Kim Petras Makes History As First Openly Trans Pop Singer To Win A Grammy

Kim Petras became the first openly transgender woman singer to earn a Grammy. She, along with Sam Smith, won Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for their single, “Unholy.”

The track was nominated alongside ABBA’s “Don’t Shut Me Down,” Camila Cabello and Ed Sheeran‘s “Bam Bam,” Coldplay and BTS’ “My Universe” and Post Malone and Doja Cat‘s “I Like You (A Happier Song).”

In her acceptance speech, Petras praised Smith for being a supporter throughout her music career.

“I just want to thank all the incredible transgender legends performing who kicked these doors open for me so I could be here tonight,” she said.

She went on to mention the late experimental pop producer and singer-songwriter, Sophie, who collaborated with her on tracks like “1, 2, 3 Days Up.” “[Sophie] told me this would happen, and always believed in me. Thank you so much for your inspiration, Sophie. I adore you and your inspiration will forever be in my music.”

Petras also thanked Madonna for fighting for LGBTQ rights and said that she wouldn’t be on stage without her.

Petras also thanked her mother for her support. “I grew up next to a highway in Germany,” she told the audience. “And my mother believed me that I was a girl and I wouldn’t be here without her and her support and everyone who believed in me to this point.”

Petras and Smith performed the single live on stage with Madonna introducing the pair.

“Unholy” was a successful hit in 2022 and grew in popularity on TikTok. The song debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaked at No. 1 in its fourth week. This was the first song from either artist to reach No. 1.