The Cure Wins Their First Grammys in 2026, But Misses Ceremony for Bandmate’s Funeral: A Heartfelt Moment

Robert Smith of the band The Cure in Miami in July 2023.
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Michele Eve Sandberg/Shutterstock

The Cure Wins First Grammy Awards

The Cure, the iconic English rock band, celebrated a significant achievement at the 2026 Grammy Awards held in Los Angeles on February 1. The band received their first-ever Grammy awards, taking home honors for Best Alternative Music Album for Songs of a Lost World and Best Alternative Music Performance for their track "Alone."

Despite their success, the members were notably absent from the ceremony, as they attended the private funeral of their bandmate Perry Bamonte, who passed away in December 2025 at the age of 65.

Singer-songwriter Jesse Welles, who presented the award for Best Alternative Music Performance, accepted the accolade on behalf of The Cure and read a touching speech from frontman Robert Smith. The message was later shared on the band’s Instagram page.

“Simon, Jason, Roger, Reeves, and I would like to thank the Grammys for this wonderful award. We are very honored to receive it,” Smith expressed. He also extended his gratitude to those involved in the creation of their 2025 album and to their fans. “Most importantly, all The Cure fans around this world who came to our Lost World shows and enjoyed our Lost World music… Without you, none of this would be possible. Thank you,” he added.

The Cure triumphed over notable nominees, including Bon Iver, Tyler, the Creator, Wet Leg, and Hayley Williams, in both award categories.

Perry Bamonte, who contributed significantly to The Cure as a guitarist and keyboardist, was remembered fondly by the band. The band posted on their official website that he “died after a short illness” at his home. In their tribute, they described Bamonte as “quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative.” They emphasized his integral role in the band’s journey, stating, “our thoughts and condolences are with all his family. He will be very greatly missed.”

Bamonte first joined The Cure in the mid-1980s and became a full-time member in 1990. After being dismissed in 2005, he rejoined the band in 2022, contributing to what many considered some of their best performances. His last show with The Cure took place on November 1, 2024, during their Show of a Lost World tour.