The Grammys have never been known to be boring. Though the awards show isn’t usually cluttered with nail-biting drama, the earth-shattering vocals and political statements are usually enough to keep viewers hooked all night long. It’s a feel good event full of praise and well-earned applause. This year proved to follow suit, displaying some of the most incredible live talent in years. From Kendrick Lamar’s chilling live versions of “Alright” and “Blacker the Berry” to Lady Gaga’s Bowie tribute, the stage was set for the 58th Annual Grammy Awards to be conversational as ever.  Below, I have outlined some of the most Grammy-worthy, show-stopping moments.

Taylor Swift- “Out of the Woods:”

In my personal opinion, it’s impossible to last an entire Swift performance without getting chills. As the night’s opener, Swift took a little piece of her 1989 World Tour to the Staples Center stage. Her powerful vocals were perfectly showcased in “Out Of The Woods.” Those who criticized Swift in the past for vocal capability will no doubt agree that the country-gone-pop star has finally found her niche after years of skating by on songs only relatable to pre-teen fans.

The Weeknd- “I Can’t Feel My Face” and “In The Night”

The Weeknd has always been known for his live performances, but after launching to the top of the public’s eye with his “Fifty Shades of Grey” debut, his music was more welcome to the Grammy stage than ever. “In The Night” was a clear standout on The Weeknd’s latest release, “Beauty Behind The Madness.” Hearing the Michael Jackson-like tune stripped down to a piano base was refreshing and unexpected, yet inviting and majorly impressive. The difference proved that the R&B king doesn’t rely on autotune, production quality or simply rapping to present a good track.

Tori Kelly and James Bay: “Let It Go” and “Hollow” mash up

The Grammy newcomers, both nominated for Best New Artist, showcased chilling vocal capabilities in a match-up that, frankly, should become an all-time thing. Kelly and Bay’s voices meshed more than perfectly in harmonies complimented with beautiful acoustic strumming. The pair created one of the most memorable performances of the night in a pair that no one doubted, but also didn’t expect to steal the show.

Kendrick Lamar:

I expected a lot from Lamar considering he was nominated for the most awards of the night, 11 in total. Lamar not only met those expectations, but exceeded them purely in his lyrical fluidity. Beyond Lamar’s statement making performance was the only proof needed to convince viewers he was worthy of the awards he was up for. Lamar is so far beyond other rappers of the era in his musical capabilities, as he never relies on the track to do the work for him. This performance perfectly captured everything we love him for and reminded us of his raw talent and his ability to speak up for issues that matter in a truly artistic way.

Lady Gaga- Bowie Tribute

Lady Gaga was the perfect person to pull this tribute off because she is one of the only celebrities willing to put her own persona aside in order to embody David Bowie to the best of her abilities. From set, choreography and costume, Gaga was Bowie. Her equally eccentric art form mirrored that of Bowie and embraced his controversial androgyny in her own light. Gaga did not just dress up in a Bowie costume to sing a few songs. She became her subject as best she could.

Hollywood Vampires-

I can’t say I ever expected to see Johnny Depp play guitar, let alone play alongside Alice Cooper and Joe Perry. Not only that, but to see Johnny Depp keep up with Joe Perry was unbelievable. This was the group’s television debut, and it was, I’m sure, a shock for many. But the group, quoted as saying that Rock and Roll is not dead, was right. The Vampires brought back the sound of Alice Cooper and Aerosmith in all its glory. I know I won’t be the only one keeping an eye out for their next move.