Why Olivia Dean Should Win Best New Artist at the 2026 Grammy Awards
The 2026 Grammy Awards are shaping up to spotlight one of the most exciting Best New Artist lineups in recent memory. This year’s nominees will all take the stage together in a special segment on Music’s Biggest Night, airing Sunday, February 1, live from Los Angeles. It’s a rare moment when a category gets this much breathing room and even rarer when one artist feels destined to rise above the rest. That artist is Olivia Dean . A Category Full of Momentum The Best New Artist slate includes Addison Rae, Alex Warren, KATSEYE, Leon Thomas, Lola Young, Olivia Dean, SOMBR, and The Marías. Each brings a distinct sound and audience, from pop virality to genre-blurring R&B and alternative breakthroughs. The Recording Academy clearly understands the strength of this group, dedicating a full performance segment to the category during the broadcast. But even in a lineup this strong, Olivia Dean stands out quietly and confidently. Olivia Dean’s Case for the Win Olivia Dean’s nomina...