Kris Kristofferson, Toby Keith, and Other Artists Honored In Memoriam Of The 2025 Grammys

The 2025 Grammy Awards took a moment to honor the music icons and industry leaders who passed away the year before. With moving tributes and touching performances, the annual In Memoriam section celebrated the lives and legacies of legendary musicians.

Chris Martin Opens with an Emotional Tribute

Chris Martin, 47, of Coldplay opened the In Memoriam portion with a moving rendition of “All My Love.” Martin sat at the piano and was joined by a four-string orchestra. Martin’s song created a solemn yet lovely tone for the homage.

A montage of names who influenced the music industry began as Martin played, followed by a unique video devoted to Liam Payne. Other musicians and industry professionals honored were Toby Keith, Wayne Osmond, Rich Homie Quan, Fatman Scoop, Cissy Houston, Dickey Betts, Kris Kristofferson, and many more.

The performance was a sobering reminder of the music industry’s losses as well as a celebration of the incredible influence these artists had on fans and other musicians.

Honoring Quincy Jones

Earlier in the evening, the Grammys also honored the late Quincy Jones. At the age of 91, Quincy Jones passed away on November 3, 2024. Jones’s 80 Grammy nominations and 28 wins left a huge impact on the music industry for several decades.

A powerhouse lineup featuring Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, Jaco Collier, Lainey Wilson, and Janelle Monáe took the stage to perform some of his greatest hits. The tribute celebrated his groundbreaking career, from jazz to pop, and his ability to shape generations of music.

Will Smith, who worked with Jones on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, introduced the segment, saying:

“A brilliant 28-time Grammy Award-winning producer, arranger, film, television composer, conductor, trumpet player, recording artist, and humanitarian. In his 91 years, Q touched countless lives. He changed mine forever.”

Raising Awareness for L.A. Wildfire Relief

This year’s Grammys year was also about giving back. The Recording Academy and MusiCares stepped up to aid after the tragic wildfires that destroyed thousands of homes and businesses in Los Angeles, which started on January 7.

They launched the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort to Support Music Professionals, raising funds to aid those affected and support wildfire prevention. Thousands of people lost everything, and the Grammys used their platform to bring attention to their struggles.

As part of this effort, the show included tributes to first responders, donations from major sponsors, and special performances dedicated to the resilience of L.A. communities.