What was thought to be a year of music drought turned into one of the best years for music in the past decade. The 2025 Grammy eligibility period has been filled with amazing music ranging from the universally loved song “The Subway” by Chappell Roan, to some more dividing opinions on Benson Boone’s album “American Heart.” It’s time to take a look back at the past year and weed out what should and shouldn’t be nominated for the 2026 Grammy’s.

From Sept. 1, 2024 to Aug. 31, 2025, any music that was released during this time period is currently eligible for the 2026 Grammy’s. While there’s a few months until the nominations are announced, there’s still other awards shows, such as the VMA’s and the American Music Awards, that can give audiences a good idea of who’s going to be nominated for each category. So without further ado, here are albums that should be in the running for nominations.

With many fun pop songs, Sabrina Carpenter’s new album, “Man’s Best Friend,” is sure to grab at least a few nominations, especially for the single “Manchild.” This song took the world by storm in June, so it’s sure to snag a nomination for song of the year.

An album fans are hoping to be nominated is “MAYHEM” by Lady Gaga; many fans enjoy how she presents herself during her live performances. Junior O’Reily Dixon commends her stage presence. “Anytime I see any video of her I’m immediately entranced,” Dixon said.

On the flip side, Renee Rapp’s album “BITE ME” was underwhelming for some. While Rapp has a powerful voice, the production and lyricism on this album is very repetitive, leaving the listener unsatisfied. Hopefully in the future Rapp can use her vocal talents and play to her strengths for her next album to create something Grammy worthy.

Another album fans are hoping to snag some nominations is “Wishbone” by Conan Gray. Sophomore Amelia Fido enjoys Gray’s lyricism, saying, “I’d like to refer to him as a lyrical genius.” Gray also has a wide range of production on this album, which is sure to put him in good graces for the nominations.

Only the tip of the iceberg was touched, but there’s so much more music in the running. Perhaps a random curveball will be thrown into the nominations and switch things up, much like the 2023 song of the year winner Bonnie Raitt for “Just Like That.” As for now, we can only hope that our favorite albums and artists will get nominated.