The Grammys are some of the highest honors in music. Every year, millions of people gather around their TVs to watch their favorite artists get recognized for their works. This year’s Grammys were filled with big wins, shocking snubs, and fantastic performances.
Biggest Winner: Kendrick Lamar
2024 was a generational year for Kendrick Lamar. His legendary feud with Drake, culminating in the cultural phenomenon that was “Not Like Us,” kept him in the public eye all year. His surprise album, GNX, dropped in November and became the first rap album in history to have every one of its songs featured on the Billboard Hot 100 charts for three consecutive weeks. Kendrick took home five Grammys for “Not Like Us,” solidifying his ridiculous 2024 success in the history books.
Most Interesting Nomination: André 3000
André 3000 was given a nomination for Album of the Year for his instrumental jazz flute album New Blue Sun. André’s first solo album was worlds away from the rap he got famous for in Outkast, but despite the surprising turn he made a fantastic project. Although he didn’t win, it’s cool to see such an unconventional album get such a major nomination.
Most Important Win: Doechii
Doechii won Best Rap Album for her smash hit Alligator Bites Never Heal. The mixtape dropped right before the Grammy nomination period ended, which makes the win even more impressive.
She became the third woman ever to win the category since it was introduced in 1996. Her win was massively important, and hopefully marks the beginning of the Grammys giving the win to more women.
My Favorite Win: Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan took home the Grammy for Best New Artist. She’s been making music for years, but she exploded in popularity in 2024. I love Chappell and her music, and I’m really happy to see her get such high-profile recognition.
Biggest Snub: Clairo
Clairo’s album Charm was one of my favorite releases of 2024, and I was ecstatic to see it get nominated for Best Alternative Album. Charm marked a shift in Clairo’s sound, with a much jazzier ‘70s lounge feel. She completely deserved the win, but it ultimately went to St. Vincent for All Born Screaming.
Best Outfit: Sierra Ferrell
Country artist Sierra Ferrell showed up looking like King Arthur’s Lady of the Lake, complete with a bejeweled headdress that brings to mind Padmé Amidala from Star Wars. Ferrell took home 4 Grammys in various Americana and Roots-related categories.
Worst Outfit: Jaden Smith
Will Smith’s son Jaden came to this year’s Grammys dressed in a boring black suit, with a headpiece shaped like a castle. I’m not sure what the intention behind Smith’s choice of fashion for the night was, but its effect was confusing and pretty lame.
Overall, this year’s Grammys were a step in the right direction. The awards show has been criticized in the past for bias in voting and some major snubs, but just about every big win this year has been pretty universally agreed upon as deserved. I hope next year’s Grammys are just as exciting as this year’s, and that they keep this forward momentum.
