The Cure Makes History at the '2026 Grammy Awards' Amid Tragedy

During the 2026 Grammy Awards, many talented artists were recognized for their work. Still, one of the most noteworthy events at the awards show is the fact that an iconic rock band, The Cure, managed to have a truly historic moment. Sadly, however, the triumph comes amid a true tragedy for the legendary group.

The Cure Win Their First Grammy Award Ever

After decades as one of rock's most influential bands, The Cure has been honored in many ways, including being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Despite that and the fact that they have released many songs that mean the world to fans, they had never won a Grammy Award until 2026, when they won two.

The Cure won Best Alternative Music Performance for "Alone," after beating out Bon Iver, Turnstile, Wet Leg, and Hayley Williams. They were also recognized for releasing the Best Alternative Music Album for "Songs of a Lost World." Their fellow nominees in that category were Tyler, the Creator, Bon Iver, Wet Leg, and Hayley Williams.

Before 2026, The Cure had only been nominated for two other Grammy Awards. They had been nominated for Best Alternative Music Album twice, for "Wish" and "Bloodflowers," but they lost in both of those cases.

The Cure's Grammy Triumph Came During A Time of Mourning for the Band

When The Cure won their first Grammy Awards ever, they weren't there to collect their trophies and give a speech. Sadly, there is a tragic reason for that, according to Stereogum. Instead of attending the awards show, the members of The Cure spent February 1, 2026, at a funeral for the band's former guitarist, Perry Bamonte.

In December 2025, the band released a statement on their website revealing that Bamonte had died over at the age of 65 years old. “It is with enormous sadness that we confirm the death of our great friend and bandmate Perry Bamonte, who passed away after a short illness at home over Christmas. Quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative,
‘Teddy’ was a warm-hearted and vital part of the cure story."

The band's statement went on to describe the role that Bamonte had in The Cure's history. "‘Looking after the band’ from 1984 through 1989, He became a full time member of the cure in 1990, Playing guitar, six string bass and keyboard On the wish, wild mood swings, bloodflowers, Acoustic hits and the cure albums, As well as performing more than 400 shows over 14 years. He rejoined the cure in 2022, playing another 90 shows, Some of the best in the band’s history, Culminating with the show of a lost world concert In london 1st november 2024. Our thoughts and condolences are with all his family. He Will be very greatly missed."

Our thoughts are with Perry Bamonte’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.