Camila Cabello's 2019 Grammys Opening Performance With Ricky Martin and J Balvin Includes Subtle Political Statement

The singer was joined by legends: Ricky Martin, J Balvin, Young Thug and Arturo Sandoval

By Alyssa Morin Feb 11, 2019 1:25 AMTags
Camila Cabello, 2019 Grammys, 2019 Grammy Awards, PerformanceCBS

The 2019 Grammys are starting off with a bang!

Not surprisingly, Camila Cabello brought the heat to the awards show with her unforgettable performance and jaw-dropping on-stage outfit.

The 21-year-old star made her Grammys performance debut as she energetically sang, danced and sashayed across the stage.

Both the viewers and audience members were overjoyed when she started playing her hit single, "Havana," which is on her self-titled album.

Notably, the pop star had some of the biggest artists in the game join her during the opening segment of the Grammys.

J BalvinRicky MartinYoung Thug and Arturo Sandoval performed alongside the "Havana" singer. Balvin performed his famous "Mi Gente" song with Camila. 

During the opening show, the "Safari" singer held up a newspaper that read, "Build bridges not walls." It was a subtle political statement, but a powerful one.

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Camila Cabello Has Her "Whole Squad" at 2019 Grammys

Aside from performing on music's biggest night, the pop star was nominated for two Grammys—Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Pop Solo Performance. However, she didn't win in her categories this year. Lady Gaga took home Best Pop Solo Performance while Ariana Grande won Best Pop Vocal Album.

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During Cabello's performance, she dazzled in vibrant yellow two-piece outfit. Her on-stage get-up was the opposite of what she wore on the Grammys red carpet.

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During her step and repeat, the star stunned in a hot pink sequins dress from Armani Prive that featured an open back design. She paired it with matching pink drop earrings, which were subtle, yet striking.

She tied her ensemble together with a slight smoky eye and nude lips, which is arguably her signature look.

Speaking to Ryan Seacrest on E!'s Live From the Red Carpet, the "Havana" singer hinted that her family members would make an appearance during her performance, especially since it was inspired by her grandmother's childhood.

"She grew up in... like a house full of rooms and everybody shared a common patio and there would be jam sessions and stuff" the star explains of her grandma. "The whole thing is based off my family, and I have my family in the performance, so I feel very protected."

However, the 21-year-old star isn't the only one hitting the Grammys stage. 

Other notable artists set to perform are Miley CyrusJanelle Monáe and Post Malone. Best of all? Country queen Dolly Parton will also take the stage with Katy Perry.

The night is just getting started, and from the looks of the opening performance, viewers are certainly in for a treat.