Charter One Pavilion

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

By Tamara Jenkins

The world’s best selling rap artist, Jay-Z, captivated fans with his legendary lyrical skills Tuesday night at the Charter One Pavilion.  The “only rapper to re-write history without a pen” took to the stage dressed in black including black shades, performing his latest anthem, “D.O.A.” (Death of Auto-Tune) in which he declares a moratorium on the practice and calls out rappers on their dependence and excessive used of it.

“You rappers singin’ too much, get back to rap you T-Pain’n too much.”  I’m a multi-millionaire so how is it I’m still the hardest n—a here? I don’t be in the project hallway talkin’ bout how I be in the project all day that sounds stupid to me, if you a gangsta, this is how you prove it to me”

Accompanied by a full band that included drummers, a keyboardist and a horn section and with occasional help from protégé Memphis Bleek, the rap icon performed hit after hit with a jumbo screen serving as the backdrop displaying images to coincide with songs.

The magnitude of is status was apparent as he was besieged with chants of HOVA, HOVA, HOVA during small breaks throughout the show.  Hardcore fan sang along and watched in awe, and men and young boys mimicked him, keeping their sunglasses on.

He paid tribute to Michael Jackson displaying images of him and playing the Jackson Five’s “I Want You Back” and told the crowd to sing along if they knew the words and said he his philosophy is not to mourn death, but to celebrate life.

Near the end of the show, gave the crowd a preview of the Blueprint 3, performing the intro-

“I ain’t talking about gossip, I ain’t talk about Game, I ain’t talking about Jimmy, I ain’t talking about Dame. I’m talking about real shi*.”

As far as street guys, we was dealing crack / that’s how the game goes, I don’t owe nobody jack / grown men want me to sit ’em on my lap / but I don’t have a beard and Santa Claus ain’t black.”

He concluded the show performing “99 Problems”, “Give it to Me”, “Hard Knock Life” and the finale “Encore”.

Fabolous and Ciara were the opening acts. Fabolous’s performance kept with the standard hip hop show formula, consisting of himself, a hype man and DJ on stage as he performed old tracks “Breathe”, “Baby”, “Make Me Better”, “Baby Don’t Go” and his latest single “Throw it in the Bag”. He also threw in his verses from the remixes of NeYo’s “She Got Her Own” and the Dream’s “Rockin That Thang”; nothing too difficult and the more entertaining of the two acts.

Reminiscent of Janet Jackson in appearance wearing ripped blue jeans, black leather vest over a cropped white tee and knee-high boots, Ciara arrived on stage surrounded by four female dancers and artificial smoke blowing she performed her first song “Like a Boy” followed by her debut hit single “Goodies” and then her latest “Love, Sex, Magic”.

Her vocals were descent, but she was lacking creativity. She was also inconsistent-in the middle of the performance she tells the crowd “I heard Chicago knows how to party” and then proceeded to dance to random songs played- Snoop Dog’s “What’s My Name”, Gin and Juice”, Method Man and Mary J. Blige’s “All I Need”, 50 Cent’s “I Get Money” and Lil Wayne’s “Get Money”.

Most shocking was the disappointing choreography as she is more known for her dancing than singing, the moves consisted of pelvic and hip thrusts and leg wiggling more than actual dancing.  And her backup dancers looked like amateurs. During most of the performance they were out of sync and seemed to be trying to keep up with each routine. Overall, her performance was weak.

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Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom

Chicago, Il

October 31, 2025

Bobby Snappz

On Halloween night, October 31, 2025, the historic Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom in
Chicago transformed into a temple of sound and energy for Gods of Chaos an explosive
fusion of hip-hop and hardcore that lived up to its name. Beneath the Aragon’s ornate, star
lit ceiling, thousands of fans gathered for a night that celebrated chaos, rhythm, and raw
power.
The night kicked off with a blistering solo set from Memphis legend Project Pat who brought
Southern swagger and streetwise storytelling to the stage. Backed by thunderous basslines
and an amped-up crowd, Pat performed a string of his biggest hits, including underground
anthems that helped define the Memphis rap movement. His commanding presence and
effortless flow proved why his influence continues to echo through generations of hip-hop
artists.

But the real eruption came when Three Six Mafia took over as the headliners. Juicy J and DJ
Paul led the crowd through a high-octane journey of crunk, horrorcore, and timeless party
anthems. Tracks like “Tear da Club Up ’97,” “Stay Fly,” and “Slob on My Knob” turned the
ballroom into a full-blown riot of lights, smoke, and bass. The duo’s chemistry, paired with
booming 808s and visuals drenched in red and black, captured the perfect Halloween
chaos that fans came to experience.
With moshing rap fans colliding with metalheads and ravers, Gods of Chaos blurred genre
lines in the best possible way. The Aragon’s massive sound system and gothic-meets
Moorish architecture only amplified the spectacle, turning Chicago’s Uptown into ground
zero for one of the wildest nights of the year.
When the final beat dropped, it was clear: Gods of Chaos wasn’t just a concert it was an
unforgettable celebration of rebellion, rhythm, and the enduring power of Three 6 Mafia

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The 2026 GRAMMYS take place Sunday, Feb. 1, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, broadcasting live on the CBS Television Network and streaming live and on demand on Paramount+. Watch highlights and exclusive GRAMMYS content from the 2026 GRAMMYS all year long on live.GRAMMY.com.

The Recording Academy has officially released the full list of nominees for the 2026 GRAMMYS, marking the start of this year’s GRAMMY season and setting the stage for Music’s Biggest Night.

The nominees were announced today during a livestream, with artists including Chappell Roan, Doechii, KAROL G, Mumford & Sons, Sabrina Carpenter, Sam Smith, and more presenting all 95 GRAMMY Categories. This year’s nominations span a wide range of artists, genres, and projects — from established acts to first-time nominees — across pop, country, rap, R&B, Latin, global, jazz, and beyond, reflecting a year marked by wide-ranging creativity in music.

Winners will be determined by the Recording Academy’s Voting Members — a peer group composed of music creators, including artists, songwriters, producers, engineers, and more. Their GRAMMY votes decide every GRAMMY nominee and GRAMMY winner revealed on Music’s Biggest Night, reinforcing the GRAMMY Award as music’s only industry-recognized, peer-voted honor.

