The 2026 Grammy Awards nominations were announced, and while some expected snubs and surprises, others were left completely stunned. The Weeknd, who made a triumphant return to the Grammys stage after a public feud with the Recording Academy, was notably shut out of the nominations despite his recent release, 'Hurry Up Tomorrow'. This album was competing for Album of the Year, while his collaboration with Playboi Carti, 'Timeless', was up for Record of the Year. The Recording Academy CEO, Harvey Mason Jr., addressed The Weeknd's 'vocal criticism' and acknowledged the changes made to the organization's membership, but it seems these efforts didn't translate into nominations for the artist.
Another artist who was largely ignored was Alex Warren, whose massive hit 'Ordinary' spent 10 weeks atop the Hot 100 this year. While he did receive a nomination in the Best New Artist category, his single 'Ordinary' failed to score any nominations in the general field or genre categories. This trend of snubs and surprises continued with other artists, including Lorde, Reneé Rapp, Benson Boone, and Gracie Abrams, who were all expected to receive nominations but were left out.
One of the most surprising nominations was given to Timothée Chalamet for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media for his performance in 'A Complete Unknown'. This nomination puts him in the running for a Grammy before an Oscar, but he faces stiff competition from KPop Demon Hunters, Sinners, Wicked, and F1. Another surprise was Tyler, The Creator's 'Don't Tap the Glass', which scored a nod in the Alternative category alongside more rock-leaning acts like Wet Leg and The Cure. Turnstile, a hardcore band, also made a strong showing with their latest album 'Never Enough', earning five Grammy nominations, making them among the most nominated acts of the year.
Despite the snubs and surprises, the Grammy nominations also highlighted some of the year's biggest hits and most talented artists. The Weeknd, Alex Warren, and other artists may have been left out, but their music continues to resonate with fans and inspire new generations of musicians. As the Grammy Awards approach, the conversation around these nominations will undoubtedly spark debate and discussion, with fans and critics alike weighing in on the snubs and surprises of the year.
