The Grammy nominations always stir up buzz, but few categories bring as much debate as “Best New Artist.” This year, pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter has landed herself a nomination, causing fans and critics alike to ask: How does someone with six albums under her belt qualify as a “new” artist?
In an interview, Grammy boss Harvey Mason Jr. gave some clarity on the criteria that led to Carpenter’s selection and what it truly means to be nominated as a “Best New Artist” in 2024.
How “Newness” Works in the Grammy World
When it comes to the Grammys, “new” doesn’t mean a debut. According to Mason Jr., “Best New Artist” candidates are those who have had a breakthrough year—artists whose music has only recently captured major attention from a broader audience, even if they’ve been around for a while.
“We’re looking at artists who have hit a new career stride,” he explained. “Someone might have been working for years, but if they’re suddenly reaching new levels of success and recognition, that’s when they become a contender for Best New Artist.”
Why Sabrina Carpenter Qualified
Carpenter’s journey in music began with her debut album Eyes Wide Open in 2015, and she’s since released six albums. But it wasn’t until recently, with her album Emails I Can’t Send, that Carpenter saw a major breakthrough on streaming platforms, social media, and charts worldwide. Her recent singles and collaborations have pulled in a fresh wave of fans, a rise that the Grammy board took notice of.
Mason Jr. emphasized that it’s this recent surge that positioned Carpenter as a “new” artist in the eyes of the Grammys. “The exposure and impact she’s experiencing now is much larger,” he said. “We’re seeing the beginning of something major in her career, and that’s why she’s nominated.”
The Evolving Definition of “Best New Artist”
The Grammy Committee has kept this category flexible as music consumption and artist careers have changed drastically with streaming and social media. Artists now reach fans in varied ways, and the Grammys have adjusted accordingly.
“There’s no strict rule that limits an artist based on their album count or the years they’ve been active,” Mason Jr. shared. Instead, the committee examines where the artist stands in their career and how the public responds to their work.
This approach has sparked nominations for other “late bloomers” in the past, including names like Lizzo, who broke through with a Grammy nomination after nearly a decade of making music.
Sabrina Carpenter’s Reaction and Fan Support
Fans have rallied around Carpenter’s nomination, seeing it as recognition for years of dedication. Carpenter shared her excitement on social media, expressing gratitude for the nomination and thanking fans who have supported her since day one.
“It’s surreal,” she wrote. “To have this honor after all these years, especially when it feels like I’m in a new chapter of my career, is really special.”
The nomination validates the power of persistence and reinvention in today’s music landscape. It’s not just about how many albums an artist has; it’s about the influence they’re creating in the present.
What This Means for Future Grammy Contenders
This year’s nominations indicate a shift in how the Grammys are approaching the idea of “new” artistry, giving weight to artists’ recent breakthroughs rather than only debut moments. Carpenter’s nomination is just the latest example, but it’s a sign that the Grammys are keeping pace with how modern artists build their careers.
For rising stars and established artists alike, it’s a reminder that new recognition can come at any stage. As Mason Jr. explained, “It’s about celebrating artists when they finally get the recognition they deserve. We’re here to honor the moment when everything clicks.”
As the Grammys draw closer, the “Best New Artist” category promises to be one of the most intriguing and talked-about races. Carpenter’s nomination marks not only her personal success but also a testament to the evolving journey of artists today.
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