This year also marks a notable update to the GRAMMY Awards process: The 2026 GRAMMYS will introduce two new GRAMMY Categories — Best Traditional Country Album and Best Album Cover. These additions further the Recording Academy’s commitment to recognizing a broader spectrum of artistic craft and honoring the evolving ways music is created and experienced.

The 2026 GRAMMYS will take place Sunday, Feb. 1, live at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, broadcasting live on the CBS Television Network and streaming live and on demand on Paramount+.

Check out the full list of nominees for the 2026 GRAMMY Awards below.

Record Of The Year

Award to the Artist and to the Producer(s), Recording Engineer(s) and/or Mixer(s) and mastering engineer(s), if other than the artist.

DtMF

Bad Bunny

Scotty Dittrich, Hydra Hitz, La Paciencia, JULiA LEWiS, MAG & Tyler Spry, producers; Antonio Caraballo, Josh Gudwin, Roberto Rosado & Tyler Spry, engineers/mixers; Colin Leonard, mastering engineer

Manchild

Sabrina Carpenter

Jack Antonoff & Sabrina Carpenter, producers; Jack Antonoff, Bryce Bordone, Jozef Caldwell, Serban Ghenea, Sean Hutchinson, Oli Jacobs, Michael Riddleberger & Laura Sisk, engineers/mixers; Ruairi O’Flaherty, mastering engineer

Anxiety

Doechii

Doechii, producer; Jayda Love, engineer/mixer; Nicolas De Porcel, mastering engineer

WILDFLOWER

Billie Eilish

FINNEAS, producer; Jon Castelli, FINNEAS & Aron Forbes, engineers/mixers; Dale Becker, mastering engineer

Abracadabra

Lady Gaga

Cirkut, Lady Gaga & Andrew Watt, producers; Bryce Bordone, Serban Ghenea & Paul LaMalfa, engineers/mixers; Randy Merrill, mastering engineer

luther

Kendrick Lamar With SZA

Jack Antonoff, Bridgeway, M-Tech, roselilah, Sounwave & Kamasi Washington, producers; Jack Antonoff, Ray Charles Brown Jr., Hector Castro, Oli Jacobs, Jack Manning, Sean Matsukawa, Dani Perez, Tony Shepperd, Laura Sisk & Johnathan Turner, engineers/mixers; Ruairi O’Flaherty, mastering engineer

The Subway

Chappell Roan

Daniel Nigro, producer; Chris Kaysch, Mitch McCarthy & Daniel Nigro, engineers/mixers; Randy Merrill, mastering engineer

APT.

ROSÉ, Bruno Mars

Rogét Chahayed, Cirkut, Omer Fedi & Bruno Mars, producers; Serban Ghenea

Category 2

Album Of The Year

Award to Artist(s) and to Featured Artist(s), Songwriter(s) of new material, Producer(s), Recording Engineer(s), Mixer(s) and Mastering Engineer(s) credited with 20% or more playing time of the album.

DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS

Bad Bunny

Big Jay, La Paciencia, MAG & Tainy, producers; Antonio Caraballo, Josh Gudwin, Luis Amed Irizarry & Roberto José Rosado Torres, engineers/mixers; Benito Antonio Ocasio Martinez, Roberto José Rosado Torres, Marco Daniel Borrero, Jay Anthony Nuñez & Marcos Efrain Masis, songwriters; Colin Leonard, mastering engineer

SWAG

Justin Bieber

Eddie Benjamin, Justin Bieber, Daniel Chetrit, Dijon, Carter Lang & Dylan Wiggins, producers; Felix Byrne & Josh Gudwin, engineers/mixers; Eddie Benjamin, Justin Bieber, Daniel Chetrit, Dijon Duenas, Tobias Jesso Jr., Carter Lang, Jackson Lee Morgan & Dylan Wiggins, songwriters; Dale Becker, mastering engineer

Man’s Best Friend

Sabrina Carpenter

Jack Antonoff, Sabrina Carpenter & John Ryan, producers; Zem Adu, Jack Antonoff, Bryce Bordone, Jozef Caldwell, Serban Ghenea, Jeff Gunnell, David Hart, Mikey Freedom Hart, Sean Hutchinson, Oli Jacobs, Jack Manning, Joey Miller, Michael Riddleberger, John Ryan, Laura Sisk & Evan Smith, engineers/mixers; Amy Allen, Jack Antonoff, Sabrina Carpenter & John Ryan, songwriters; Nathan Dantzler & Ruairi O’Flaherty, mastering engineers

Let God Sort Em Out

Clipse, Pusha T & Malice

Pharrell Williams, featured artist; Pharrell Williams, producer; Mike Larson, Manny Marroquin, Rob Ulsh & Pharrell Williams, engineers/mixers; Gene Elliott Thornton Jr., Terrence Thornton & Pharrell Williams, songwriters; Zach Pereyra, mastering engineer

MAYHEM

Lady Gaga

Cirkut, Gesaffelstein, Lady Gaga & Andrew Watt, producers; Bryce Bordone, Serban Ghenea & Paul LaMalfa, engineers/mixers; Henry Walter, Mike Lévy, Lady Gaga, Michael Polansky & Andrew Watt, songwriters; Randy Merrill, mastering engineer

GNX

Kendrick Lamar

Jack Antonoff & Sounwave, producers; Jack Antonoff, Ray Charles Brown Jr., Jozef Caldwell, Oli Jacobs, Jack Manning, Dani Perez, Laura Sisk & Johnathan Turner, engineers/mixers; Jack Antonoff, Ink, Scott Bridgeway, Sam Dew, Kendrick Lamar, Matthew Bernard & Mark Anthony Spears, songwriters; Ruairi O’Flaherty, mastering engineer

MUTT

Leon Thomas

Freaky Rob, Peter Lee Johnson, D. Phelps & Leon Thomas, producers; Jean-Marie Horvat, engineer/mixer; Lazaro Andres Camejo, Freaky Rob, Peter Lee Johnson, D. Phelps & Leon Thomas, songwriters; Dave Kutch, mastering engineer

CHROMAKOPIA

Tyler, The Creator

Tyler, The Creator, producer; NealHPogue, Tyler Okonma & Vic Wainstein, engineers/mixers; Tyler Okonma, songwriter; Mike Bozzi, mastering engineer

Category 3

Song Of The Year

A Songwriter(s) Award. A song is eligible if it was first released or if it first achieved prominence during the Eligibility Year. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only.

