Long one of the most iconic forces in music, Beyoncé also entered the 2025 Grammy Awards as the most victorious artist. Her record-breaking total of wins did not, however, include a nod for Album of the Year.
That changed just prior to midnight Sunday, when her “Cowboy Carter” received the honor that had long eluded her.
“Cowboy Carter” did end up closing as the betting favorite, but it was far from a lock. So much of the year’s dialogue focused on rising pop stars like Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Charli XCX, all of whom had a nomination in that category. Four-time Album of the Year winner Taylor Swift was also in the mix, as were strong dark horses in Andre 3000 and Jacob Collier.
Still, when push came to shove, it was the Beyoncé album that won the most important Grammy trophy.