A lip reader claims to have uncovered the nine-word message Jay-Z whispered in Beyoncé’s ear following her Grammy win.
At the 2025 Grammy Awards, Beyoncé won big, and her husband Jay-Z couldn’t have been prouder.
Jay-Z’s excitement for Beyoncé’s Grammy wins
On February 2, 2025, Beyoncé won the prestigious Grammy for Best Country Album for her eighth studio album Cowboy Carter. The album also won Album of the Year, recognizing Beyoncé’s groundbreaking dive into Black roots in country music.
Beyoncé’s win marks a major milestone, as Cowboy Carter highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black artists to the genre.
Introduced by Taylor Swift, Beyoncé appeared genuinely surprised to receive the award. However, her husband Jay-Z knew she would win, according to lip-reading expert NJ Hickling.
The nine words Jay-Z whispered to Beyoncé
As Beyoncé made her way to the stage, she hugged Jay-Z and their daughter, Blue Ivy. It was then that Jay-Z allegedly whispered something to Beyoncé.
Lip reader NJ Hickling interpreted his message as: “Woah woah woah. Bout time! You’re a top girl.”
This moment adds a personal touch to Beyoncé’s historic night, showing the couple’s supportive and loving relationship.
Beyoncé’s heartfelt Grammy speech
Once on stage, Beyoncé expressed her gratitude and shock at the win.
“Wow, I really was not expecting this,” she said. “I want to thank God, oh my God, that I’m able to still do what I love after so many years.”
She also thanked the country artists who embraced her album, stressing the importance of following one’s passion despite genre boundaries.
“I think sometimes genre is a code word to keep us in our place as artists,” Beyoncé continued. “I just want to encourage people to do what they’re passionate about, and to say, ‘Stay persistent.'”
Beyoncé dedicates her Grammy win to Linda Martell
Beyoncé dedicated her Grammy to Linda Martell, a trailblazer for Black women in country music. Martell was the first Black woman to perform solo at the Grand Ole Opry.
Her influence is celebrated on Cowboy Carter, where she is featured on several tracks.
In addition to Best Country Album and Album of the Year, Beyoncé won Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “II Most Wanted” with Miley Cyrus.
With 35 Grammy wins and 99 nominations since her first nomination in 2000, Beyoncé is the most awarded artist in Grammy history.
Beyoncé’s 2025 Grammy wins were not only a personal achievement but also a landmark moment for Black artists in country music. With support from her family and a clear message of persistence, Queen Bey continues to inspire.