Awards season is ever looming, be it for film, television or in the case of this article, music.
The nominees for the 2026 GRAMMY Awards are set to be announced next week (November 7), but for those who think it’s going to be another Swiftogeddon at next year’s ceremony, you might want to rethink your choices ahead of the nominees announcement.
As it stands, Taylor Swift’s latest album, The Life of a Showgirl, will not be eligible for any awards next year, owing to the eligibility period for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards (2026) ending on August 30. Her album and its lead singles, which were released in early October 2025, missed this official cut-off date by over a month.
This scheduling choice means that The Life of a Showgirl will instead be a top contender and a likely favourite for nominations in the subsequent 69th Annual Grammy Awards (2027) cycle, leading to the multiple four-time Album of the Year winner sitting out the competition—a rare break in her long-running Grammy presence.
But it has still been an incredible (GRAMMY) calendar year for releases; so ahead of next week’s all-important announcement, who do we think are some of the leading contenders to be nominated - and in what category?
Join us as we speculate the 2026 GRAMMY Award nominees, before the official announcement is made next week via livestream on the official GRAMMY website and YouTube channel.
5. Tyler, The Creator (Best Rap Album)
Tyler, The Creator has firmly established himself as an artist who blends critical acclaim with unique genre-bending concepts, a trait highly valued by the Academy. His latest work, Chromakopia, is expected to showcase his complex, innovative production and lyrical evolution, ensuring its place as a top nominee in the Rap and possibly the General categories. | AFP via Getty Images
6. Bad Bunny (Best Música Urbana Album)
As a globally dominant force who has previously earned Album of the Year nods, Bad Bunny is a powerhouse in the Latin field. His latest work, Debí Tirar Más Fotos, is guaranteed to secure a spot and likely win the Best Música Urbana Album category, given his continuing cultural and commercial supremacy. | Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Coachella
7. Contributed
Charli XCX’s Brat was hailed by critics as a ground-breaking moment in contemporary pop and electronic music, sparking widespread cultural conversation. This combination of commercial impact and critical praise makes the highly influential and innovative album a certainty for nomination in the Alternative Music Album category.
8. Tyla (Best New Artist)
The South African singer Tyla had a genuine international breakthrough with her hit single 'Water,' quickly establishing her as a global star whose sound blends pop and Amapiano. Her success, including major chart placements and awards recognition, positions her as a formidable contender for a Best New Artist nod, representing the expanding global reach of the category. | AFP via Getty Images