Historic Grammy Announcements
When the 2025 Grammy Awards nominees were announced last autumn, the music industry was all abuzz with the excitement and expectation. The main artist on the rise in the musical world was Beyoncé, and the novelty of her making history together with her spouse Jay-Z is new. She managed to win this feat through her 11 nods for her November 2024 album Cowboy Carter that was a traditional country album but rather country-influenced, that picked up nominations for Stellar Categories which are:
Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year. Before this, the talented singer had garnered 99 nominations in all throughout her long and successful career. The renowned singer still has the gifted memory of 32 gramophones already, which is the highest total so far that any artist has ever won at the Grammy Awards. This new level of achievement is an ever-enhancing sign that Beyoncé still reigns supreme through her tireless work ethic and focus.
Although Beyoncé’s record-breaking achievement drew considerable attention, several other artists had plenty of reasons to rejoice upon seeing their names on the nomination list. Billie Eilish, Post Malone, Charli XCX, and Kendrick Lamar all walked away with seven nods each, underscoring their talent and relevance in the music scene. Additionally, the ceremony promises an exciting evening for Grammy darling Taylor Swift, who received six nominations. Alongside Swift, two emerging powerhouses, Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan, also made waves by scoring six nods for their first time at the Grammys. These revelations brought forth even more intrigue, as fans eagerly began speculating on who would ultimately triumph in each category.
The Quest for Album of the Year

Although this year’s 67th Annual Grammy Awards are scheduled for Sunday, February 2, at the Los Angeles Crypto.com Arena, the most evaluating query on almost every music lover’s mind is: will Beyoncé eventually clinch the Album of the Year? Despite her many accolades, including the highest total of Grammy wins, the top album prize has continued to slip through her grasp in previous seasons. Her captivating 2024 release, Cowboy Carte, has already achieved extensive acclaim, and it stands as a powerful contender. Still, the competition in this category is fierce, so her path to victory will not be without its challenges. Nonetheless, many observers believe that this might be the year she adds that long-sought-after trophy to her collection
Although the quest for Album of the Year is especially captivating. The other important awards come in categories like Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist. The very sight of musicians like Billie Eilish, Post Malone, and Taylor Swift stating their presence in multiple categories, only tells us of the wide music expanse that the Grammys want to illustrate. At the same time, the contestant field is extended by artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan who, actually, bring a breath of freshness to the entire game. All this makes the Recording Academy, in a way, they are keeping their finger on the pulse of rising talent.
The Awardist Podcast Deep Dive
In the midst of all this anticipation, fans and critics alike are eager to hear deeper discussions and detailed predictions. Conveniently, The Awardist podcast addresses these very topics and delves into the nominees’ chances in the Big Four categories. Hosts and guests share insights, examine trends, and make educated guesses about who might emerge victorious. The podcast also explores personal reactions to the fact that Beyoncé is now just one nomination away from hitting triple-digit nods, highlighting her incredible consistency in a fast-changing industry. Music lovers everywhere can tune in to find out who might triumph on the big night and how the conversation surrounding the Grammys continues to evolve.
The excitement builds as the date draws near. Fans from around the world anticipate dazzling performances, surprising upsets, and heartfelt acceptance speeches. Despite the fanfare, the main question still is whether Beyoncé can finally bag the Album of the Year award besides the urgent issues of who will be the winner of the Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist categories. Great music performances have always been the most anticipated parts of the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, especially with the long list of likely “upsets” and the potential of new music to turn into iconic classics. Without any doubts, the activity will be inscribed in history, and the fans shall be discussing the results even after the final curtain call.
Best New Artist Lineup

The 2025 Grammy Best New Artist category fighting the battle, ironically, did not miss the fact that diversity was its most powerful resource and the results of the nominees’ work in the year before were so numerous. The artists and their songs like Benson Boone, Chappell Roan, Doechii, Khruangbin, Raye, Sabrina Carpenter, Shaboozey, and Teddy Swims made the ending moves of the category absolutely inconsequentially significant respectively.
