Discover the top contenders for the 2025 Grammy Best New Artist award, including Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, Ice Spice, and more. Find out who stands out in this highly competitive race.
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2025 Grammy Best New Artist Predictions
The 2025 Grammy race for Best New Artist is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling and competitive in years. With a mix of pop stars, hip-hop pioneers, and genre-defying musicians, this year’s contenders each bring something fresh and unique to the table. From Sabrina Carpenter’s evolution into a pop powerhouse to Chappell Roan’s bold, genre-blending artistry, these artists are all vying for the coveted Best New Artist title. Let’s break down the top contenders and their chances of taking home the Grammy.
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Sabrina Carpenter: Pop Star on the Rise
Sabrina Carpenter’s transformation from a Disney Channel star into a bona fide pop sensation is nothing short of remarkable. Having made a name for herself as a singer-songwriter, Carpenter’s 2022 album emails i can’t send showcased her lyrical growth and emotional depth. The album, filled with hits like “because i liked a boy” and “skinny dipping,” highlighted her transition into more mature themes while maintaining her signature pop sound.
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Carpenter’s music often explores the complexities of relationships, self-reflection, and personal growth. She has successfully distanced herself from her Disney roots, crafting a new image as a serious artist. Her impressive live performances, growing fanbase, and chart success make her a top contender for the Best New Artist award.
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Why She Could Win: Carpenter’s ability to evolve artistically while maintaining commercial appeal positions her as a strong competitor. She has successfully rebranded herself, earning the respect of both fans and critics.
Potential Drawbacks: While she’s proven her ability as a pop artist, some Grammy voters may still associate her with her Disney past, which could influence their decision.
Chappell Roan: The Indie Pop Maverick
Chappell Roan is not just another pop artist—she’s a genre-defying force who has quickly garnered a cult following for her daring, bold music. Roan blends elements of pop, indie, and electronic music, creating songs that are both infectious and meaningful. Her breakout single “Pink Pony Club” became an anthem of self-expression, particularly resonating with the LGBTQ+ community.
Roan’s style is unapologetically flamboyant and confident, both in her music and live performances. Her theatrical stage presence and colorful, imaginative music videos have made her stand out in a crowded pop landscape. With tracks like “Casual” and “My Kink Is Karma,” she tackles themes of identity, love, and empowerment.
Why She Could Win: Chappell Roan’s ability to blend genres and push boundaries gives her an edge in this race. Her growing fanbase and the critical acclaim she’s received for her creative vision make her a serious contender.
Potential Drawbacks: Roan’s music, while unique, may still be considered niche by mainstream Grammy voters who are less familiar with her work.
Ice Spice: Drill Music’s Breakout Star
Rising from the Bronx, Ice Spice has become a major player in the drill music scene. Her viral 2022 hit “Munch (Feelin’ U)” put her on the map, and she has continued to rise ever since. By 2025, she has fully solidified her place in hip-hop with tracks like “In Ha Mood” and “Princess Diana,” where she embraces her signature laid-back delivery and confident attitude.
What sets Ice Spice apart is her ability to bring a fresh female perspective to drill music, a genre often dominated by male artists. Her authenticity and laid-back style have resonated with fans, and her social media presence has only fueled her rapid ascent.
Why She Could Win: Ice Spice’s rise to fame and her distinct voice within the drill genre make her a standout in this category. Her cultural impact and viral success give her a strong chance of taking home the award.
Potential Drawbacks: Drill music may not have the same widespread Grammy appeal as more mainstream genres, which could affect her chances.
Noah Kahan: The Folk-Pop Storyteller
Noah Kahan is a master of blending folk with pop elements, delivering deeply personal and emotionally charged music. His 2024 breakout album Stick Season has struck a chord with listeners, thanks to its heart-wrenching lyrics and soothing melodies. Songs like “Stick Season” and “Northern Attitude” delve into themes of loneliness, self-reflection, and rural Americana, drawing comparisons to artists like Bon Iver and The Lumineers.
Kahan’s intimate, honest storytelling has made him a fan favorite, and his growing popularity positions him as a strong contender for Best New Artist. His ability to tap into universal emotions and his sincere approach to songwriting resonate with listeners of all ages.