Abracadabra

Lady Gaga, Henry Walter & Andrew Watt, songwriters (Lady Gaga)

Anxiety

Jaylah Hickmon, songwriter (Doechii)

**APT. **

Amy Allen, Christopher Brody Brown, Rogét Chahayed, Omer Fedi, Philip Lawrence, Bruno Mars, Chae Young Park, Theron Thomas & Henry Walter, songwriters (ROSÉ, Bruno Mars)

DtMF

Marco Daniel Borrero, Scott Dittrich, Benjamin Falik, Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, Hugo René Sención Sanabria, Tyler Thomas Spry & Roberto José Rosado Torres, songwriters (Bad Bunny)

**Golden [From “KPop Demon Hunters”]**

EJAE & Mark Sonnenblick, songwriters (HUNTR/X:EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI AMI)

luther

Jack Antonoff, Roshwita Larisha Bacha, Matthew Bernard, Scott Bridgeway, Sam Dew, Ink, Kendrick Lamar, Solána Rowe, Mark Anthony Spears & Kamasi Washington, songwriters (Kendrick Lamar With SZA)

Manchild

Amy Allen, Jack Antonoff & Sabrina Carpenter, songwriters (Sabrina Carpenter)

WILDFLOWER

Billie Eilish O’Connell & Finneas O’Connell, songwriters (Billie Eilish)

Category 4

Best New Artist

This category recognizes an artist whose eligibility-year release(s) achieved a breakthrough into the public consciousness and notably impacted the musical landscape.

Olivia Dean

KATSEYE

The Marias

Addison Rae

sombr

Leon Thomas

Alex Warren

Lola Young

Category 5

Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical

A Producer’s Award. (Artists names appear in parentheses.)

Dan Auerbach

Elegantly Wasted (Hermanos Gutiérrez Featuring Leon Bridges) (S)

Harsh & Exciting (Moonrisers) (A)

Holy Ghost Party (Robert Finley) (S)

Love Is Cruel (Miles Kane) (S)

Medium Raw (Early James) (A)

A Million Knives (The Velveteers) (A)

No Rain, No Flowers (The Black Keys) (A)

Our Time In The Sun (Jeremie Albino) (A)

Cirkut

Abracadabra (Lady Gaga) (S)

AEOMG (Coco Jones) (T)

APT. (ROSÉ & Bruno Mars) (S)

Big Sleep (The Weeknd Featuring Giorgio Moroder) (T)

Disease (Lady Gaga) (S)

IT girl (JADE) (S)

A Little More (Ed Sheeran) (S)

Mayhem (Lady Gaga) (A)

Red Terror (The Weeknd) (T)

Dijon

Baby (Dijon) (A)

DAISIES (Justin Bieber) (T)

DEVOTION (Justin Bieber & Dijon) (T)

THINGS YOU DO (Justin Bieber) (T)

YUKON (Justin Bieber) (T)

Blake Mills

For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women) (Japanese Breakfast) (A)

Forever Is A Feeling (Lucy Dacus) (A)

Glory (Perfume Genius) (A)

That Wasn’t A Dream (Pino Palladino And Blake Mills)(A)

Sounwave

GNX (Kendrick Lamar) (A)

Category 6

Songwriter Of The Year, Non-Classical

A Songwriter’s Award. (Artists names appear in parentheses.)

Amy Allen

APT. (ROSÉ & Bruno Mars) (S)

Bad As The Rest (Jessie Murph) (S)

Hail Mary (Shaboozey, Sierra Ferrell) (T)

Handlebars (JENNIE Featuring Dua Lipa) (S)

Just Keep Watching (Tate McRae) (S)

Lost In Translation (Carín León & Kasey Musgraves) (S)

Manchild (Sabrina Carpenter) (S)

Tears (Sabrina Carpenter) (S)

WHY (Jon Bellion Featuring Luke Combs) (S)

Edgar Barrera

Birthday Behavior (BIA, Young Miko) (S)

Coleccionando Heridas (KAROL G, Marco Antonio Solís) (T)

Ese Vato No Te Queda (Carín León, Gabito Ballesteros) (S)

Me Jalo (Fuerza Regida, Grupo Frontera) (T)

Me Retiro (Santana, Grupo Frontera) (S)

Milagros (KAROL G) (S)

Sigueme Besando Asi (Manuel Turizo) (T)

Soltera (Shakira) (S)

Una Noche Contigo (Juanes) (S)

Jessie Jo Dillon

Bless Your Heart (Megan Moroney) (T)

Bottomland (HARDY) (S)

Dreams Don’t Die (Jelly Roll) (S)

First Rodeo (Kelsea Ballerini) (T)

Happen To Me (Russell Dickerson) (S)

Hello S—ty Day (Jake Worthington, Miranda Lambert)(S)

If You Were Mine (Morgan Wallen) (T)

Patterns (Kelsea Ballerini) (T)

To The Men That Love Women After Heartbreak (Kelsea Ballerini) (T)

**Tobias Jesso Jr.**

Another Baby! (Dijon) (T)

Baby! (Dijon) (T)

Daisies (Justin Bieber) (T)

From (Bon Iver) (T)

Go Baby (Justin Bieber) (T)

Golden Burning Sun (Miley Cyrus) (T)

Man I Need (Olivia Dean) (S)

Relationships (HAIM) (S)

Walking Away (Justin Bieber) (T)

Laura Veltz

About You (BigXthaPlug Featuring Tucker Wetmore) (T)

Blue Strips (Jessie Murph) (S)

Grand Bouquet (Maren Morris) (T)

Leave Me Too (Josh Ross) (S)

Parallel Universe (Lauren Spencer Smith) (T)

Someone In This Room (Jessie Murph Featuring Bailey Zimmerman) (T)

Touch Me Like A Gangster (Jessie Murph) (S)

What Tomorrow’s For (Blessing Offor) (T)

You’ll Be OK, Kid – From The Original Documentary “Child Star” (Demi Lovato) (S)

Field 1: Pop & Dance/Electronic

Category 7

Best Pop Solo Performance

For new vocal or instrumental pop recordings. Singles or Tracks only.

DAISIES

Justin Bieber

Manchild

Sabrina Carpenter

Disease

Lady Gaga

The Subway

Chappell Roan

Messy

Lola Young

Category 8

Best Pop Duo/Group Performance

For new vocal or instrumental duo/group or collaborative pop recordings. Singles or Tracks only.

