NEWS
The 2026 Grammys turned into a huge night for Kendrick Lamar, who walked away with several major trophies. Among his wins were Best Rap Album, Best Rap Song, and Record of the Year, among others. The Record of the Year prize was awarded to him alongside SZA for their track "luther," with Cher presenting the category. The announcement briefly caused confusion when the legendary pop star mistakenly declared the late Luther Vandross as the recipient.
The moment was taken in good spirits by those watching. Vandross’ official Instagram page later acknowledged the situation with a post of Cher’s announcement, paired with vintage footage of Vandross accepting one of his own accolades. "If only we could turn back time, @Cher ❤️," the caption reads.
SZA spoke in support of Cher while speaking with Entertainment Tonight shortly after the ceremony, explaining that she understands why the mix up happened.
Read More: Kendrick Lamar's Handwrap At The Grammys Sparks Theories About His Next Album
“We share the frequency of the song. Like, that’s his frequency that allowed us to win and that allowed it to be memorable,” she explained. “So, she’s not wrong and she’s from that era. She probably really knew Luther Vandross. Of course, her brain and her energy is connecting that energy to the energy that we’re sharing.”
“We’re mooching off of what Luther already gave us,” SZA continued. “We’re grateful. It’s like, I wish I could speak to him. Thank you, Luther.”
Kendrick also made sure to acknowledge Vandross during his acceptance speech, expressing his appreciation for being able to sample the iconic singer. “Luther Vandross is one of my favorite artists of all time," he explained. "They granted us the privilege to do our version of it. When we got that clearance, I promise you we all near dropped to tears. It proved we were somewhat worthy to be just as great as them individuals. They granted us that.”
DragonForce have officially introduced Alissa White-Gluz as the band’s newest vocalist, revealing that the former Arch Enemy singer will now perform alongside longtime frontman Marc Hudson as the group moves into a new era.
Her debut performances with the band are happening soon, with White-Gluz set to appear at Florida’s Welcome To Rockville this weekend before joining DragonForce again at Ohio’s Sonic Temple the following week.
The upcoming concerts are part of the celebration marking 20 years since the release of Inhuman Rampage, the 2005 record that pushed DragonForce into worldwide metal success.
The group also revealed that this new version of the band has already started creating new music, hinting at an exciting new direction for the future.
Founding guitarist Herman Li described White-Gluz joining the band as an important new chapter for DragonForce.
He explained: “Alissa joining the band is an expansion of everything we’ve done up to this point."
Li also shared that even after two decades together, the band still feels inspired to keep evolving.
He said: “Together we will honour what made Inhuman Rampage matter, while showing people exactly where we’re going next… She doesn’t just sing, she makes all aspects of our music better. And she sounds incredible live!”
White-Gluz opened up about how excited she is to take on the new role, saying the collaboration already feels creatively rewarding and refreshing.
She said: “I am beyond excited to be bringing such iconic music to life with these amazingly skilled musicians.
“It feels great to showcase all the colours of my voice… in technically challenging, deeply energising, highly addictive songs.”
She also spoke about the continued support from fans over the years and how much it motivates her moving forward.
She said: “I want to keep pushing my boundaries and delivering exceptional music and live experiences to the fans that I cherish so much.”
The news follows a major transition period for White-Gluz, who officially exited Arch Enemy in November before releasing her debut solo single The Room Where She Died later that same day.
White-Gluz spent 12 years as part of the Swedish melodic death metal outfit.
The band's social media statement regarding her exit read: “Arch Enemy have parted ways with singer Alissa White-Gluz. We’re thankful for the time and music we’ve shared and wish her all the best. Wherever there is an ending, there is also a beginning. See you in 2026.”
White-Gluz wrote in her own statement: "After 12 years in Arch Enemy, we have parted ways. I am forever thankful to the thousands of amazing fans I have met along the way. Thank you, Beastligns! I can’t wait to share what I have been working on with you all (some big surprises in store). Stay tuned for big news in 2026 and see you very soon."
White-Gluz’s position in Arch Enemy was later filled by One Human musician Lauren Hart.
