The 2026 Grammy Awards lineup has expanded to include Clipse and Pharrell Williams, announced on Thursday, January 22nd. The duo, known for their collaboration on hits like “Grindin’,” will perform at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 1st, with the ceremony broadcast live on CBS and Paramount+.
A Response to Fan Demand
The Recording Academy’s decision to include Clipse and Pharrell appears to be, at least in part, a response to fan feedback. The announcement marks the first confirmed rap performers for the upcoming awards show.
Multiple Grammy Nominations
Clipse has received five Grammy nominations for their album Let God Sort Em Out, including Album of the Year and Best Rap Album. They are also nominated for Best Rap Performance (“Chains & Whips”), Best Rap Song (“The Birds Don’t Sing”), and Best Music Video (“So Be It”).
A Potential Full-Circle Moment
In a 2025 interview with Billboard, Pusha T described a potential Grammy win as a “well-deserved full-circle moment” for the group. Malice echoed this sentiment, stating that winning a Grammy “would definitely mean a lot.”
What’s Next?
The performance on February 1st could include selections from Let God Sort Em Out as well as classic tracks from their earlier work, such as Lord Willin’. Pharrell Williams has publicly expressed a desire for them to perform “The Birds Don’t Sing” during the show. Additional performers, including Leon Thomas, KATSEYE, Sabrina Carpenter, Addison Rae, and Lola Young, have already been announced, and more names are expected to be revealed in the coming weeks. It remains possible that Kendrick Lamar or Tyler, The Creator could also end the decades-long drought for a rap artist winning Album of the Year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where will Clipse and Pharrell Williams perform?
Clipse and Pharrell Williams are scheduled to perform on February 1st at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
What album is Clipse nominated for at the 2026 Grammy Awards?
Clipse is nominated for Album of the Year and Best Rap Album for their album, Let God Sort Em Out.
Who else is performing at the 2026 Grammy Awards?
Previously announced performers include Leon Thomas, KATSEYE, Sabrina Carpenter, Addison Rae, and Lola Young. Additional performers are expected to be announced.
What impact might this performance have on the perception of hip-hop within the broader music industry?
