Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars paid homage to Los Angeles with a performance of “California Dreamin’” at the 2025 Grammys.
After a harrowing video detailed the effects of the wildfires on the L.A. community, the “Die With a Smile” singers performed a stripped down rendition of The Mamas & the Papas’ 1965 track.
“I love you California,” Gaga said at the end of the performance, which prompted the crowd to erupt in a standing ovation. Grammys host Trevor Noah commended their tribute, reminding “to donate what you can” to MusiCares fire relief, an effort created by the Recording Academy to aid those affected by the wildfires.
Earlier in the night, Billie Eilish and Finneas hit the stage to perform their Grammy-nominated track “Birds of a Feather” with a set inspired by the mountains of California. Throughout the Grammys ceremony, Noah and many presenters reminded watchers of the devastating impact of the wildfires and urged watchers to donate what they can.
Gaga and Mars earned two nominations at the 2025 Grammys for “Die With a Smile,” including song of the year and best pop duo/group performance. Since debuting at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August, the song has remained at the top of the charts, soaring to No. 1 in January where it’s remained for four consecutive weeks.
Their 2025 Grammys performance comes on the heels of Gaga taking the stage at L.A.’s Kia Forum on Thursday for the FireAid wildfire benefit concert. She closed out the night by performing “Shallow” and “Always Remember Us This Way,” plus a surprise track she co-wrote alongside her fiancé, Michael Polansky, for the special night.
“When I was thinking about what to sing tonight, I thought I wanted to do something hopeful,” Gaga said during the FireAid benefit concert. “Me and my friend Michael, my fiancé, my love, we wrote this song for you. It’s just for tonight. It’s just for you.”
Gaga and Mars were a surprise addition to the performance lineup. They joined Billie Eilish, Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, Chappell Roan, Shakira, Benson Boone, Doechii, RAYE and Teddy Swims as the night’s performers.
Noah hosted the 67th Grammy Awards, which aired live from Los Angeles on Feb. 2. Find the complete list of the night’s winners here.
English (US) ·