Defying Gravity

Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande

**Golden [From “KPop Demon Hunters”]**

HUNTR/X: EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI AMI

Gabriela

KATSEYE

**APT.**

ROSÉ, Bruno Mars

30 For 30

SZA Featuring Kendrick Lamar

Category 9

Best Pop Vocal Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new pop vocal recordings.

SWAG

Justin Bieber

Man’s Best Friend

Sabrina Carpenter

Something Beautiful

Miley Cyrus

MAYHEM

Lady Gaga

**I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2)**

Teddy Swims

Category 10

Best Dance/Electronic Recording

For solo, duo, group or collaborative performances. Vocal or Instrumental. Singles or tracks only.

No Cap

Disclosure & Anderson .Paak

Disclosure, producer; Guy Lawrence, mixer

Victory Lap

Fred again.., Skepta, & PlaqueBoyMax

Blake Cascoe, Berwyn Du Bois, Fred again.., Darcy Lewis, Dan Mayo & PlaqueBoyMax, producers; Tom Norris, mixer

SPACE INVADER

KAYTRANADA

KAYTRANADA, producer; KAYTRANADA, mixer

VOLTAGE

Skrillex

John Feldmann & Skrillex, producers; Luca Pretolesi, Skrillex & Virtual Riot, mixers

End Of Summer

Tame Impala

Kevin Parker, producer; Kevin Parker, mixer

Category 11

Best Dance Pop Recording

For solo, duo, group or collaborative performances. Vocal or Instrumental. Singles or tracks only.

Bluest Flame

Selena Gomez & benny blanco

benny blanco, Dylan Brady & Cashmere Cat, producers;benny blanco & Cashmere Cat, mixers

Abracadabra

Lady Gaga

Cirkut, Lady Gaga & Andrew Watt, producers; Serban Ghenea, mixer

Midnight Sun

Zara Larsson

Margo XS & MNEK, producers; Tom Norris, mixer

Just Keep Watching (From F1® The Movie)

Tate McRae

Tyler Spry & Ryan Tedder, producers; Manny Marroquin, mixer

Illegal

PinkPantheress

Aksel Arvid & PinkPantheress, producers; Nickie Jon Pabon

Category 12

Best Dance/Electronic Album

For vocal or instrumental albums. Albums only.

EUSEXUA

FKA twigs

Ten Days

Fred again..

Fancy That

PinkPantheress

Inhale / Exhale

RÜFÜS DU SOL

F— U SKRILLEX YOU THINK UR ANDY WARHOL BUT UR NOT!! <3

Skrillex

Category 13

Best Remixed Recording

A Remixer’s Award. (Artists names appear in parentheses for identification.) Singles or Tracks only.

Abracadabra – Gesaffelstein Remix

Gesaffelstein, remixer (Lady Gaga, Gesaffelstein)

Don’t Forget About Us

FKAYTRANADA, remixer (Mariah Carey & KAYTRANADA)

A Dreams A Dream – Ron Trent Remix

Ron Trent, remixer (Soul II Soul)

Galvanize

Chris Lake, remixer (The Chemical Brothers & Chris Lake)

Golden – David Guetta REM/X

David Guetta, remixer (HUNTR/X: EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI AMI)

Field 2: Rock, Metal & Alternative Music

Category 14

Best Rock Performance

For new vocal or instrumental solo, duo/group or collaborative rock recordings.

U Should Not Be Doing That

Amyl and The Sniffers

The Emptiness Machine

Linkin Park

NEVER ENOUGH

Turnstile

Mirtazapine

Hayley Williams

Changes (Live From Villa Park) Back To The Beginning

YUNGBLUD Featuring Nuno Bettencourt, Frank Bello, Adam Wakeman, II

Category 15

Best Metal Performance

For new vocal or instrumental solo, duo/group or collaborative metal recordings.

Night Terror

Dream Theater

Lachryma

Ghost

Emergence

Sleep Token

Soft Spine

Spiritbox

BIRDS

Turnstile

Category 16

Best Rock Song

A Songwriter(s) Award. Includes Rock, Hard Rock and Metal songs. A song is eligible if it was first released or if it first achieved prominence during the Eligibility Year. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only.

As Alive As You Need Me To Be

Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross, songwriters (Nine Inch Nails)

Caramel

Vessel1 & Vessel2, songwriters (Sleep Token)

Glum

Daniel James & Hayley Williams, songwriters (Hayley Williams)

NEVER ENOUGH

Daniel Fang, Franz Lyons, Pat McCrory, Meg Mills & Brendan Yates, songwriters (Turnstile)

Zombie

Dominic Harrison & Matt Schwartz, songwriters (YUNGBLUD)

Category 17

Best Rock Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new rock, hard rock or metal recordings.

private music

Deftones

I quit

HAIM

From Zero

Linkin Park

NEVER ENOUGH

Turnstile

Idols

YUNGBLUD

Category 18

Best Alternative Music Performance

For new vocal or instrumental solo, duo/group or collaborative Alternative music recordings.

Everything Is Peaceful Love

Bon Iver

Alone

The Cure

SEEIN’ STARS

Turnstile

mangetout

Wet Leg

Parachute

Hayley Williams

Category 19

Best Alternative Music Album

Vocal or Instrumental.

SABLE, fABLE

Bon Iver

Songs Of A Lost World

The Cure

DON’T TAP THE GLASS

Tyler, The Creator

moisturizer

Wet Leg

Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party

Hayley Williams

Field 3: R&B, Rap & Spoken Word Poetry

Category 20

Best R&B Performance

For new vocal or instrumental R&B recordings.

YUKON

Justin Bieber

It Depends

Chris Brown Featuring Bryson Tiller

Folded

Kehlani

MUTT — Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk

Leon Thomas

Heart Of A Woman

Summer Walker

Category 21

Best Traditional R&B Performance

For new vocal or instrumental traditional R&B recordings.

Here We Are

Durand Bernarr

UPTOWN

Lalah Hathaway

LOVE YOU TOO

Ledisi

Crybaby

SZA

VIBES DON’T LIE

Leon Thomas

Category 22

Best R&B Song

A Songwriter(s) Award. A song is eligible if it was first released or if it first achieved prominence during the Eligibility Year. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only.