Without a doubt, each artist brought a unique aspect to the music scene, and the varying styles of these artists have amused the critics, the fans, and the industry professionals. Yet, while all of these nominees experienced banner years, one of them, Shaboozey, achieved a milestone worthy of special mention. His track “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” tied a record by sitting at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for a staggering 19 weeks. That remarkable achievement alone shows how competitive this category truly is and why predicting the winner can be both exciting and nerve-racking.
However, despite everyone’s accomplishments, the race for Best New Artist appears to boil down to two standout contenders: Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan. They completely owned 2024, dominating music festivals, grabbing endless headlines, and ascending the charts with impressive speed. Carpenter’s slick, ear-catching single “Espresso” was everywhere, while Roan’s infectious and liberating “Good Luck, Babe!” caught fire, prompting critics to declare them fierce rivals in the race for the so-called “Song of the Summer.” Both songs managed to cling to the top of radio playlists, earning widespread admiration for their catchy melodies and confident lyrical themes.
A Spotlight on Roan vs. Carpenter
When it comes to these two pop heavyweights, fans and industry figures have debated whether either is truly new. After all, both artists have been releasing music for several years. However, Chappell Roan’s most recent release, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, is technically her first full-length album. Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter’s latest record, Short n’ Sweet, marks her sixth official album. Carpenter may have finally earned mainstream acclaim with “Espresso,” prompting many to accept her pop credentials, but Roan’s meteoric success seemed to materialize overnight. By blending an artsy edge with a more commercial pop sound, Roan quickly became a sensation whose vulnerability about navigating fame resonated deeply with audiences across the globe.
Even though Carpenter is a former Disney star whose evolution has been ongoing, her step into this era of recognition has felt decidedly fresh. On the other hand, Roan’s breakthrough had the aura of an instant phenomenon, enticing curious music lovers to discover the depth of her artistry. Both women demonstrated impressive growth during 2024, challenging expectations and displaying a hunger for experimentation that’s vital in the modern pop landscape. Their personal stories of ambition, hard work, and sudden notoriety brought them legions of new fans who appreciate relatable narratives and catchy tunes.
The Big Question: Who Wins?
Ultimately, the Grammys have a history of surprising upsets, even when it comes down to seemingly obvious head-to-head battles. In one sense, Best New Artist is the simplest category to forecast if the field narrows to two main contenders. However, in another sense, it’s also the most complex—legacy, timing, and the Recording Academy’s taste all play significant roles in determining who walks home with the trophy. Will it be the artist whose relentless drive finally translated into chart-topping success, or will it be the newcomer whose meteoric rise stunned the industry? Fans of both Carpenter and Roan are eagerly waiting to see if this intense competition leads to a well-deserved Grammy moment for one of them—or possibly a shocking twist if another nominee clinches the prize instead.
No matter which way the votes fall, it’s clear that this year’s Best New Artist category is bursting with energy and creativity. Benson Boone, Doechii, Khruangbin, Raye, Shaboozey, and Teddy Swims have each forged their own distinct paths, and they remain strong contenders capable of pulling off an upset. Nevertheless, the main storyline revolves around two artists riding enormous waves of momentum. Whether it is Sabrina Carpenter’s immaculate skill in making pop music or the beautiful evolution of Chappell Roan, the energy they infuse in the genre is a guarantee of the fact that they will influence the upcoming artists. The vibrant and bold approach has turned both of them into outstanding artists who have shown that a multitude of visions can be the driving force of the music world while still being able to captivate people in the fast-paced, ever-changing world of music.
Song of the Year

The Song of the Year category at the upcoming Grammys features a collection of tracks that captivated both music critics and the listening public. The nominees include Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ’Em,” Billie Eilish’s “Birds of a Feather,” Chappell Roan’s “Good Luck, Babe!,” Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars’ “Die With a Smile,” Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please,” Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” and Taylor Swift featuring Post Malone’s “Fortnight.” Each track tells a story of its own, and each has carved out a distinct spot in 2024’s musical landscape. This diverse pool of artists highlights everything from chart-topping, high-energy pop singles to more experimental or boundary-pushing pieces that took listeners on unique journeys. Thanks to this rich variety, predicting which contender will ultimately score the trophy is no simple task.