Why He Could Win: Kahan’s introspective and relatable music appeals to a broad audience. His folk-pop crossover sound gives him both commercial and critical appeal.
Potential Drawbacks: While Kahan has built a loyal fanbase, his quieter, more introspective style may not have the same broad appeal as more upbeat contenders in the race.
Gracie Abrams: The Queen of Introspective Pop
Gracie Abrams has been steadily building her career, crafting haunting, emotional pop songs that have connected with a wide audience. Her 2023 debut album Good Riddance marked a significant moment in her career, with tracks like “Difficult” and “21” showcasing her vulnerable, introspective lyrics and minimalist production.
Abrams’ music, often referred to as “sad pop,” has drawn comparisons to artists like Billie Eilish, but she’s carved out her own niche in the world of moody, emotionally driven pop. Her deeply personal lyrics about mental health, relationships, and self-discovery have resonated with fans who appreciate her raw honesty.
Why She Could Win: Abrams’ lyrical depth and emotional vulnerability make her stand out in a field dominated by upbeat pop. Her authenticity and relatable themes give her a strong chance of capturing voters’ hearts.
Potential Drawbacks: Her introspective and melancholic style may not appeal to voters who favor more commercially accessible, upbeat music.
Fletcher: Pop’s Heartbreak Heroine
Fletcher has been on a steady rise with her anthemic breakup songs and empowering message. Known for her hit singles like “Undrunk” and “Becky’s So Hot,” Fletcher’s ability to write relatable, gut-wrenching songs about love and heartache has earned her a loyal following. Her music blends pop with rock and electronic elements, creating a distinct sound that has resonated across different fanbases, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
Fletcher’s raw, unapologetic lyrics and powerful voice make her a pop force to be reckoned with. Her live performances are known for their energy and emotional intensity, further proving that she’s a dynamic artist capable of captivating large audiences.
Why She Could Win: Fletcher’s sharp songwriting and strong vocal performances make her a standout contender. Her wide appeal, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, could help her secure the Best New Artist award.
Potential Drawbacks: While Fletcher has a dedicated fanbase, her mainstream recognition may not be as strong as some of the other nominees.
Other Contenders to Watch
- PinkPantheress: With her lo-fi, nostalgic sound, PinkPantheress has become one of the most unique voices in pop. Her tracks blend 2000s UK garage influences with hyperpop, creating a sound that feels both retro and futuristic.
- GloRilla: Known for her gritty, raw approach to hip-hop, GloRilla has quickly made a name for herself in the rap world. Her no-holds-barred style and unfiltered lyrics have earned her critical acclaim.
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FAQs: About 2025 Grammy Best New Artist
Who are the top contenders for the 2025 Grammy Best New Artist?
Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, Ice Spice, Noah Kahan, Gracie Abrams, and Fletcher are among the frontrunners for the 2025 Grammy Best New Artist category. Each artist brings their unique sound and style to the competition, making it one of the most exciting races.
How does the Grammy voting process work for Best New Artist?
The voting process for the Grammy Best New Artist involves members of the Recording Academy, who nominate and vote for artists based on their achievements, musical impact, and overall artistry. The first round narrows down the list, and the final voting decides the winner.
What genres are represented in the 2025 Best New Artist race?
The 2025 Best New Artist category showcases a wide variety of genres, from pop and folk to drill and hip-hop. Artists like Ice Spice represent drill music, Noah Kahan embodies folk-pop, and Sabrina Carpenter and Gracie Abrams bring mainstream pop into the mix.
Is Sabrina Carpenter considered the favorite for Best New Artist?
Sabrina Carpenter is one of the top contenders, thanks to her evolution as a pop artist and her critically acclaimed album emails i can’t send. However, the competition is fierce, and it’s hard to predict the outcome.
What makes Chappell Roan stand out in this category?
Chappell Roan’s bold, genre-blending style and her ability to resonate with niche audiences, particularly the LGBTQ+ community, make her a unique contender. Her theatrical performances and creative vision have helped her gain critical acclaim.
How does Ice Spice’s drill music fit into the Grammy’s traditional categories?