Folded

Darius Dixson, Andre Harris, Donovan Knight, Don Mills, Kehlani Parrish, Khris Riddick-Tynes & Dawit Kamal Wilson, songwriters (Kehlani)

Heart Of A Woman

David Bishop & Summer Walker, songwriters (Summer Walker)

It Depends

Nico Baran, Chris Brown, Ant Clemons, Ephrem Lopez Jr., Ryan Press, Bryson Tiller, Elliott Trent & Dewain Whitmore Jr., songwriters (Chris Brown Featuring Bryson Tiller)

Overqualified

James John Abrahart Jr & Durand Bernarr, songwriters (Durand Bernarr)

YES IT IS

Jariuce Banks, Lazaro Andres Camejo, Mike Hector, Peter Lee Johnson, Rodney Jones Jr., Ali Prawl & Leon Thomas, songwriters (Leon Thomas)

Category 23

Best Progressive R&B Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of newly recorded progressive vocal tracks derivative of R&B.

BLOOM

Durand Bernarr

Adjust Brightness

Bilal

LOVE ON DIGITAL

Destin Conrad

Access All Areas

FLO

Come As You Are

Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon

Category 24

Best R&B Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new R&B recordings.

BELOVED

GIVĒON

**Why Not More?**

Coco Jones

The Crown

Ledisi

Escape Room

Teyana Taylor

MUTT

Leon Thomas

Category 25

Best Rap Performance

For a Rap performance. Singles or Tracks only.

Outside

Cardi B

Chains & Whips

Clipse, Pusha T & Malice Featuring Kendrick Lamar & Pharrell Williams

Anxiety

Doechii

tv off

Kendrick Lamar Featuring Lefty Gunplay

Darling, I

Tyler, The Creator Featuring Teezo Touchdown

Category 26

Best Melodic Rap Performance

For a solo or collaborative performance containing both elements of R&B melodies and Rap.

Proud Of Me

Fridayy Featuring Meek Mill

Wholeheartedly

JID Featuring Ty Dolla $ign & 6Lack

luther

Kendrick Lamar With SZA

WeMaj

Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon Featuring Rapsody

SOMEBODY LOVES ME

PARTYNEXTDOOR & Drake

Category 27

Best Rap Song

A Songwriter(s) Award. A song is eligible if it was first released or if it first achieved prominence during the Eligibility Year. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only.

Anxiety

Jaylah Hickmon, songwriter (Doechii)

The Birds Don’t Sing

Gene Elliott Thornton Jr., Terrence Thornton, Pharrell Williams & Stevie Wonder, songwriters (Clipse, Pusha T & Malice Featuring John Legend & Voices Of Fire)

Sticky

Aaron Bolton, Dwayne Carter, Jr., Dudley Alexander Duverne, Tyler Okonma, Janae Wherry, Gloria Woods & Rex Zamor, songwriters (Tyler, The Creator Featuring GloRilla, Sexyy Red & Lil Wayne)

TGIF

Lucas Alegria, Dillon Brophy, Yakki Davis, Jess Jackson, Ronnie Jackson, Mario Mims, Jorge M. Taveras & Gloria Woods, songwriters (GloRilla)

tv off

Jack Antonoff, Larry Jayy, Kendrick Lamar, Dijon McFarlane, Sean Momberger, Mark Anthony Spears & Kamasi Washington, songwriters (Kendrick Lamar Featuring Lefty Gunplay)

Category 28

Best Rap Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new rap recordings.

Let God Sort Em Out

Clipse, Pusha T & Malice

GLORIOUS

GloRilla

God Does Like Ugly

JID

GNX

Kendrick Lamar

CHROMAKOPIA

Tyler, The Creator

Category 29

Best Spoken Word Poetry Album

For albums containing greater than 50% playing time of new spoken word poetry recordings.

A Hurricane in Heels: healed people don’t act like that — partially recorded live @City Winery & other places

Queen Sheba

Black Shaman

Marc Marcel

Pages

Omari Hardwick & Anthony Hamilton

Saul Williams Meets Carlos Niño & Friends At Treepeople

Saul Williams, Carlos Niño & Friends

Words For Days Vol. 1

Mad Skillz

Field 4: Jazz, Traditional Pop, Contemporary Instrumental & Musical Theater

Category 30

Best Jazz Performance

For new vocal or instrumental solo, duo/group or collaborative jazz recordings.

Noble Rise

Lakecia Benjamin Featuring Immanuel Wilkins & Mark Whitfield

Windows – Live

Chick Corea, Christian McBride & Brian Blade

Peace Of Mind / Dreams Come True

Samara Joy

Four

Michael Mayo

All Stars Lead To You – Live

Nicole Zuraitis, Dan Pugach, Tom Scott, Idan Morim, Keyon Harrold & Rachel Eckroth

Category 31

Best Jazz Vocal Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new vocal jazz recordings.

Elemental

Dee Dee Bridgewater & Bill Charlap

**We Insist 2025!**

Terri Lyne Carrington & Christie Dashiell

Portrait

Samara Joy

Fly

Michael Mayo

Live at Vic’s Las Vegas

Nicole Zuraitis, Dan Pugach, Tom Scott, Idan Morim, Keyon Harrold & Rachel Eckroth

Category 32

Best Jazz Instrumental Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new instrumental jazz recordings.

Trilogy 3 — Live

Chick Corea, Christian McBride & Brian Blade

Southern Nights

Sullivan Fortner Featuring Peter Washington & Marcus Gilmore

Belonging

Branford Marsalis Quartet

Spirit Fall

John Patitucci Featuring Chris Potter & Brian Blade

Fasten Up

Yellowjackets

Category 33

Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new large ensemble jazz recordings.

Orchestrator Emulator

The 8-Bit Big Band

Without Further Ado, Vol 1

Christian McBride Big Band

Lumen

Danilo Pérez & Bohuslän Big Band

Basie Rocks

Deborah Silver & The Count Basie Orchestra

Lights on a Satellite

Sun Ra Arkestra

Some Days Are Better: The Lost Scores

Kenny Wheeler Legacy Featuring The Royal Academy of Music Jazz Orchestra & Frost Jazz Orchestra

Category 34

Best Latin Jazz Album

For vocal or instrumental albums containing greater than 75% playing time of newly recorded material. The intent of this category is to recognize recordings that represent the blending of jazz with Latin, Iberian-American, Brazilian, and Argentinian tango music.

