Grammy nominations 2025: Major highlights and buzzworthy surprises

The 2025 Grammy nominations were announced recently, unveiling a comprehensive list of 94 categories. From unexpected snubs to groundbreaking records, here’s an insightful breakdown of this year’s most talked-about moments.

The surprising snubs

Ariana Grande and Post Malone

Despite scoring three nominations, Ariana Grande found herself left out of the top three categories. Similarly, Post Malone was overlooked for Album of the Year. His notable nominations for Record of the Year and Song of the Year are thanks to his feature on Taylor Swift’s “Fortnight” and not his chart-topping hit, “I Need Some Help” with Morgan Wallen.

Taylor Swift’s concert film

It’s baffling for many that Swift’s groundbreaking concert film, The Eras Tour, didn’t earn a nomination for Best Music Film. While her six nominations are impressive, including a nod for “Us” with Gracie Abrams, it’s a significant oversight.

Other unnoticed talents

Artists like Hozier with “Too Sweet”, TikTok sensation Tommy Richman with “Million Dollar Baby”, and critical darlings Vampire Weekend with Only God Was Above Us were entirely snubbed. This extends to influential names like Bad Bunny, Nicki Minaj, Megan Thee Stallion, and several K-pop icons, including Lisa, RM, and Jung Kook.

Women leading the charge

Dominance in major categories

Once again, women are shining in the major categories. Female artists hold six of the eight nominations for both Album of the Year and Record of the Year. This trend continues across categories like Best Pop Solo Performance, Best Pop Vocal Album, Best R&B Performance, and more.

Beyoncé’s unyielding legacy

Beyoncé adds another feather to her cap by receiving nominations across genres including pop, R&B, rock, rap, dance, and now, country. Collaborating with Linda Martell, Beyoncé has enabled Martell’s first-ever Grammy nomination for their joint work on “Spaghetti” from Cowboy Carter.

Female rap voices making waves

Eminent nominees

Despite Nicki Minaj and Megan Thee Stallion being snubbed, other female rappers are making their presence known. Doechii is nominated for Best New Artist alongside *Best Rap Album for Alligator Bites Never Heal and Best Rap Performance for “Nissan Altima.” Additional notable mentions include GloRilla’s “Yeah Glo!” and Cardi B’s “Enough (Miami)”.

Star-studded nominations

The rise of familiar faces

Daniel Radcliffe steps into the Grammy spotlight with a nomination for Best Musical Theater Album for Merrily We Roll Along. Competing alongside him are Alicia Keys and Wayne Brady for their respective projects. Comedian Nikki Glaser continues to capture attention with her nomination for Best Comedy Album, contesting heavyweights like Dave Chappelle and Trevor Noah.

Remembering notable figures

Sadly, the late Matthew Perry and Michelle Williams didn’t make the cut for their work in audiobook narration, with the category favoring nominees like Jimmy Carter, Barbra Streisand, and Dolly Parton.

Memorable live performances and musical resurgence

Muni Long’s viral hit gets a second chance

After a disappointing disqualification, Muni Long capitalized on a live BET Awards performance submission for “Made for Me,” earning her nominations for Best R&B Performance. Her album Revenge, her song “Ruined Me,” and “Make Me Forget” also secured nods.

The unexpected return of André 3000

OutKast’s André 3000 struck Grammy gold with his unique flute album, which is nominated for Album of the Year. Alongside this, his project New Blue Sun secured a spot for Best Alternative Jazz Album.

The enduring legend of John Legend

With 12 Grammys already in his collection, John Legend ventures into new territory with nominations for Best Children’s Music Album and Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella. His deeply personal project My Favorite Dream showcases heartfelt contributions from his family.

Beatles family legacy continues

Honoring the past

The Beatles reign supreme again with two nominations, including one for Record of the Year for their final piece, “Now and Then.” Sean Ono Lennon also continues his family’s tradition with a nod for his work as an art director on the Mind Games re-release.

Kate Bush, an art director to watch

Though previously a three-time Grammy nominee without a win, Kate Bush showcases her artistic versatility with nominations for Best Recording Package and Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package for her work on the Hounds of Love reissue.

The integration of movie soundtracks

Celebration of sound in cinema

This year sees Deadpool & Wolverine honored for revitalizing NSYNC’s “Bye, Bye, Bye,” along with several other music-centric films like Saltburn and The Color Purple. These nominations highlight the blend of cinematic storytelling and musical mastery.

The boy is mine returns

Monica and Brandy, famed for their ’90s duet, collaborate once again on a remix of Ariana Grande’s hit, and the track secures a nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. Grande’s other nominations include Best Pop Vocal Album for Eternal Sunshine.

Welcoming first-time nominees

Newcomers to the Grammy circle

Rising stars such as Willow Smith, Morgan Wallen, and Sabrina Carpenter make their Grammy debuts with nominations in various categories. Willow stands out with her first-ever nomination for Best Arrangement, Instruments, and Vocals.

Female producers making a mark

Breaking a longstanding absence, women are making waves in the non-classical producer of the year category. Alissia earns a nomination, joining the ranks of talented producers like Dan Nigro and D’Mile.

The Grammy nominations for 2025 offer a vibrant reflection of the evolving music industry. From trailblazing women to groundbreaking newcomers, this year’s list promises an unforgettable celebration of musical brilliance.

Stay connected and share these exciting updates with fellow music enthusiasts on social media or through your favorite online communities for the latest in music news and trends.