Kendrick Lamar Leads 2026 Grammy Nominations with Nine Nods; BLACKPINK’s Rose Makes History

Digital Desk

Kendrick Lamar Leads 2026 Grammy Nominations with Nine Nods; BLACKPINK’s Rose Makes History

The 2026 Grammy nominations were announced on Thursday, sparking global excitement ahead of the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. This year’s list celebrates diversity and artistic innovation, with rapper Kendrick Lamar leading the nominations with nine nods across major categories.

Close behind, Lady Gaga secured seven nominations, while Sabrina Carpenter and Bad Bunny received six each. The nominations were unveiled during a livestream hosted by Chappell Roan, KAROL G, Doechii, Sam Smith, and Mumford & Sons.

In a historic moment for K-pop, BLACKPINK’s Rose became the first Korean solo artist ever nominated for a Grammy. Her chart-topping single “APT,” featuring Bruno Mars, earned nominations for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. The achievement marks a significant milestone for Asian representation on the global music stage.

However, the absence of Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl from the list raised eyebrows. Despite being one of the most awarded artists in Grammy history, Swift’s latest album missed eligibility due to its release date October 3, 2025 falling outside the Grammy window, which closed on August 30. The Recording Academy clarified that only works released between August 31, 2024, and August 30, 2025, qualified for consideration.

This year’s nominations also introduced two new categories Best Traditional Country Album and Best Album Cover expanding the scope of recognition for artists and designers alike.

The race for Album of the Year includes Lady Gaga (Mayhem), Kendrick Lamar (GNX), Tyler, the Creator (Chromakopia), Bad Bunny (DeBi TiRAR MaS FOToS), and Sabrina Carpenter (Man’s Best Friend).

With its mix of fresh faces, global representation, and genre-spanning talent, the 2026 Grammys promise a memorable night celebrating the year’s most compelling music.

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