SZA Reacts to Cher’s Luther Vandross Mix-Up at Grammys 2026

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SZA welcomed Cher‘s Grammys mixup with open arms.

Okay, so this is a little crazy! Cher had a hilarious mix-up at the Grammys – she announced Luther Vandross as the Record of the Year winner when it was actually Kendrick Lamar and me for our song, ‘Luther.’ Honestly, I totally get how it happened! It’s easy to stumble over names when you’re up there, and it’s all good – we’re all human, right? I’m just taking it in stride!

After the February 1st awards show, SZA explained to Entertainment Tonight that she and the artist share a special connection, describing it as a ‘frequency’ that contributed to their win and made the moment stand out.

You know, she’s absolutely right. Being from that generation, she likely knew Luther Vandross personally – really experienced his music. And honestly, I think that memory, that feeling she has, is connecting with the vibe we’re all creating right now. It’s like her energy is resonating with ours, and it just feels so good.

As SZA mentioned, their Grammy-winning song actually uses a sample from Luther and Cheryl Lynn’s version of “If This World Were Mine,” which explains why the mistake happened.

She explained that they were building on the foundation Luther had created, and they were very thankful for that. She added that she wished she could personally thank him for his contributions.

The 36-year-old went on to detail the reverence she already had for Cher prior to the Grammys.

SZA recounted meeting Cher at the Cyndi Lauper tribute concert in October, saying she was completely struck by Cher’s beauty. “She looked me right in the eyes, and I just froze – I couldn’t get any words out,” SZA explained. “I have no idea what happened to me in that moment.”

She quickly added, “And I really do love Cher! She’s like my soulmate, my ‘twin flame,’ you could say. She’s a queen of clubs – you can look up what that symbolizes if you’re curious.”

The Grammys had a funny moment when singer Cher unexpectedly realized she was meant to announce the Record of the Year – she’d completely forgotten!

Cher received a standing ovation as she took the stage as a surprise presenter, just one day after receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammys. She then gave a short, two-minute acceptance speech.

She finished speaking and said, “I think that’s everything.” Then, as if expecting to be dismissed, she added, “Okay, I’ll just be going now.”

The 79-year-old then proceeded to leave the stage before host Trevor Noah interjected.

As Cher was leaving the stage, the host called out, “Cher, would you mind announcing the nominees?” He explained, “I could do it, but it wouldn’t have the same impact. You’re the one everyone wants to hear! Welcome back, Cher!”

Keep reading for more moments from the 2026 Grammys…

When Bad Bunny won Album of the Year for DeBí TiRAR MáS FOToS, he remained still, covering his face with his hand. He stayed that way for almost 24 seconds, seemingly overwhelmed with emotion.

Miley Cyrus and Jelly Roll, along with Shaboozey, won Best Country Duo/Group Performance at the 2026 Grammys for their song “Amen,” and they enjoyed the celebratory atmosphere.

Rosé chilled out with Bruno Mars after they opened the show performing their smash-hit single “APT.”

Nikki Glaser is a multi-talented performer – she hosted the Golden Globes and was even nominated for a Grammy last year. While she didn’t receive a nomination this year, she was recognized for her work previously.

Tate McRae will always remember her and Lady Gaga this way.

Jelly Roll got an “Amen” from wife Bunnie XO when he won Best Country Duo/Group Performance.

Jelly Roll, Shaboozey, Kelsea Ballerini, Reba McEntire, ZZ Top, and Lainey Wilson all gathered for a memorable group photo.

Jamie Foxx took the liberty of capturing the moment for Teddy Swims and Babyface.

Though Haim’s album I Quit didn’t win the Best Rock Album award—Turnstile’s Never Enough took home the prize—Alana, Danielle, and Este Haim are still proud of their coordinated outfits.

Producer Jack Antonoff, who was nominated for Album of the Year for his work on Sabrina Carpenter’s Man’s Best Friend, might one day wish he’d chosen a different outfit than jeans and a T-shirt. Luckily, his wife, Margaret Qualley, was there to remind him of that.

Charli XCX glanced to her left as she walked backstage, preparing to present the award for Best Pop Solo Performance.

Sharon, Jack, and Kelly Osbourne were special guests at the Grammys, where the show honored their father, Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away in July 2025.

At the beginning of the Grammys, before the televised show, Steven Spielberg earned EGOT status – becoming only the 22nd person (or 28th, including honorary awards) to do so. He won a Grammy for Best Music Film as a producer on the documentary Music by John Williams, adding to his already remarkable collection of awards.

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2026-02-02 17:49