Although this field is fiercely competitive, one standout track is “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” by Shaboozey. Remarkably, it dominated the charts for such a lengthy period that the Recording Academy has had no choice but to acknowledge its success. Shaboozey even made history as the first Black male artist to hold the No. 1 spot on both Billboard’s Hot 100 and Hot Country Songs charts at the same time. That said, there might be a dilemma for more traditional or “stuffy” voters who may feel unsure about giving top honors to a twangy drinking anthem that interpolates a 2004 rap single. The record’s genre-blending appeal could either be its biggest strength or the very thing that stands in its way when voters are casting their ballots. Still, Shaboozey’s presence in this category signals a major shift in how the Grammys respond to boundary-crossing songs.
Kendrick Lamar’s Controversy
However, Shaboozey’s success is not the only storyline generating buzz. Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” has been lauded by numerous critics, many of whom named it the best song of year 2024. The track’s nimble flow and intense lyrical content shook listeners with its scorching commentary and direct callouts. Yet, some question whether the Recording Academy is prepared to reward a diss track containing an incendiary phrase like “certified pedophile” when awarding a Song of the Year Grammy. Historically, the Grammys have recognized controversial works, but they’ve also shown caution with material that might incite polarizing reactions. This leaves “Not Like Us” in a curious position: championed by many critics, but also facing potential roadblocks from more conservative voting blocs who might balk at such explosive content.
Meanwhile, Taylor Swift, teamed up with Post Malone for “Fortnight,” adding to the complexity of the category. In a surprising twist, Swift has never walked away with a Song of the Year win, even though she has received eight previous nominations in that particular field. Despite her massive successes across other categories, this top songwriting honor has consistently evaded her. Still, “Fortnight” didn’t have the staying power some fans anticipated; it packed a memorable punch in the short term but fizzled out just as quickly. That ephemeral impact might be enough to keep it from clinching the prize, especially when lined up against songs with longer-lasting cultural footprints. Even so, observers of Swift’s career know better than to dismiss her outright, since she’s remained an award-season favorite for many years.
Fresh Vs. Familiar
Another captivating twist is the presence of Chappell Roan’s “Good Luck, Babe!”, which some believe is the freshest and most interesting option in the entire lineup. The track demonstrates a newer artist’s ability to fuse bold production with irresistible hooks, an approach that resonates with fans seeking innovative pop. However, the Recording Academy’s history often favors more established artists or songs with a proven track record, elevating tried-and-true formulas over novel experimentation. This pattern of honoring the familiar has worked in Billie Eilish’s favor before, and might do so again. While “Good Luck, Babe!” could certainly claim the trophy on the merits of its ingenuity, “novelty” sometimes loses to the comforting reliability of bigger names, as has happened time and time again in Grammy lore.
When it comes to a powerhouse name in this lineup, Billie Eilish stands out as a major contender. She has already claimed Song of the Year twice: once for “Bad Guy” and again for “What Was I Made For?”
This establishes her as a clear Grammys favorite. Her latest nominated track, “Birds of a Feather,” exudes a breezy appeal that is reminiscent of a classic pop standard—leading some to label it the “CoverGirl of pop songs.” The quality that makes it easy to listen to also makes it prime Grammy material, since the tune is playful enough for casual fans yet substantial enough to resonate with critics. For these reasons, Eilish might very well glide to another triumph, making this her third time securing the songwriting accolade. As the awards approach, the anticipation reaches a fever pitch, with every fan base rallying around their champion and every critic scrutinizing the final decision to see if the Recording Academy’s choice aligns with the whirlwind that was 2024’s music scene.
