Story perspectives

Alex Warren Faces Sound Issues at 2026 Grammys

3/12/2026

Summary

Alex Warren's Performance Woes

At the 2026 Grammy Awards, Alex Warren described severe in-ear monitor issues before performing "Ordinary," leaving him unable to hear himself.
Although rehearsals went perfectly, he struggled to stay on beat and removed his earpiece during the performance.
Afterward, he felt crushed when Olivia Dean won Best New Artist, but he appreciated support from Chappell Roan.
He later deleted social media apps to avoid negative discussions about the incident.

History

Historical Context

In-ear monitors (IEMs) emerged in the mid-1980s, revolutionizing live performances by allowing artists to hear themselves clearly while reducing on-stage volume. This technology, pioneered by Jerry Harvey, became essential for musicians, enhancing performance quality. However, failures, like Alex Warren's experience at the 2026 Grammy Awards, highlight the ongoing challenges artists face, emphasizing the need for reliable equipment in live settings.

1 of 2

Alex Warren's Performance Woes

At the 2026 Grammy Awards, Alex Warren described severe in-ear monitor issues before performing "Ordinary," leaving him unable to hear himself.
Although rehearsals went perfectly, he struggled to stay on beat and removed his earpiece during the performance.
Afterward, he felt crushed when Olivia Dean won Best New Artist, but he appreciated support from Chappell Roan.
He later deleted social media apps to avoid negative discussions about the incident.

1 / 2