See the Clive Davis Grammys 2025 Class Photo

Even after 50 years of assembling music‘s biggest and brightest for his pre-Grammy gala, Clive Davis still has some tricks up his sleeve.

In partnership with the Recording Academy, the music mogul, with the help of his son, attorney Doug Davis, curated a signature mix of iconic performers and anointed rising stars for a night heavy on only-in-the-room moments. It kicked off in The Hollywood Reporter’s exclusive portrait studio inside The Beverly Hilton, where new artist nominees Shaboozey, Teddy Swims, Benson Boone and Doechii smashed the notion of competitive spirit. “That we’ve all gotten to know each other really makes it feel like it’s senior year — like a graduating class,” Shaboozey said. “This is really cool, and we all respect each other.”

To be sure, a hush fell over the room when elder statesmen Joni Mitchell and Barry Manilow breezed in and assumed position. “Beautiful Things” singer Boone cradled up against Swims. (“I love you so much, bro,” said Boone.) Post Malone shared laughs with Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. Chad Smith, Metallica’s Rob Trujillo and The Black Crowes traded road stories. Jimmy Kimmel caught up with producer Andrew Watt. And Michael Bublé marveled at his luck. “I have so much street cred now with my kids after meeting Post Malone,” said the crooner, who paid tribute to Quincy Jones that night. “And I met my Canadian queen, Joni Mitchell.”

The night delivered a pinch-me moment for Grammy winner Samara Joy: “I’m a New Yorker, so I only get to experience the [Hollywood] glitz and the glamour once a year. These are icons, and it’s an honor to share the same space.”