated for healthcare and profit-sharing for emerging musicians, and performances by Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga, who delivered a heartfelt cover of “California Dreamin’.”

The event reveals the importance of solidarity in the face of natural disasters, with artists using their platforms to raise awareness and support for affected communities.