ALBUM OF THE YEAR: THE NOMINEES

Break out the confetti cannons, the Grammys are approaching. Peep the Album of the Year nominees.

Jon Batiste, World Music Radio: Grammy handed AOTY to the versatile Verve/Interscope artist-songwriter-muso-bandleader last time (with an armload of other trophies); might this more eclectic, pop-leaning set repeat that feat?

boygenius, the record: When Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus joined forces, the result was greater than the sum of its parts. A breakout SNL performance amped up the Interscope threesome’s momentum; could they go all the way?

Miley Cyrus, Endless Summer Vacation: The Columbia vocal dynamo’s smasheroo “Flowers,” discussed below, was a signal song of 2023. This album includes some of the most affecting and disciplined pop she—or anyone—has made in a long time.

Lana Del Rey, Did you know that there's a tunnel under Ocean Blvd: The Interscope innovator pushes yet more boundaries on this challenging offering, taking her distinctive approach to the next level. Could this Blvd give her a lane to victory?

Janelle Monáe, The Age of Pleasure: Anything the multitalented Monáe does is of interest, and Pleasure’s exuberant, global vibe—incorporating Afrobeats, reggae and more—won critical plaudits. Might she surprise with a win?

Olivia Rodrigo, GUTS: There was no sophomore slump whatsoever for the Geffen star, who was nominated across the Big Four categories and took home BNA, Pop Solo Performance and Pop Vocal Album in 2022. GUTS, which she co-crafted with trusty amanuensis Dan Nigro, showed her increased confidence in multiple styles. Could it take the prize?

Taylor Swift, Midnights: The Republic megastar conquered 2023 with her monster tour, hit movie of the tour, re-recorded triumphs, media ubiquity and huge streams for this sophisticated, candid set. Will she cap an unprecedented run with a win here?

SZA, SOS: The TDE/RCA superstar’s follow-up to the monster Ctrl was among the most eagerly awaited albums of the decade and still managed to exceed expectations. Indeed, everything SZA did in 2023 was next-level. Will she have a suitably triumphant Grammy night?