The nominees for the 2026 Grammy Awards were announced, and typically, there are some not-so-forgotten artists that were left out of the list. These ‘snubs’ continue to be talked about each year by fans and critics alike – who deserved the nomination and who didn’t? Now, on to some of the biggest names that missed a chance to win a Grammy this year.
The Weeknd
One of the most chilling and strange omissions this year will surely be The Weeknd. Despite having had one of the best-selling albums of 2025 and carrying huge hits such as ‘Timeless,’ the talented artist found himself shut out of any nomination. The letdown was felt by fans who voiced their disappointment over the absence of his nomination mainly from Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album.
Lorde
Another artist who was missed by the Grammys for a nomination is none other than Lorde, for the success of her fourth album, ‘Virgin.’ Previously, Lorde had won a Grammy for Song of the Year, but this time she received no nominations, leaving the fans to wonder what the Recording Academy was up to ignoring such a gifted artist.
Benson Boone
Benson Boone, recognized for his hit, “Beautiful Things,” was yet another artist who missed the nomination this year. Despite having been nominated for Best New Artist in 2025, Boone was nowhere to be seen this time. Fans found his absence baffling, following his striking presentation at last year’s big ceremony.
Elton John and Brandi Carlile
Even with the likes of Elton John and Brandi Carlile, nothing was spared from the snub list this year. The big upset for the fans was that the much-anticipated ‘Who Believes in Angels?’ album never made it into any major category, save for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. Otherwise, most felt it deserved more recognition.
The one with the big hit ‘Sally, When the Wine Runs Out’ in 2025, RPG Model, was also denied a Grammy nomination. Despite speculations that he might at least get a nod for Best New Artist or in one of the pop categories, he came home empty-handed. But there is a silver lining for the fans with the knowledge that he is already hard at work on a new album.
On February 1, 2026, Grammy Awards will be broadcast live from the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. This year’s nominees reignited the music world, with names like Plaqueboymax and Justin Bieber making waves. The two artists are breaking barriers as streamers who have shown that they could compete in the falling into so many top music categories once only reserved for mainstream stars.
The Recording Academy’s nomination process is so strict that only the most deserving must make it through. Final round voting will decide the winners of various categories, selected carefully by voting members. The very presence of online creators like Plaqueboymax illustrates the way music continues to seep away from the restrictions of traditional barriers, helping to connect digital platforms with mainstream ones.
As fans are eagerly awaiting the star-studded performances at the forthcoming ceremony, it seems clear the 2026 Grammys will represent a celebration of talent from all corners of the music world. Whether you feel for the ever-established icons or stand firm with the up-and-coming artists, there’s much to get excited about on this, one of the biggest nights in music.
