All night long! Celebrities came to play at 2020 Grammys afterparties following the glitzy event at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on January 26. Although Lizzo led with the most nominations (a whopping eight), Billie Eilish swept during the awards show. She took home Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best New Artist. Her brother, Finneas O’Connell, who also won Producer of the Year, Non-Classical, stood by her side for most of the acceptance speeches.
It was a big night, but it had a sad undertone after the passing of basketball legend Kobe Bryant. He and his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, — plus reportedly seven other passengers — were killed in a tragic helicopter accident just hours before the awards show.
His celeb friends spent the evening honoring his legacy, and show host Alicia Keys gave a special tribute to the athlete to open the show.
“We never imagined in a million years we’d have to start the show like this,” the songstress began. “To be honest with you, we’re all feeling crazy sadness right now because earlier today Los Angeles, America and the whole wide world lost a hero … And we’re literally standing here heartbroken in the house that Kobe Bryant built.”
She concluded her heartfelt speech by adding that the people whom we lost are “in our spirits, our hearts, our prayers, in this building.” Alicia then began to sing “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday” with Boyz II Men.
Although the event was more somber than usual, the big artists of the year were still celebrated. Lizzo didn’t go home empty-handed. She won for Best Pop Solo Performance, Best Traditional R&B Performance and Best Urban Contemporary Album.
Lil Nas X, another favorite newcomer of the night, was awarded two prizes — Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best Music Video.
Whether they were nominated or not, it’s no surprise that celebrities were ready to let loose a bit. Keep scrolling for afterparty photos!