Grammy Awards 2012: Memorable Live Performances

The 2012 Grammy Awards featured a diverse lineup of live performances spanning rock, pop, country, R&B and electronic music. Below are highlights from the show presented in the order they appeared, each paired with an embedded video clip. These performances capture the range of talent and collaboration that made the evening noteworthy.

Bruce Springsteen – We Take Care Of Our Own

Bruce Springsteen opened with a spirited rendition of “We Take Care Of Our Own,” delivering his characteristic energy and band-driven sound. The performance set a high bar early in the ceremony.

Bruno Mars – Runaway

Bruno Mars performed “Runaway” with his trademark charisma and vocal control, blending contemporary pop with classic showmanship.

Chris Brown

Chris Brown delivered a high-energy set showcasing his dance moves and vocal agility, reflecting the pop-R&B style he is known for.

Kelly Clarkson and Jason Aldean – Don’t You Wanna Stay

Kelly Clarkson joined country star Jason Aldean for a duet of “Don’t You Wanna Stay,” blending powerful pop vocals with country phrasing for a dynamic collaboration.

Alicia Keys and Bonnie Raitt – Tribute to Etta James: Sunday Kind of Love

Alicia Keys and Bonnie Raitt performed a heartfelt tribute to Etta James with “Sunday Kind of Love,” honoring the legacy of classic soul and blues through nuanced vocals and restrained musicianship.

Foo Fighters – Walk

The Foo Fighters brought a driving rock performance of “Walk,” with strong guitar work and an anthemic vocal delivery that energized the audience.

Rihanna and Coldplay

Rihanna teamed up with Coldplay for a collaborative performance that blended her pop sensibilities with the band’s atmospheric rock arrangements, creating a memorable on-stage pairing.

Beach Boys Reunion featuring Maroon 5 and Foster the People

A special reunion of the Beach Boys included guest appearances by Maroon 5 and Foster the People, honoring classic harmonies and bridging generations of pop and rock music.

Paul McCartney with Diana Krall and Joe Walsh – My Valentine

Paul McCartney performed “My Valentine” accompanied by Diana Krall and Joe Walsh, presenting a tender, melodic arrangement featuring acoustic textures and warm vocals.

Taylor Swift – Mean

Taylor Swift delivered a polished performance of “Mean,” highlighting her storytelling lyrics and clear vocal delivery in a stripped-back staging.

Adele – Rolling in the Deep

Adele performed “Rolling in the Deep” with powerful vocals and emotive intensity, a standout moment characterized by raw feeling and strong audience response.

Glenn Campbell with The Band Perry and Blake Shelton

Glenn Campbell shared the stage with The Band Perry and Blake Shelton for a country-leaning performance that paid tribute to classic songwriting and vocal harmony.

Carrie Underwood and Tony Bennett – It Had To Be You

Carrie Underwood and Tony Bennett teamed up for a rendition of “It Had To Be You,” blending country-pop and classic jazz-pop traditions with warm vocal interplay.

Jennifer Hudson – I Will Always Love You

Jennifer Hudson offered an emotional and powerful performance of “I Will Always Love You,” showcasing her wide vocal range and interpretive strength.

David Guetta, Deadmau5, Foo Fighters, Chris Brown and Lil Wayne

An eclectic collaborative segment brought together electronic producers and artists alongside rock and hip-hop performers, creating a hybrid set that crossed genre boundaries.

Nicki Minaj – Roman Holiday

Nicki Minaj performed “Roman Holiday” with theatrical flair, combining rap, melody and striking stage visuals for a dramatic presentation.

Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Dave Grohl and More – Abbey Road Medley

Several artists joined Paul McCartney for an extended medley from Abbey Road, celebrating classic Beatles material through collaborative arrangements involving rock icons from different generations.

These clips represent key musical moments from the Grammy Awards of 2012. The show highlighted both established legends and contemporary stars, offering a broad showcase of live performance styles and notable collaborations. Browse the embedded videos above to revisit each performance.