This year's Grammy awards, which took place in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 1, 2026, were an opportune time to highlight some of roots music's finest music and musicians.
On Friday, January 30 at the Roxy Theatre, Dwight Yoakam headlined the first Rockin’ For The Kids benefit show to raise funds for pediatric care services and to honor the Children's Hospital Los Angeles' work with families in need. He was joined on stage by Charley Crockett, Lukas Nelson, and others.
On Saturday, January 31, at the Troubadour, AMERICANAFEST presented another of its Pre-Grammy Salute shows, this one to Neil Young. While Young did not make an appearance, it was, with Rhiannon Giddens, Margo Price, Jesse Welles, and others, an Americana love fest nonetheless.
While the Grammys have created awards categories for roots musicians, these two notable weekend events in the City of Angels spoke directly to roots music fans.
Column regulars were there to catch the action and soak in the vibes. Liza Orozco was at the Yoakam benefit and Jim Brock attended the Young tribute. Their respective reports and photos are below.