Album of the Year Nominees

The race for the coveted Album of the Year title has never been more thrilling, as each artist in this year’s lineup boasts an impressive project that captured both critical acclaim and fan affection throughout the past year. The official nominees include:
- André 3000 — New Blue Sun
- Beyoncé — Cowboy Carter
- Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard and Soft
- Chappell Roan — The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess
- Charli XCX — Brat
- Jacob Collier — Djesse Vol. 4
- Sabrina Carpenter — Short n’ Sweet
- Taylor Swift — The Tortured Poets Department
These albums span a wide array of styles, moving from inventive pop explorations to soulful confessions, boundless genre fusions, and even country-inspired elements. Each nominee found a unique way of connecting with audiences, igniting passionate discussions about who might ultimately claim the top honor. A standout contender is Charli XCX, whose album Brat captured the cultural zeitgeist in a loud, rave-infused, and slime-green whirlwind. Before receiving multiple nominations for this new project, Charli’s only prior Grammy nod was as part of a duo nomination with Iggy Azalea for “Fancy,” and that was over a decade ago. Now, however, she has broken out as a solo powerhouse.
Brat was more than just another record. It dominated the summer of 2024, flooded every social media feed, and transformed the everyday aesthetic with its neon visuals. People declared “Brat was summer. Brat was Kamala. Brat was a way of life.” Despite its impact and influence, there is still a question as to whether the Recording Academy will reward what many see as a futuristic, shape-shifting dance album. After all, while D*ft Punk’s Random Access Memories did secure the big prize in 2014, it was rooted in classic ’70s funk, disco, and ’80s soft rock—styles the Academy loves to celebrate.
Beyoncé: The Elusive Crown
Meanwhile, many are asking if Beyoncé will at last secure the award that has famously slipped through her fingers on multiple previous occasions. Despite her remarkable legacy and critical acclaim, she did not take the top prize for 2013’s self-titled Beyoncé, 2016’s groundbreaking Lemonade, or 2022’s widely adored Renaissance. Considering that track record, fans are loudly questioning if Cowboy Carter might finally bring her the Grammy gold in the marquee category.
This album doesn’t necessarily match the magnetic pull of the three that came before it, yet awarding her the victory this year would effectively honor an artist who has shaped the music landscape more than perhaps any other contemporary figure. Some might view such a win as a well-deserved lifetime achievement for the most influential artist of the 21st century, and others might worry it’s only happening because of repeated past oversights. Nevertheless, many see it as far preferable to a scenario where Taylor Swift rides off with her fifth Album of the Year trophy while Beyoncé remains perpetually overlooked.
Swift’s Potential Fifth Win
Of course, Taylor Swift is also in the running with The Tortured Poets Department, and any time Swift is nominated for Album of the Year, the question arises: could she win again? She already holds four victories in this category, so a fifth would be unprecedented in terms of sheer Grammy dominance. The possibility of Swift sweeping yet another top award looms large, stirring conversations about whether it’s time for a fresh face or a new era of artistry to garner that distinction. Still, her immense popularity and proven track record with Grammy voters can’t be dismissed. There is an undercurrent of tension among music fans who feel that Swift’s continued success in this category overshadows equally deserving contenders. Others, however, believe that her inventive storytelling and evolving production style deserve every accolade they receive.
Eilish’s Calculated Evolution
Another significant name is Billie Eilish, who worked with her brother and longtime collaborator Finneas on her third studio album,Hit Me Hard and Soft. The duo experimented with various tempos and genres on this record, yet maintained a broad pop appeal that makes it more accessible than some of their previous efforts. Many consider Eilish’s vocals on this project to be her most unrestrained to date, and the themes in her writing show a sense of fearlessness and growth that resonates with fans.
She has already won the coveted Album of the Year for When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? and continued her Grammy success with other tracks. Now, the question is whether she and Finneas have tweaked their formula just enough to appeal to Academy voters looking for something that feels fresh but not alienating. It’s entirely possible that this evolution will carry her to the finish line once again.
In the end, each of these eight nominees has a compelling case for why they should claim Album of the Year. André 3000 dazzled with the genre-bending experimentation of New Blue Sun, Chappell Roan delivered an enthralling journey with The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, Jacob Collier continued pushing his sonic boundaries with Djesse Vol. 4, and Sabrina Carpenter solidified her pop credentials on Short n’ Sweet. Still, many observers have their eyes fixed on Charli XCX’s relentless campaign for recognition, Beyoncé’s quest for the one award that keeps evading her, Taylor Swift’s potential five-time coronation, and Billie Eilish’s strategic pivot toward broader accessibility. The Recording Academy could very well throw everyone for a loop and award the trophy to a dark horse candidate, or it could finally bestow the crown on an artist who’s been waiting years for that defining moment.
