LOS ANGELES, February 15, 2026 — Olivia Dean took home the Best New Artist Grammy at the 68th annual awards show, a win that’s sparked debate among music fans about who truly deserved the honor.
A Night of Wins and Questionable Choices
The 68th Grammys delivered some expected victories alongside a few head-scratching decisions, leaving many to wonder if TikTok fame is overshadowing genuine artistry.
- Olivia Dean’s win for Best New Artist was met with mixed reactions, with some praising her talent and others questioning the influence of TikTok on the awards.
- Kendrick Lamar’s victory for Best Rap Album drew criticism, with many arguing Tyler, the Creator’s CHROMAKOPIA was more deserving.
- Billie Eilish’s win for Song of the Year was deemed a “pity win” by some, who felt other songs released in prior years were more impactful.
- A perceived snub of a female artist for her sexually liberated expression ignited a conversation about double standards within the music industry.
Best New Artist: Talent vs. TikTok
The concept of Addison Rae performing Gnarly alongside music legends like Cher and Lauryn Hill felt jarring, highlighting a perceived gap in artistry between generations. While Rae’s performance was energetic, some believe Olivia Dean’s win was a testament to pure talent, unreliant on theatrics. Dean wasn’t “muted,” as some nominees were, a subtle nod to her commanding stage presence. Though Dean emerged victorious, Alex Warren also garnered support, with one observer noting his impressive vocal ability after witnessing a live performance two months prior. However, a headset malfunction during his Grammy performance may have impacted his chances. Many agreed the nominees felt “TikTok coded,” questioning whether the Grammys had become the “TikTok Awards.”
Best Rap Album: A Controversial Crown
The decision to award Kendrick Lamar Best Rap Album is proving divisive. While acknowledging Lamar’s brilliance, critics argue his recent work isn’t his strongest, and Tyler, the Creator’s CHROMAKOPIA was a more impactful and meticulously crafted album. Songs like Balloon (feat. Doechii) and Like Him (feat. Lola Young) dominated social media feeds, demonstrating the album’s cultural resonance. The album’s cover art was the only award it received, a slight that many find unjust, especially considering its influence on Tyler’s subsequent work, DON’T TOUCH THE GLASS. As Trevor Noah pointed out, there may be a reluctance to criticize a figure like Kendrick Lamar.
Song of the Year: Timing is Everything?
Was a song released in Spring 2024 the right choice for Song of the Year in 2026? Billie Eilish’s WILDFLOWER, while lyrically strong, may have already had its moment. Some argue that Bad Bunny’s DtMF or Sabrina Carpenter’s Manchild were more culturally significant songs of the year and deserved recognition. The win felt like a “pity win” to some, despite Eilish’s undeniable talent and dedicated fanbase.
A Snub Rooted in Sexism?
The biggest disappointment of the night, for some, was the perceived snub of a female artist whose work was overlooked due to her open expression of sexuality. This pattern, reminiscent of the treatment of Ariana Grande’s “Thank U Next” album in 2019, highlights a troubling double standard within the industry, where women are often penalized for embracing their sexuality. The Academy, according to some, should be ashamed.
Looking Ahead
Despite the controversies, there were wins to celebrate. Bad Bunny was recognized for Album of the Year, and Olivia Dean took home Best New Artist. With promising artists like Tate McRae, Malcolm Todd, and Cardi B on the horizon, next year’s awards show promises to be even more competitive.
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