2026 Grammy Nominations Reveal an Open Field as Major Stars Sit Out

The 2026 Grammy Award nominations are officially here. The Recording Academy announced its picks across all categories in a livestreamed event. The ceremony will take place on February 1, 2026, in Los Angeles.

This year’s race is wide open without recent powerhouses like Taylor Swift and Adele in the running. Their absence creates a major opportunity for a new class of artists to claim the spotlight.

New Contenders and Category Changes Define the Race

Kendrick Lamar leads the pack after his dominant 2025 Grammy performance. His new album, GNX, is a strong contender for major awards. According to Reuters, the competition also includes standout years from Sabrina Carpenter, SZA, and Lorde.

Artists like Lady Gaga and Bad Bunny are also in the mix. Tyler, the Creator has two eligible albums, increasing his chances. Producer Jack Antonoff is involved in several nominated projects, extending his influential streak.

Industry Shifts and Ceremony Details

The 2026 awards introduce the new Best Album Cover category. Best Country Album has also been split into two distinct awards. This reflects the Academy’s effort to better represent diverse musical styles.

The show will broadcast live on CBS and stream on Paramount+. The absence of country star Morgan Wallen, who withheld his album, further shapes the competitive landscape. This opens the door for other genres to dominate the night.

The 2026 Grammy nominations have set the stage for one of the most unpredictable ceremonies in recent memory. With fresh faces and new categories, the event promises significant surprises. The music world will be watching closely on February 1.

Info at your fingertips

Who is not eligible for the 2026 Grammys?

Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Adele did not release new material during the eligibility window. Country artist Morgan Wallen also chose not to submit his album for consideration.

What are the new Grammy categories for 2026?

The Recording Academy added the Best Album Cover award. It also split the Best Country Album category into Best Contemporary and Best Traditional Country Album.

Where can I watch the 2026 Grammy Awards?

The ceremony will be broadcast live on the CBS Television Network. It will also be available to stream live and on-demand on Paramount+.

Is Kendrick Lamar nominated for the 2026 Grammys?

Yes, Kendrick Lamar is a major contender with his album *GNX*. He is expected to feature prominently across several categories following his success at the 2025 awards.

Why is the 2026 Grammy field considered so open?

The field is open because several perennial winners had no eligible releases. This creates a vacuum that allows many first-time nominees a stronger chance to win.