Will Smith Returns to Grammy Stage for First Time Since Oscars Slap to Honor Quincy Jones
Will Smith Makes Grammy Comeback with Quincy Jones Tribute
Will Smith made a highly anticipated return to a major awards show at the 67th Grammy Awards. The actor and rapper took the stage on February 2, 2025, to introduce the "In Memoriam" tribute for legendary producer Quincy Jones. This marked Smith's first appearance at a significant award ceremony since the 2022 Oscars controversy.
A Heartfelt Tribute to Quincy Jones
During the segment, Smith introduced pianist Herbie Hancock before delivering an emotional speech honoring Quincy Jones, who passed away in November 2024 at age 91. He praised Jones as one of the most influential figures in music history, highlighting his impact on Smith’s career—particularly as the executive producer of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the show that launched Smith to stardom.
#WillSmith attends the 67th Annual GRAMMY Awards ???? pic.twitter.com/ShgkMyn5ak
— TheWrap (@TheWrap) February 3, 2025
Star-Studded Musical Performances
The tribute featured outstanding performances from various artists. Cynthia Erivo performed Fly Me to the Moon, a song arranged by Quincy for Frank Sinatra. Lainey Wilson and Jacob Collier followed with Let the Good Times Roll, while Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock played We Are the World, which Quincy famously produced. Janelle Monae concluded the tribute with an energetic rendition of Michael Jackson’s Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough, showcasing Jones’ lasting impact on the music industry.
Will Smith’s Return Sparks Fan Reactions
#WillSmith on #GRAMMYs stage? Violence is violence, a national epidemic, not to be endorsed by #Grammys pic.twitter.com/vg5kvf1uEZ
— Embrace Your Music (@mainesongwriter) February 3, 2025
Smith’s appearance at the Grammys sparked conversations online, as it was his first major award show since the 2022 Oscars controversy. At the Academy Awards, he infamously slapped comedian Chris Rock after a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith.
Watching Will Smith continue to talk #GRAMMYs pic.twitter.com/bLbUqunDp5
— Camp Reality Pod (@camprealitypod) February 3, 2025
