The Grammy nominations are here , and with it the realization we have no great pop juggernauts like we did last year. No Charli, no Beyoncé, and no Taylor. Still, there’s a lot of Lady Gaga and Sabrina Carpenter and even a good showing for Justin Bieber — but the big narrative of this year’s noms is the enthusiasm for this past year in rap: Kendrick, Bad Bunny, Clipse, and yes … even Drake. Four of the eight nominees for Album of the Year come from full- or part-time rappers. Beyond AOTY, perhaps the most thrilling category this year is Best New Artist, which boasts new favorites like Addison Rae, KATSEYE, and Lola Young over a certain Sally lover. Before the Academy decides to officially annoy everyone with its winners, let’s review this year’s snubs and surprises.

SURPRISE: Rap’s AOTY

See Full Page