Before we find out the winners, come along as I deep-dive into the main-category nominations to search for my favourite artists and place my bets — usually with family and friends joining the fun.
Record of the Year
When it comes to Record of the Year, ROSÉ’s “APT” with Bruno Mars could easily win for its unexpected blend of KPop and American Pop — two genres that are widely loved and undeniably trendy — but I believe Kendrick Lamar and SZA would beat them if it was a one-on-one matchup as they execute the softer side of rap with “luther.”
Bad Bunny’s “DtMF” is another strong contender, effortlessly swaying the Latin American music scene and spreading cultural pride with every beat. Then there’s Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild,” a hit among listeners who appreciate her sharp, witty take on male behavior.
Ultimately, as an artist that continuously surprises me with her unique and diverse artistic palette, Gaga has my vote first. Her song “Abracadabra” hooks me from the first beat with its power, strength, and resilience. Dark pop is in, and fans are thrilled to see her leaning back into her transformative, theatrical era.
My bet: “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga
Winner: “luther” by Kendrick Lamar with SZA
Album of the Year
I’ve always rooted for Bieber, and seeing him win a GRAMMY for SWAG would feel like celebrating the fact that he’s made it to the other side of the rough moments he experienced through his career. It would also mark his first win in this category. The album is a testament to how he’s grown and who he’s chosen to become, and I love how he brings his R&B roots back to the surface.
That said, I have a strong feeling Sabrina Carpenter’s Man’s Best Friend is on the winning roster. If I think about what’s dominated radio play and conversation this past year, she definitely takes the cake — especially since winning Best Pop Vocal Album for Short n’ Sweet at the 2025 GRAMMYs.
Kendrick Lamar’s GNX album won’t be far behind in the running to claim the trophy. His track record speaks for itself, but it’s his cultural voice — the truth-telling, the advocacy, the depth — that gives the album a resonance few can match.
My bet: SWAG by Justin Bieber
Winner: DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS by Bad Bunny
Song of the Year
I felt genuinely torn choosing my vote in this category because every song has captured so many people in its own way. “WILDFLOWER” tugs at your emotions from the very first guitar strum. Eilish’s voice is magnificently calming, the lyricism is tender, and sensory in a way that makes me want to replay the song the moment it ends.
I’m equally compelled by Gaga’s “Abracadabra,” with its story-driven lyricism, and Kendrick Lamar’s “luther.” Those two feel neck-and-neck to me, though I find myself favouring Lamar for similar reasons as before — the cultural weight he carries and the way his innovative wordplay and rhythmic versatility shape messages that feel unusually meaningful within the rap genre.
My bet: “WILDFLOWER” by Billie Eilish
Winner: “WILDFLOWER” by Billie Eilish
I’m writing this ahead of the ceremony, but by the time you read it the winners will be known. Did your favourites end up taking home the gramophone, or were you yelling at the screen like I was?
Final Tally: 1/3
Veronica is a Staff Writer at The Cascade. She loves to travel and explore new places, no matter how big or small. She is in her second year at UFV, pursuing the study of Creative
Writing.