The Los Angeles rapper leads the field with his album “GNX” and hit single featuring SZA
Kendrick Lamar’s dominance in the music industry shows no sign of slowing. The Los Angeles rapper received nine nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, marking another milestone in his celebrated career. His name appears in major categories such as Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year, along with recognition in rap and pop collaboration categories.
Lamar’s nominations stem largely from his critically acclaimed album “GNX” and his chart-topping single “Luther” (feat. SZA). The Recording Academy also acknowledged his contributions to collaborations with SZA and the duo Clipse. The nominations follow a year of major achievements, including a Super Bowl halftime show and multiple award wins, further solidifying his influence across genres.
Strong competition among top contenders
The 68th Annual Grammy Awards, scheduled for February 1, 2026, in Los Angeles, will feature strong competition across multiple genres. Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, and Bad Bunny follow Lamar among the top nominees. Gaga secured seven nominations, matching producers Cirkut and Jack Antonoff, while Carpenter and Leon Thomas earned six each. Thomas, 32, who recently achieved his first Billboard Top 10 hit, is also nominated for Best New Artist, alongside KATSEYE, Olivia Dean, The Marías, Lola Young, sombr, Alex Warren, and Addison Rae.
Return of Clipse and new Grammy categories
In the rap field, the Recording Academy celebrated the long-awaited return of Clipse after a 16-year hiatus, awarding the duo five nominations for Let God Sort Em Out. Other notable mentions include Doechii and Tyler, The Creator, who is recognized in both rap and alternative music categories.
This year’s ceremony will feature 95 categories, with two debut additions: Best Album Cover and Best Traditional Country Album, honoring artists such as Bad Bunny, Djo, Wet Leg, Willie Nelson, and Margo Price.