Ice Spice represents a fresh voice in the drill music scene, a genre that has been gaining popularity. While drill music isn’t typically a mainstream Grammy favorite, her cultural impact and viral success give her a solid chance in this race.
What are the chances of Noah Kahan winning Best New Artist?
Noah Kahan has captivated audiences with his introspective folk-pop music, particularly through his album Stick Season. His storytelling and emotional depth appeal to a broad audience, giving him a strong shot at the award.
Is there a history of hip-hop artists winning Best New Artist at the Grammys?
Yes, several hip-hop artists have won Best New Artist at the Grammys, including Megan Thee Stallion and Chance the Rapper. Ice Spice and GloRilla could continue this trend in 2025, bringing their distinct hip-hop styles into the race.
What role do live performances play in the Best New Artist category?
Live performances play a crucial role in establishing an artist’s credibility. Artists like Fletcher and Chappell Roan are known for their dynamic stage presence, which can elevate their chances of winning the award.
How has the Best New Artist category evolved over the years?
The Best New Artist category has become more diverse, with artists from various genres and backgrounds being recognized. In recent years, the Grammys have made efforts to include more emerging voices and contemporary sounds, reflecting changes in the music industry.
Who are the top contenders for the 2025 Grammy Best New Artist award?
The top contenders include Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, Ice Spice, Noah Kahan, Gracie Abrams, Fletcher, PinkPantheress, and GloRilla. Each artist brings a unique sound and style to the competition.
What makes Sabrina Carpenter a strong contender for Best New Artist?
Sabrina Carpenter’s evolution from a Disney star to a mature pop sensation with her critically acclaimed album emails i can’t send has made her a standout in the Best New Artist race. Her catchy hits and emotional depth have resonated with fans and critics alike.
Why is Chappell Roan gaining attention for the 2025 Grammys?
Chappell Roan’s genre-blending music, bold performances, and hit single “Pink Pony Club” have garnered her a strong following. Her unique approach to pop and indie-electronic sounds makes her a distinctive force in this year’s competition.
How has Ice Spice emerged as a leading contender?
Ice Spice’s rise in the drill music scene with viral hits like “Munch (Feelin’ U)” has made her a standout in hip-hop. Her fresh perspective and authenticity have earned her widespread attention.
What is Noah Kahan’s appeal as a Best New Artist nominee?
Noah Kahan’s folk-pop sound and heartfelt storytelling, showcased in his album Stick Season, have captured listeners’ emotions. His introspective lyrics and universal themes have made him a strong candidate for the award.
What sets Gracie Abrams apart in the Best New Artist category?
Gracie Abrams’ raw, introspective songwriting and emotional depth in her debut album Good Riddance have resonated deeply with fans. Her “sad pop” style draws comparisons to Billie Eilish but remains uniquely her own.
How has Fletcher gained recognition for the 2025 Grammys?
Fletcher’s powerful breakup anthems like “Undrunk” and “Becky’s So Hot” have built her a dedicated fanbase. Her raw, emotional songwriting and vocal power have made her a key player in the Best New Artist race.
Why is PinkPantheress considered a unique contender?
PinkPantheress stands out for her lo-fi, nostalgic sound that blends UK garage influences with modern hyperpop. Her innovative, retro-futuristic approach has made her one of the most interesting nominees.
What makes GloRilla a strong candidate for Best New Artist?
GloRilla’s gritty, unapologetic style in the rap scene has earned her critical acclaim. Her raw lyrics and unfiltered approach to hip-hop make her a notable contender for the 2025 Grammy Best New Artist.
When will the winner of the 2025 Grammy Best New Artist be announced?
The winner of the 2025 Grammy Best New Artist award will be announced at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, typically held in early February.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Grammy Best New Artist category is packed with talent, making this one of the most competitive years in recent memory. Each artist brings something unique to the table, whether it’s Sabrina Carpenter’s polished pop sound, Chappell Roan’s fearless genre-blending, or Ice Spice’s domination of the drill scene. As Grammy voting approaches, it’s anyone’s guess who will come out on top, but one thing is clear: all of these artists are set to make an even bigger impact on the music industry in the years to come.
