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Grammys 2026: Newcomers Vie for Top Honors in Wide-Open Race
22 Oct
Summary
- No albums from Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, and Adele
- Kendrick Lamar seen as heavy favorite for Album of the Year
- Opportunity for lesser-known acts like PinkPantheress and Ravyn Lenae
The 2026 Grammy Awards are shaping up to be a wide-open race, with no albums from major stars like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, and Adele in the eligibility window. This creates a prime opportunity for newcomers and insurgent acts to make their mark.
Kendrick Lamar is seen as the heavy favorite for Album of the Year, having won five awards at the 2025 show for his hit single "Not Like Us." However, the acclaimed rapper is still awaiting his proper coronation, having fallen short in previous nominations for albums like Good Kid, M.A.A.D City and To Pimp a Butterfly.
Beyond Lamar, the Recording Academy has a blank canvas to fill with fresh nominees. Voters could choose to play it safe, but there's also a chance they'll embrace more inventive and vibrant acts, such as PinkPantheress and Ravyn Lenae, who could potentially upgrade more established names like Alex Warren and H.E.R.
The final nominations will be announced on Friday, November 7, setting the stage for what promises to be an unpredictable and exciting Grammys ceremony in 2026.
