The Grammys have wrapped, the trophies have been handed out, and one question always seems to follow every year. Who exactly are the Best New Artist contenders everyone keeps talking about?
For longtime music fans, some of the names feel familiar. For others, the category can feel like a sudden introduction to artists who appeared overnight. That confusion is part of what makes Best New Artist one of the most fascinating and unpredictable awards at the Grammys.
Here’s a look at the eight artists that were nominated in this year’s Best New Artist category and what makes each of them stand out.
Addison Rae
Once known primarily as a social media personality, Rae has pushed hard into music. Her debut album Addison marked a major turning point, and she’s earned her first Grammy nomination thanks to the widespread attention her work has attracted.
Alex Warren
Warren’s music caught fire in 2025. His album You’ll Be Alright, Kid and breakout single “Ordinary” drew massive streaming numbers, helping him transition from online popularity to serious music industry recognition.
KATSEYE
This multinational girl group came together in an unconventional way. Built from a global talent search, KATSEYE blends cultural influences and catchy pop hooks, earning buzz and a Grammy nod in the process.
Leon Thomas
Thomas has been gaining major respect from critics and industry insiders. His work on Mutt, along with other standout material, has not only secured him a Best New Artist nomination but also attention in other Grammy categories.
Lola Young
UK singer-songwriter Lola Young has built a devoted audience with her soulful voice and thoughtful lyrics. 2025 saw her gaining traction with features on popular playlists and strong touring support that helped elevate her profile.
Olivia Dean
Another British nominee, Dean has drawn praise for her rich vocal style and genre-crossing appeal. Her growing international presence makes her one of the more critically acclaimed names in the category.
Sombr
Sombr enters the Best New Artist race with his debut album I Barely Know Her. His fresh sound has connected with fans and critics alike, positioning him as one of the more intriguing newcomers on this diverse list.
The Marías
The LA-based band has carved out a distinctive niche with dreamy, genre-blurring music. Their success with singles like “Back to Me” helped land them a place among the year’s most talked-about new artists.
What sets this year’s Best New Artist category apart is just how different each nominee’s path has been. Some are mainstream chart breakers, others are critical darlings, and others still have built dedicated followings through streaming and cultural impact. That blend makes picking a favorite nearly impossible, but it also makes this category one of the most exciting to watch.
Whether they win or not, being nominated at the Grammys for Best New Artist can lift careers to new heights, and this year’s class illustrates just how varied the road to musical breakthrough can be.
Stay tuned, when the Grammys air early February, the Best New Artist announcement might just be one of the night’s most talked-about moments.
