Durand Bernarr is one of the most beloved multi-hyphenates in music. From their lengthy resume doing background work with the industry’s biggest names to Bernarr’s never-ending database of hilarious viral moments and their striking solo music, Bernarr is indeed everyone’s favorite imaginary cousin.
While all of the cool kids are enamoured with Durand Bernarr, the industry has finally caught up. After securing several nominations and certificates for featured contributions, yesterday (February 1), Durand Bernarr took home a Grammy Award for themselves — their first.
Going up against FLO’s Access All Areas, Bilal’s Adjust Brightness, Destin Conrad’s LOVE ON DIGITAL, and Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon’s Come As You Are, Durand Bernarr’s BLOOM stood victorious in the Best Progressive R&B Album category.
During Bernarr’s speech for Best Progressive R&B Album used the moment to shed light on often overlooked independent musicians, Black people, and queer folks alongside their parents.
“Happy Black History Month for the rest of my life,” proclaimed Bernarr. “I want to remind everyone that we are all we got, and we know I am referring to, so please give yourself some grace and extend some kindness to your neighbor who needs it.”
They continued: “To all independent artists out there and to every Butch Queen who was made to feel like you were too much, I am the proof that you needed and the sign that you have been waiting for. Be yourself.”
To close out their remarks, Bernarr turned inward, saying: “I want to thank myself because this was some hard work, y’all — 20 plus years.”
Watch Durand Bernarr’s full acceptance for Best Progressive R&B Album during the 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony below.
Durand Bernarr was also nominated for Best Traditional R&B Performance (“Here We Are”) and Best R&B Song (“Overqualified”). View the full list of winners for the 2026 Grammy Awards here.
Durand Bernarr’s latest album, Bloom, is out now via Dsing Records/Create Music Group. Click here to stream or order.