2026 Grammy Nominations Unveil Stellar Alternative Music Lineup

The Recording Academy has announced the nominees for the 2026 Grammy Awards. The alternative music categories feature a compelling mix of returning favorites and fresh faces. Artists like Bon Iver, The Cure, and Wet Leg lead the pack this year.

This year’s nominations highlight both enduring legacy and contemporary innovation in the music industry. According to sources like the Associated Press, the selections reflect a broad spectrum of sound within the alternative genre.

Bon Iver and Wet Leg Continue Grammy Success Streak

Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon is nominated for Best Alternative Album for “SABLE, fABLE”. He also secured a nod for Best Alternative Music Performance for the single “Everything Is Peaceful Love”. Vernon is a well-established figure at the awards.

Wet Leg could repeat their 2023 sweep of the alternative categories. Their sophomore album, “Moisturizer”, has earned them another strong position. Their continued recognition signals their lasting impact on the modern music scene.

Veteran Artists and Genre-Blurring Acts Make Their Mark

The Cure received two nominations for their first album in 16 years, “Songs of a Lost World”. This brings their total career Grammy nominations to four. Robert Smith and his band are celebrated for their influential return.

Baltimore hardcore band Turnstile has songs nominated across three different genre categories. Their album “Never Enough” is competing in rock and alternative fields. This demonstrates the evolving and blending nature of modern music genres.

The 2026 Grammy nominations showcase a dynamic and diverse year for alternative music. This lineup promises a highly competitive ceremony. The final results will be eagerly awaited by music fans worldwide.

Info at your fingertips

Who is nominated for Best Alternative Album?

Nominees include Bon Iver for “SABLE, fABLE”, The Cure for “Songs of a Lost World”, and Wet Leg for “Moisturizer”. The category also features other notable artists from the alternative scene. The full list is available on the official Grammy website.

How many Grammy nominations does The Cure now have?

With their 2026 nominations, The Cure now has four career Grammy nominations. All of their nominations have been within the Best Alternative Album category. They have yet to win the award.

Which artist has nominations in multiple genre categories?

Turnstile has songs nominated in three different categories. They are up for Best Alternative Music Performance, Best Rock Performance, and Best Metal Performance. This highlights their versatile musical style.

Who won the alternative Grammy categories last year?

St. Vincent won both alternative categories at the 2025 Grammy Awards. She took home the trophies for her album “All Born Screaming” and its single “Flea”. Her wins were a major highlight of the ceremony.

Is this Tyler, the Creator’s first non-rap nomination?

Yes, his album “Don’t Tap the Glass” has earned him his first solo nomination outside of a rap category. He is nominated in the alternative field. This marks a significant artistic evolution for the performer.