Grammy nominations were released a couple weeks ago. This past year has been quite an amazing one for music. I’m going to give you my picks – not predictions – for the major categories like “Album of the Year” and “Song of the Year.” Let’s get into it.
Album of the Year: “Hit me Hard and Soft” – Billie Eilish
I can’t think of any words to describe “Hit me Hard and Soft” but pure perfection. This list of nominees actually includes many albums that I love but “Hit me Hard and Soft” was not a hard pick for me to make.
Although the album only consists of 10 tracks, it is an incredibly cohesive and comprehensive album. The melding of Billie’s vocals and her brother Finneas’ ethereal production, Billie has one-upped herself yet again, releasing her best album to date.
I have managed to play this album on repeat since its release, not get tired of it at all and even manage to like it even more as time goes on. It’s that good. I would be devastated if this lost its category.
Song of the Year: “Fortnight” – Taylor Swift (feat. Post Malone)
This category is packed full of enjoyable songs, but my pick is “Fortnight” solely due to its songwriting. I personally like “Good Luck, Babe” by Chappell Roan more than “Fortnight” but “Fortnight’s” songwriting outshines all the other nominations in this category.
It’s no secret that the Grammy’s love Taylor Swift so I wouldn’t be surprised if she took home the win in this category. I’m still bitter that she lost “Song of the Year” with “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” in 2023, so hopefully this is her comeback year in this category.
Record of the Year: “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
I’m not a huge rap fan – though I do love Kendrick Lamar. But “Not Like Us,” as annoyed you may be from hearing it nonstop, is an incredible song. Kendrick, as always, has some of the best lyrics in the current rap environment.
But what makes this song stand out as “Record of the Year” is the incredible production. The beat of this song is such an earworm and just sounds so cool. I’d love for a song that’s not pop to win one of the major categories like “Record of the Year.” And I think Kendrick Lamar is just the man to do it.
Best New Artist: Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan is one of the only true best new artists that come to mind. She has truly risen out of nowhere and immediately exploded into stardom. The only other artist on the nominee list I think compares to Chappell is Sabrina Carpenter.
I will even say I like Sabrina more than Chappell, but I’d pick Chappell as the best new artist. I know this category refers more to someone who recently gained fame, but I can’t look over the fact that I’ve been listening to Sabrina for five years so she really doesn’t register in my mind as a new artist.
I just love Chappell’s vibe so much. She’s so unique in today’s age, and is truly a vocal powerhouse who deserves this category.
Best Pop Solo Performance: “Good Luck, Babe!” – Chappell Roan
Here’s another pick for Chappell Roan – and this is just simply because of her incredible vocals. “Good Luck, Babe!” showcases Chappell’s astounding range and incredible tone.
Chappell sings with deep emotion and truly knows how to put on an amazing performance. She has one of the most impressive voices among the new generation and I think will be renowned for it for many years to come.
Best Pop Duo/Group Performance: “Die With a Smile” – Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga
There’s no one who can put on a performance like Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga. This was such a revolutionary power duo who are so different but meld so well. This song reminds me of the powerhouse era of music that was the 2010’s. It would fit right in in the Billboard Hot 100 around that time.
This is a very strong list of nominees with names like Gracie Abrams and Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish and Charli XCX. So, I don’t know how realistic it is that these two take home the win, but they deserve it.
Best Pop Vocal Album: “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” – Chappell Roan
I know I’ve picked a lot from Chappell Roan but she’s just that good. This album is incredible – not good enough for “Album of the Year” – but she definitely showcases the most impressive vocals and emotion from this list.
It’s also incredible that this is her very first album. I can only imagine how impressive the future installations into her discography will be.
Well, there you have it. Those are my picks for the main Grammy categories. Tune in to watch the Grammys live on Feb. 2 on CBS and Paramount+.