La Fleur de Cayenne

Paquito D’Rivera & Madrid-New York Connection Band

The Original Influencers: Dizzy, Chano & Chico Arturo O’Farrill & The Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra

Featuring Pedrito Martinez, Daymé Arocena, Jon Faddis, Donald Harrison & Melvis Santa

Mundoagua – Celebrating Carla Bley

Arturo O’Farrill & The Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra

A Tribute to Benny Moré and Nat King Cole

Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Yainer Horta & Joey Calveiro

Vanguardia Subterránea: Live at The Village Vanguard

Miguel Zenón Quartet

Category 35

Best Alternative Jazz Album

For vocal or instrumental albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new Alternative jazz recordings.

honey from a winter stone

Ambrose Akinmusire

Keys To The City Volume One

Robert Glasper

Ride into the Sun

Brad Mehldau

LIVE-ACTION

Nate Smith

Blues Blood

Immanuel Wilkins

Category 36

Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new traditional pop recordings.

Wintersongs

Laila Biali

The Gift Of Love

Jennifer Hudson

**Who Believes In Angels?**

Elton John & Brandi Carlile

Harlequin

Lady Gaga

A Matter Of Time

Laufey

The Secret Of Life: Partners, Volume 2

Barbra Streisand

Category 37

Best Contemporary Instrumental Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new contemporary instrumental recordings.

Brightside

ARKAI

Ones & Twos

Gerald Clayton

BEATrio

Béla Fleck, Edmar Castañeda, Antonio Sánchez

Just Us

Bob James & Dave Koz

Shayan

Charu Suri

Category 38

Best Musical Theater Album

For albums containing greater than 51% playing time of new recordings. Award to the principal vocalist(s), and the album producer(s) of 50% or more playing time of the album. The lyricist(s) and composer(s) of 50 % or more of a score of a new recording are eligible for an Award if any previous recording of said score has not been nominated in this category.

Buena Vista Social Club

Marco Paguia, Dean Sharenow & David Yazbek, producers (Original Broadway Cast)

Death Becomes Her

Taurean Everett, Megan Hilty, Josh Lamon, Christopher Sieber, Jennifer Simard & Michelle Williams, principal vocalists; Noel Carey, Sean Patrick Flahaven, Julia Mattison & Scott M. Riesett, producers; Noel Carey & Julia Mattison, composers/lyricists (Original Broadway Cast)

Gypsy

Danny Burstein, Kevin Csolak, Audra McDonald, Jordan Tyson & Joy Woods, principal vocalists; David Caddick, Andy Einhorn, David Lai & George C. Wolfe, producers (Jule Styne, composer; Stephen Sondheim, lyricist) (2024 Broadway Cast)

Just In Time

Emily Bergl, Jonathan Groff, Erika Henningsen, Gracie Lawrence & Michele Pawk, principal vocalists; Derik Lee, Andrew Resnick & Bill Sherman, producers (Bobby Darin, composer & lyricist) (Original Broadway Cast)

Maybe Happy Ending

Marcus Choi, Darren Criss, Dez Duron & Helen J Shen, principal vocalists; Deborah Abramson, Will Aronson, Ian Kagey & Hue Park, producers; Hue Park, lyricist; Will Aronson, composer & lyricist (Original Broadway Cast)

Field 5: Country & American Roots Music

Category 39

Best Country Solo Performance

For new vocal or instrumental solo country recordings.

Nose On The Grindstone

Tyler Childers

Good News

Shaboozey

Bad As I Used To Be [From “F1® The Movie”] Chris Stapleton

I Never Lie

Zach Top

Somewhere Over Laredo

Lainey Wilson

Category 40

Best Country Duo/Group Performance

For new vocal or instrumental duo/group or collaborative country recordings.

A Song To Sing

Miranda Lambert And Chris Stapleton

Trailblazer

Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson

Love Me Like You Used To Do

Margo Price & Tyler Childers

Amen

Shaboozey & Jelly Roll

Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame

George Strait, Chris Stapleton

Category 41

Best Country Song

A Songwriter(s) Award. A song is eligible if it was first released or if it first achieved prominence during the Eligibility Year. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only.

Bitin’ List

Tyler Childers, songwriter (Tyler Childers)

Good News

Michael Ross Pollack, Sam Elliot Roman & Jacob Torrey, songwriters (Shaboozey)

I Never Lie

Carson Chamberlain, Tim Nichols & Zach Top, songwriters (Zach Top)

Somewhere Over Laredo

Andy Albert, Trannie Anderson, Dallas Wilson & Lainey Wilson, songwriters (Lainey Wilson)

A Song To Sing

Jenee Fleenor, Jesse Frasure, Miranda Lambert & Chris Stapleton, songwriters (Miranda Lambert And Chris Stapleton)

Category 42

Best Traditional Country Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new traditional country recordings.

Dollar A Day

Charley Crockett

American Romance

Lukas Nelson

Oh What A Beautiful World

Willie Nelson

Hard Headed Woman

Margo Price

Ain’t In It For My Health

Zach Top

Category 43

Best Contemporary Country Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new contemporary country recordings.

Patterns

Kelsea Ballerini

Snipe Hunter

Tyler Childers

Evangeline Vs. The Machine

Eric Church

Beautifully Broken

Jelly Roll

Postcards From Texas

Miranda Lambert

Category 44

Best American Roots Performance

For new vocal or instrumental American Roots recordings. This is for performances in the style of any of the subgenres encompassed in the American Roots Music field including bluegrass, blues, folk or regional roots. Award to the artist(s).

LONELY AVENUE

Jon Batiste Featuring Randy Newman

Ancient Light

I’m With Her

Crimson And Clay

Jason Isbell

Richmond On The James

Alison Krauss & Union Station

Beautiful Strangers

Mavis Staples

Category 45

Best Americana Performance

For new vocal or instrumental Americana performance. Award to the artist(s).

Boom

Sierra Hull

Poison In My Well

Maggie Rose & Grace Potter

Godspeed

Mavis Staples

That’s Gonna Leave A Mark

Molly Tuttle

Horses

Jesse Welles

Category 46

Best American Roots Song

A Songwriter(s) Award. Includes Americana, bluegrass, traditional blues, contemporary blues, folk or regional roots songs. A song is eligible if it was first released or if it first achieved prominence during the Eligibility Year. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only.

Ancient Light

Sarah Jarosz, Aoife O’Donovan & Sara Watkins, songwriters (I’m With Her)

BIG MONEY

Jon Batiste, Mike Elizondo & Steve McEwan, songwriters (Jon Batiste)

Foxes In The Snow

Jason Isbell, songwriter (Jason Isbell)

Middle

Jesse Welles, songwriter (Jesse Welles)

Spitfire

Sierra Hull, songwriter (Sierra Hull)

Category 47

Best Americana Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new vocal or instrumental Americana recordings.

