AceShowbiz - The annual Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Gala took place on January 31, 2026, at the luxurious Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. The event featured a star-studded class photo showcasing industry heavyweights. In the back row, attendees included Monte Lipman, Harvey Mason Jr., Sombr, Darren Criss, Pusha T, Malice, Machine Gun Kelly, Shay Mooney, John Legend, and Dan Smyers. The front row highlighted talents such as Rei Ami, EJAE, Audrey Nuna, Olivia Dean, Laufey, Avery Lipman, Art Garfunkel, Rickey Minor, Clive Davis, Jennifer Hudson, Jelly Roll, Gayle King, and Alex Warren.

Among the festivities, Laufey expressed excitement as she greeted Alex Warren and Sombr, sharing a heartfelt hug. This trio of Grammy nominees gathered in a private room, away from the red carpet. Other notable guests included Jelly Roll, John Legend, Olivia Dean, and Art Garfunkel, all personally invited by Davis.

Throughout the evening, the assembled stars delivered ten stunning performances. The night kicked off with a heartfelt tribute to Ozzy Osbourne by Jelly and MGK. Darren Criss and Laufey honored Bernie Taupin's songwriting legacy with a medley of Elton John hits, while Hudson paid tribute to the late Roberta Flack. Additionally, rising artists Sombr, Alex Warren, and Olivia Dean showcased their breakout tracks: “12 to 12,” “Ordinary,” and “Man I Need,” respectively.

During the gala, Davis addressed the room filled with iconic talents, emphasizing, “It’s special that we celebrate music and artistry.” This year's event particularly honored the co-founders of Republic Records, Monte and Avery Lipman, recipients of the 2026 Grammy Salute to Industry Icons. Universal Music Group CEO Lucian Grainge praised their journey, stating, “Success on their level is not inevitable.”