Record of the Year Contenders
The race for Record of the Year is electrifying this season, offering a range of songs that have made waves across various genres. The eight nominees vying for the trophy include:
- The Beatles — “Now and Then”
- Beyoncé — “Texas Hold ’Em”
- Billie Eilish — “Birds of a Feather”
- Chappell Roan — “Good Luck, Babe!”
- Charli XCX — “360”
- Kendrick Lamar — “Not Like Us”
- Sabrina Carpenter — “Espresso”
- Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone — “Fortnight”
Each track highlights a distinct musical identity, reflecting the artists’ creativity, the producers’ vision, and the audio engineers’ technical finesse. Because Record of the Year honors every facet of a song’s production, it always sparks lively debates about which contender truly excels on all levels.
Despite the usual dominance associated with any Beyoncé single, “Texas Hold ’Em” did not achieve the massive impact that many of her past records have enjoyed. Even though Beyoncé is a formidable contender in almost any category, this particular track does not quite stand out among the rest of this strong lineup. Meanwhile, Charli XCX’s “360” boasts a bold electronic flair that some might find too intricate or too futuristic for the Recording Academy’s more traditional voters.
Moreover, Taylor Swift and Post Malone’s “Fortnight,” along with Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso,” features an ’80s-inspired sheen that makes them catchy and sweet. However, as appealing as these songs are, they may not possess the immediate dazzle that pushes them over the top in a category stacked with high-impact hits. Then, there is Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” which showcases his trademark lyrical brilliance and a brooding, experimental production style. The track delivers ominous beats and a remarkable fusion of instruments, including squawky sax, alongside impossible-to-forget verses from a Pulitzer Prize winner. Yet, some might find its challenging subject matter a bit difficult to champion for such a prominent award.
Newbie, Legends, and Academy Darling
After sifting through each record’s strengths and weaknesses, it seems that the competition narrows down to three primary possibilities: the rising newcomer, the legendary icons, and the Academy favorite. First, there is Chappell Roan, whose star power has grown exponentially. Her song, “Good Luck, Babe!” glistens with a playful and heartfelt narrative about unrequited queer love. This shimmering pop piece features bubbly keyboard flourishes and layers of yodel-like vocals that culminate in a jaw-dropping bridge often hailed as the best since the Golden Gate. Ideally, this track could walk away with the trophy if voters decide to reward an up-and-comer who brings a bright new perspective to the music scene.
Nevertheless, one cannot overlook the historical significance behind The Beatles’ “Now and Then.” This recently unearthed, AI-supported, and undeniably timeless rendition of a 1977 John Lennon demo features contributions from both late and surviving members of the iconic band. With Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr at the helm — plus essential production assistance — the release represents a rare and poignant instance of modern technology reviving a piece of music history. Incredibly, despite their monumental legacy, The Beatles have never won Record of the Year in their storied six-decade career.
Of course, there is also the “Academy darling,” Billie Eilish, who secured this exact honor in 2020 and 2021. Her new single, “Birds of a Feather,” epitomizes the breezy, atmospheric pop that Eilish and her brother-producer Finneas have perfected. Given their consistent success and strong favor with voters, no one should be shocked if she clinches the award once more. Still, some hope the Recording Academy might be inclined to share the glory this time, potentially paving the way for a fresh face or a long-overlooked legend to triumph.
Grammy Night Details
Finally, for those eagerly awaiting the outcome, the 2025 Grammys will be broadcast live on Feb. 2 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT through CBS and Paramount+. Since these nominations cover a variety of genres and stories, viewers can expect unforgettable performances, heartfelt speeches, and perhaps a few surprising twists. Will The Beatles finally claim the award that has eluded them for decades? Will Billie Eilish secure yet another victory? Could Chappell Roan experience a massive breakthrough moment? Or will one of the other powerful contenders seize the trophy? The excitement is building, and everyone will be watching to see how the Recording Academy’s votes unfold. For those interested in every single category and nominee, the full list of Grammy nominations is available for anyone who wants to explore the competition even further.