BIG MONEY

Jon Batiste

Bloom

Larkin Poe

Last Leaf On The Tree

Willie Nelson

So Long Little Miss Sunshine

Molly Tuttle

Middle

Jesse Welles

Category 48

Best Bluegrass Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new vocal or instrumental bluegrass recordings.

Carter & Cleveland

Michael Cleveland & Jason Carter

A Tip Toe High Wire

Sierra Hull

Arcadia

Alison Krauss & Union Station

Outrun

The Steeldrivers

Highway Prayers

Billy Strings

Category 49

Best Traditional Blues Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new vocal or instrumental traditional blues recordings.

Ain’t Done With The Blues

Buddy Guy

Room On The Porch

Taj Mahal & Keb’ Mo’

One Hour Mama: The Blues Of Victoria Spivey

Maria Muldaur

Look Out Highway

Charlie Musselwhite

Young Fashioned Ways

Kenny Wayne Shepherd & Bobby Rush

Category 50

Best Contemporary Blues Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new vocal or instrumental contemporary blues recordings.

Breakthrough

Joe Bonamassa

Paper Doll

Samantha Fish

A Tribute To LJK

Eric Gales

Preacher Kids

Robert Randolph

Family

Southern Avenue

Category 51

Best Folk Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new vocal or instrumental folk recordings.

What Did The Blackbird Say To The Crow

Rhiannon Giddens & Justin Robinson

Crown Of Roses

Patty Griffin

Wild And Clear And Blue

I’m With Her

Foxes In The Snow

Jason Isbell

Under The Powerlines April 24 – September 24

Jesse Welles

Category 52

Best Regional Roots Music Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new vocal or instrumental regional roots music recordings.

Live At Vaughan’s

Corey Henry & The Treme Funktet

For Fat Man

Preservation Brass & Preservation Hall Jazz Band

Church Of New Orleans

Kyle Roussel

Second Line Sunday

Trombone Shorty And New Breed Brass Band

A Tribute To The King Of Zydeco

(Various Artists)

Field 6: Gospel & Contemporary Christian Music

Category 53

Best Gospel Performance/Song

This award is given to the artist(s) and songwriter(s) (for new compositions) for the best traditional Christian, roots gospel or contemporary gospel single or track.

Do It Again

Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin, songwriter

Church

Tasha Cobbs Leonard, John Legend; Anthony S. Brown, Brunes Charles, Annatoria Chitapa, Kenneth Leonard, Jr., Tasha Cobbs Leonard & Jonas Myrin, songwriters

Still Live

Jonathan McReynolds & Jamal Roberts; Britney Delagraentiss, Jonathan McReynolds, David Lamar Outing III, Orlando Joel Palmer & Terrell Demetrius Wilson, songwriters

Amen

Pastor Mike Jr.; Adia Andrews, Michael McClure Jr., David Lamar Outing II & Terrell Anthony Pettus, songwriters

Come Jesus Come

Cece Winans Featuring Shirley Caesar

Category 54

Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song

This award is given to the artist(s) and songwriter(s) (for new compositions) for the best contemporary Christian music single or track, (including pop, rap/hip-hop, Latin, or rock.)

I Know A Name

Elevation Worship, Chris Brown, Brandon Lake; Hank Bentley, Steven Furtick, Brandon Lake & Jacob Sooter, songwriters

YOUR WAY’S BETTER

Forrest Frank; Forrest Frank & Pera, songwriters

Hard Fought Hallelujah

Brandon Lake With Jelly Roll; Chris Brown, Jason Bradley Deford, Steven Furtick, Benjamin William Hastings & Brandon Lake, songwriters

Headphones

Lecrae, Killer Mike, T.I.; Bongo ByTheWay, Clifford Harris, William Roderick Miller, Lecrae Moore, Michael Render & Tyshane Thompson, songwriters

Amazing

Darrel Walls, PJ Morton; PJ Morton & Darrel Walls,songwriters

Category 55

Best Gospel Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of newly recorded, vocal, traditional or contemporary/R&B gospel music recordings.

Sunny Days

Yolanda Adams

Tasha

Tasha Cobbs Leonard

Live Breathe Fight

Tamela Mann

Only On The Road Live

Tye Tribbett

Heart Of Mine

Darrel Walls, PJ Morton

Category 56

Best Contemporary Christian Music Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of newly recorded, vocal, contemporary Christian music, including pop, rap/hip hop, Latin, or rock recordings.

CHILD OF GOD II

Forrest Frank

Coritos Vol. 1

Israel & New Breed

King Of Hearts

Brandon Lake

Reconstruction

Lecrae

Let The Church Sing

Tauren Wells

Category 57

Best Roots Gospel Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of newly recorded, vocal, traditional/roots gospel music, including country, Southern gospel, bluegrass, and Americana recordings.

I Will Not Be Moved — Live

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

Then Came The Morning

Gaither Vocal Band

Praise & Worship: More Than A Hollow Hallelujah

The Isaacs

Good Answers

Karen Peck & New River

Back To My Roots

Candi Staton

Field 7: Latin, Global, Reggae & New Age, Ambient, or Chant

Category 58

Best Latin Pop Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new Latin pop recordings.

Cosa Nuestra

Rauw Alejandro

BOGOTÁ DELUXE

Andrés Cepeda

Tropicoqueta

KAROL G

Cancionera

Natalia Lafourcade

**¿Y ahora qué?**

Alejandro Sanz

Category 59

Best Música Urbana Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new Música Urbana recordings.

DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS

Bad Bunny

Mixteip

J Balvin

FERXXO VOL X: Sagrado

Feid

NAIKI

Nicki Nicole

EUB DELUXE

Trueno

SINFÓNICO — En Vivo

Yandel

Category 60

Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new Latin rock or alternative recordings.

Genes Rebeldes

Aterciopelados

ASTROPICAL

Bomba Estéreo, Rawayana, ASTROPICAL

PAPOTA

CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso

ALGORHYTHM

Los Wizzards

Novela

Fito Paez

Category 61

Best Música Mexicana Album (Including Tejano)

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new regional Mexican (banda, norteño, corridos, gruperos, mariachi, ranchera and Tejano) recordings.

