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.
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“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.”
Zara Larsson has indicated that she may have cancelled her December 3 appearance at the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The singer initially confirmed that she would not attend, before removing the comment and sharing a more detailed explanation of why the performance no longer feels right for her.
The Swedish star was scheduled to take the stage at Etihad Live on Yas Island during the Yasalam After-Race Concerts. Zara and Lewis Capaldi were due to launch the weekend’s entertainment. However, supporters encouraged her to reconsider the booking because of concerns surrounding the United Arab Emirates’ reported connections to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary organisation accused of committing atrocities during the nation’s civil conflict.
A fan commented: “Please read about what UAE is doing to Sudan then cancel your Abu Dhabi show!” Zara responded: “I will not be going to Abu Dhabi.” Fans later realised that both comments had been removed.
She then shared that she had been considering what it means for her, as an artist, to perform in particular countries.
The Midnight Sun singer explained: “I think about that a lot in my life as an artist… I wanna perform and spread joy and music for people in every country, because no single person is their government.
“I’ve met so many wonderful people from every corner of the world and I know this to be true in my heart. I love people, and I love my fans soooo much.”
Zara acknowledged that her original comment “maybe came off as an impulsive response,” but explained that she had given the booking serious thought. She now believes withdrawing is the decision that “aligns with me the most right now, for many different personal reasons beyond politics.”
She continued: “Maybe I’ll delete both comments and do a better statement soon. I hope to sing with you in the beautiful future!”
