During the 2025 Grammy Awards, Lady Gaga used her platform to deliver a heartfelt and powerful message in support of the trans community, stating, “Trans people are not invisible. Trans people deserve love. The Queer community deserves to be lifted up. Music is love.”
Her words came as part of a moving tribute to Los Angeles, which was reeling from the aftermath of devastating wildfires. Gaga, who has long been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, joined Bruno Mars for a stripped-down rendition of “California Dreamin’,” a 1965 classic by The Mamas & the Papas. Their performance, which followed a harrowing video that depicted the wildfires’ toll on the Los Angeles community, left a lasting impression on the audience, as both artists paid homage to the city they love.
“I love you, California,” Gaga said at the conclusion of the performance, a sentiment that sparked an emotional standing ovation from the crowd. Grammys host Trevor Noah, who guided the ceremony, echoed Gaga’s message and reminded viewers to support the ongoing MusiCares fire relief efforts, which were created by the Recording Academy to aid those impacted by the wildfires.
A Heartfelt Tribute to California and the Queer Community
Gaga’s poignant message for the trans and queer community stood out as one of the most significant moments of the evening. At a time when trans visibility and rights continue to face challenges across the globe, her declaration was a powerful reminder of the importance of love, acceptance, and representation.
During the performance, Gaga and Mars took to the stage with minimal instrumentation, creating an intimate moment that underscored the song’s theme of longing and nostalgia. The stripped-down version of “California Dreamin’” was not only a tribute to the city’s resilience but also a symbol of hope for those affected by the wildfires. Gaga’s words and performance underscored her long-standing commitment to advocating for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly trans individuals who often face invisibility and discrimination.
Before taking the stage for the tribute, Gaga had been vocal about her desire to contribute something hopeful to the night. During a prior FireAid benefit concert in Los Angeles, Gaga reflected on the tragedy caused by the wildfires, telling the crowd that she and her fiancé, Michael Polansky, had written a new song specifically for the occasion. “When I was thinking about what to sing tonight, I thought I wanted to do something hopeful,” Gaga said at the FireAid event. “This song is just for tonight. It’s just for you.” Her words at both events clearly emphasized her dedication to spreading love and uplifting those in need, especially within the queer community.
A Historic Night for LGBTQ+ Artists at the Grammys
The 2025 Grammy Awards were a major milestone for queer representation in music, with several LGBTQ+ artists taking center stage throughout the ceremony. Gaga’s performance was part of a larger focus on queer visibility, with artists such as Chappell Roan, Doechii, and Troye Sivan earning recognition and taking the stage during the event.
This year, the Grammys featured multiple queer voices in both performances and nominations, further solidifying the message that LGBTQ+ artists are not only present but thriving in the music industry. Gaga’s statement, standing in solidarity with trans people, was a call to action for the broader community to be seen, heard, and loved for who they are.
A Moment to Reflect and Take Action
Gaga’s call to action for the trans community was not only a personal reflection but also a public challenge to the industry at large. Her message that “music is love” tied into the broader theme of unity and support that transcended the evening’s celebrations. It was a reminder that while music has the power to heal, inspire, and unite, it also has the responsibility to lift up marginalized voices and ensure that everyone is heard.
As the ceremony unfolded, many presenters and artists echoed the importance of supporting those affected by the wildfires and contributing to relief efforts. However, Gaga’s words served as a poignant reminder that the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, and specifically the visibility and protection of trans people, continues to be a crucial conversation.
With her heartfelt tribute and message of love, Gaga once again proved why she remains one of the most influential voices in music today—using her platform not only to entertain but to advocate for change and equality for all.
