Grammy Awards 2026: Major Stars Overlooked Despite Multiple Nominations
The 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony on Sunday proved to be a disappointing night for several chart-topping artists who, despite receiving multiple nominations, ultimately left the prestigious event empty-handed. Among the most notable snubs were pop sensations Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Bruno Mars, alongside rising star Chappell Roan.
Sabrina Carpenter's Six Nominations Yield No Wins
Sabrina Carpenter, who had been tipped for success with an impressive six nominations, failed to secure a single award. Her critically acclaimed track 'Manchild' was in contention for both Record of the Year and Song of the Year, while her album 'Man's Best Friend' was nominated for the coveted Album of the Year award. However, these honours were claimed by Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, and Bad Bunny respectively, leaving Carpenter without the recognition many had anticipated.
Justin Bieber and Bruno Mars Also Miss Out
Justin Bieber, nominated in four categories including Album of the Year for his work 'Swag', similarly departed without a Grammy. Meanwhile, Bruno Mars, the veteran performer now aged 40, saw his collaboration with K-pop star Rose on the track 'APT' overlooked in three categories, notably Song of the Year and Record of the Year.
Chappell Roan and Other Notable Oversights
Chappell Roan, nominated for Record of the Year with her hit 'Good Luck Babe' and for Best Pop Solo Performance, was defeated by British newcomer Lola Young in the latter category. The night also proved challenging for other established and emerging talents.
British Artists Experience Mixed Fortunes
Veteran British musician Sir Elton John, despite a storied career with 37 Grammy nominations and five wins, did not add to his collection this year. His collaborations with American singer Brandi Carlile were nominated for Best Song Written for Visual Media and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, but were unsuccessful.
Additionally, up-and-coming girl group Katseye missed out on their first Grammy in two categories, losing Best New Artist to London-born Olivia Dean and failing to secure Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. Fellow British artist PinkPantheress was also overlooked, with her track 'Illegal' and album 'Fancy That' losing out in the Best Dance Pop Recording and album categories to compatriot FKA Twigs.
Electronic Music Nominations Fall Short
In the electronic music sphere, Fred Again was nominated for both Best Dance/Electronic Album and Best Dance/Electronic Recording, yet left the ceremony without any awards, underscoring the competitive nature of this year's Grammys across all genres.
The 2026 Grammy Awards highlighted the unpredictable and fiercely contested landscape of the music industry, where even the most prominent artists can face unexpected setbacks despite significant critical and commercial success.
