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Music Icons Who Never Performed at the Grammy Awards

Published February 4, 2024

It might come as a surprise to many that Joni Mitchell, a name synonymous with musical brilliance, has not once performed at the Grammy Awards over the years. However, that's all set to change as the celebrated folk musician steps onto the Grammy stage for her maiden performance at the age of 80 during the 66th annual event in Los Angeles.

Mitchell joins a star-studded lineup including SZA, Billie Eilish, and U2, marking a significant moment in Grammy history. Having won nine Grammy Awards herself, Mitchell remains a significant figure in the industry. Her latest nomination comes from her 2023 live album, "Joni Mitchell at Newport Live," recorded at the Newport Folk Festival in 2022.

Yet, Joni Mitchell isn't the only industry titan to have never performed at the awards. The following is a list of legendary music acts that have also surprisingly never taken the stage at the Grammys.

The Beatles

The Fab Four although being Grammy winners, never showcased their talents live at the ceremony. This is a puzzling fact, especially considering their significant impact on music history.

Queen

Famed for their dynamic performances, it's a shock that Queen, with the charismatic Freddie Mercury at the helm, never performed at the Grammys. Astonishingly, they also never clinched a Grammy win.

Nirvana

Despite embodying the grunge movement and defining an era of music, Nirvana never unleashed their rebellious spirit on the Grammy stage, leaving fans to only imagine what could have been.

George Michael

Even after making the successful transition from his teen idol days in Wham! to a Grammy-winning solo artist, George Michael never graced the Grammy stage with a performance, or even to accept his awards in person.

2Pac

As a pivotal figure in hip-hop and being the first solo rapper in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it's noteworthy that 2Pac never had the opportunity to perform or deliver an acceptance speech at the Grammys.

Abba

The Swedish supergroup Abba also never had the chance to perform at the Grammys, and it wasn't until 2022 that they received their first nomination, despite their global pop dominance.

Joni, Mitchell, Grammys