The 2026 Grammy nominations are around the corner, scheduled to be revealed on November 7th, 2025. Numerous media outlets and magazines are now reporting their picks for the categories, especially the 4 big ones (Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best New Artist, and Album of the Year). This time, Rolling Stone is giving us their take on the tracks they believe could snag a nomination, and their picks are filled with star power!
As explained by Rolling Stone, while Song of the Year honors composition, Record celebrates performance and production. This means the award goes to the singer/performer and the creators of the instrumental. And this year, the magic spans across genres like pop, hip-hop, and R&B. Let’s break down each possible nominee:
Sabrina Carpenter, “Manchild”
Sabrina Carpenter brings playful energy and country-pop flair to “Manchild,” a tongue-in-cheek anthem that cemented her dominance in 2025’s pop scene.
Playboi Carti & The Weeknd, “Timeless”
The Weeknd’s haunting vocals and Carti’s infectious rap verses, “Timeless” stands as one of the most elegant R&B and hip-hop crossovers this year.
Lady Gaga, “Abracadabra”
Gaga’s “Abracadabra” landed when the world needed her signature drama most. Mixing the singer’s signature style with modern production, Abracadabra became a pop highlight in its own right.
Kendrick Lamar feat. SZA, “luther”
Built around a dreamlike sample of Luther Vandross’ 1982 classic “If This World Were Mine,” this soulful collaboration brings Kendrick’s introspective lyricism and SZA’s smooth vocals.
Chappell Roan, “The Subway”
Chappell Roan has been on a streak with her stand-alone singles, which are expected to be included on an album at some point in her career. This one in particular mixes emotional vocals with heartbreaking lyrics.
Rosé & Bruno Mars, “APT.”
“APT.” is an energetic blend of K-pop and pop-punk. One of 2024’s viral hits, it stands a chance in the category, and it might make Rosé the first Korean Grammy winner.
Tyler, the Creator feat. GloRilla, Sexyy Red, & Lil Wayne, “Sticky”
“Sticky” is a bold, genre-bending explosion. Tyler combines brass and bars with in list of A-list rappers.
Alex Warren, “Ordinary”
A ballad that took the Billboard charts by storm.
Who Will Win: Kendrick Lamar feat. SZA, “luther”
Who Should Win: ROSÉ & Bruno Mars, “APT.”
According to Rolling Stone, Kendrick’s “luther” could secure the win, thanks to its undeniable cultural weight. Meanwhile, “APT.” stands out thanks to its popularity and Internet virality.
