Grammy Awards 2026 Preview: A Night of Music and Surprises

Mon Feb 02 2026 03:41:07 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Explore the anticipated moments of the 2026 Grammy Awards, including predictions for major categories, standout performances, and the cultural impact of this year's nominees.

As the Grammy Awards approach, excitement builds around potential winners and notable performances. Kendrick Lamar leads nominations, while artists like Bad Bunny and Lady Gaga are vying for prestigious awards. With a focus on inclusivity and recognition of diverse musical backgrounds, this year's ceremony promises to deliver memorable moments and significant cultural commentary.

Grammy Awards 2026 Preview: A Night of Music and Surprises

At the ripe old age of 67, the Grammy Awards are still considered music's biggest night. This year's ceremony takes place in LA, featuring attendees from A-list artists such as Harry Styles to Chaka Khan.

Kendrick Lamar tops the nominations with nine, primarily for his album GNX. His previous triumphs have set high expectations as he aims for another significant win.

Hot on Lamar's heels is Lady Gaga, who boasts seven nominations alongside contenders Bad Bunny, Sabrina Carpenter, and Leon Thomas, each with six nods. This year, a total of 95 awards will be distributed over eight hours, showcasing various categories from Album of the Year to Best Ambient Album.

Who’s Going to Win Album of the Year?

An intense competition is anticipated for Album of the Year with Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar, and Lady Gaga leading the charge. Despite their previous nominations, none have claimed the title yet, making this a crucial year for all three.

Lamar's consistent nominations emphasize his powerful presence in the industry, while Gaga's recent album, which marks a return to her pop roots, is not to be overlooked. Meanwhile, Bad Bunny's innovative fusion of genres positions him as a frontrunner, potentially making history as the first winner for an album sung entirely in Spanish.

Will There Be Justice for Milli Vanilli?

Returning to the spotlight after years, Milli Vanilli's Fab Morvan seeks redemption with a nomination for his audiobook, You Know It's True, narrating the duo's infamous story of losing their Grammy due to a lip-sync scandal.

Can Olivia Dean Win Best New Artist?

British star Olivia Dean emerges as a serious contender for Best New Artist, her joyful pop songs resonating well with audiences and critics alike.

Addressing Political Themes and K-Pop Recognition

Politics is likely to be a prominent theme this year, especially following critical remarks from artists regarding immigration policies. The conversation around K-pop continues as Rosé of Blackpink could potentially break barriers by becoming the first K-pop artist to win a Grammy.

How to Watch the Grammys

The ceremony kicks off with a premiere event in Los Angeles at 12:30 PM PST, followed by the main show at 5 PM PST. Though UK fans are left without a direct broadcast option, live streams on platforms like YouTube can keep audiences engaged.

This year's Grammy Awards are set to be historic, not just for the artists participating but for the greater conversation they spark within the music industry and beyond.