MALA MÍA

Fuerza Regida, Grupo Frontera

Y Lo Que Viene

Grupo Frontera

Sin Rodeos

Paola Jara

**Palabra De To’s [Seca]**

Carín León

**Bobby Pulido & Friends Una Tuya Y Una Mía – Por La Puerta Grande [En Vivo]**

Bobby Pulido

Category 62

Best Tropical Latin Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new tropical Latin recordings.

Fotografías

Rubén Blades, Roberto Delgado & Orquesta

Raíces

Gloria Estefan

Clásicos 1.0

Grupo Niche

Bingo

Alain Pérez

Debut y Segunda Tanda, Vol. 2

Gilberto Santa Rosa

Category 63

Best Global Music Performance

For new vocal or instrumental Global music recordings.

EoO

Bad Bunny

Cantando en el Camino

Ciro Hurtado

JERUSALEMA

Angélique Kidjo

**Inmigrante Y Que?**

Yeisy Rojas

**Shrini’s Dream [Live]**

Shakti

Daybreak

Anoushka Shankar Featuring Alam Khan & Sarathy Korwar

Category 64

Best African Music Performance

Love

Burna Boy

With You

Davido Featuring Omah Lay

Hope & Love

Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin

Gimme Dat

Ayra Starr Featuring Wizkid

PUSH 2 START

Tyla

Category 65

Best Global Music Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new vocal or instrumental Global Music recordings.

Sounds Of Kumbha

Siddhant Bhatia

No Sign of Weakness

Burna Boy

Eclairer le monde – Light the World

Youssou N’Dour

**Mind Explosion [50th Anniversary Tour Live]**

Shakti

Chapter III: We Return To Light

Anoushka Shankar Featuring Alam Khan & Sarathy Korwar

Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo

Caetano Veloso And Maria Bethânia

Category 66

Best Reggae Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new reggae recordings.

Treasure Self Love

Lila Iké

Heart & Soul

Vybz Kartel

BLXXD & FYAH

Keznamdi

From Within

Mortimer

No Place Like Home

Jesse Royal

Category 67

Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new vocal or instrumental new age recordings.

Kuruvinda

Kirsten Agresta-Copely

According To The Moon

Cheryl B. Engelhardt, GEM, Dallas String Quartet

Into The Forest

Jahnavi Harrison

NOMADICA

Carla Patullo Featuring The Scorchio Quartet & Tonality

The Colors In My Mind

Chris Redding

Field 8: Children’s, Comedy, Audio Books, Visual Media & Music Video/Film

Category 68

Best Children’s Music Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new musical or spoken word recordings that are created and intended specifically for children.

Ageless: 100 Years Young

Joanie Leeds & Joya

Buddy’s Magic Tree House

Mega Ran

Harmony

FYÜTCH & Aura V

Herstory

Flor Bromley

The Music Of Tori And The Muses

Tori Amos

Category 69

Best Comedy Album

For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of new recordings.

Drop Dead Years

Bill Burr

PostMortem

Sarah Silverman

Single Lady

Ali Wong

What Had Happened Was…

Jamie Foxx

Your Friend, Nate Bargatze

Nate Bargatze

Category 70

Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording

Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors Story

Kathy Garver

Into The Uncut Grass

Trevor Noah

Lovely One: A Memoir

Ketanji Brown Jackson

Meditations: The Reflections Of His Holiness The Dalai Lama

Dalai Lama

You Know It’s True: The Real Story Of Milli Vanilli

Fab Morvan

Category 71

Best Compilation Soundtrack For Visual Media

Award to the principal artist(s) and/or ‘in studio’ producer(s) of a majority of the tracks on the album. In the absence of both, award to the one or two individuals proactively responsible for the concept and musical direction of the album and for the selection of artists, songs and producers, as applicable. Award also goes to appropriately credited music supervisor(s).

A Complete Unknown

Timothée Chalamet

F1® The Album

(Various Artists)

KPop Demon Hunters

(Various Artists)

Sinners

(Various Artists)

Wicked

(Various Artists)

Category 72

Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media (Includes Film And Television)

Award to Composer(s) for an original score created specifically for, or as a companion to, a current legitimate motion picture, television show or series, or other visual media.

How To Train Your Dragon

John Powell, composer

Severance: Season 2

Theodore Shapiro, composer

Sinners

Ludwig Göransson, composer

Wicked

John Powell & Stephen Schwartz, composers

The Wild Robot

Kris Bowers, composer

Category 73

Best Score Soundtrack for Video Games and Other Interactive Media

Award to Composer(s) for an original score created specifically for, or as a companion to, video games and other interactive media.

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora – Secrets of the Spires

Pinar Toprak, composer

Helldivers 2

Wilbert Roget, II, composer

Indiana Jones And The Great Circle

Gordy Haab, composer

Star Wars Outlaws: Wild Card & A Pirate’s Fortune

Cody Matthew Johnson & Wilbert Roget, II, composers

Sword of the Sea

Austin Wintory, composer

Category 74

Best Song Written For Visual Media

A Songwriter(s) award. For a song (melody & lyrics) written specifically for a motion picture, television, video games or other visual media, and released for the first time during the Eligibility Year. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only.

**As Alive As You Need Me To Be — From “TRON: Ares”**

Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross, songwriters (Nine Inch Nails)

**Golden — From “KPop Demon Hunters”**

EJAE & Mark Sonnenblick, songwriters (HUNTR/X: EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI AMI)

**I Lied to You — From “Sinners”**

Ludwig Göransson & Raphael Saadiq, songwriters (Miles Caton)

**Never Too Late — From “Elton John: Never Too Late”**

Brandi Carlile, Elton John, Bernie Taupin & Andrew Watt, songwriters (Elton John, Brandi Carlile)

**Pale, Pale Moon — From “Sinners”**

Ludwig Göransson & Brittany Howard, songwriters (Jayme Lawson)

**Sinners — From “Sinners”**

Leonard Denisenko, Rodarius Green, Travis Harrington, Tarkan Kozluklu, Kyris Mingo & Darius Povilinus, songwriters (Rod Wave)

Category 75

Best Music Video

Award to the artist, video director, and video producer.

Manchild

Sabrina Carpenter

Vania Heymann & Gal Muggia, video directors; Aiden Magarian, Nathan Scherrer & Natan Schottenfels, video producers

So Be It

Clipse

Hannan Hussain, video director; Daniel Order, video producer

Anxiety

Doechii

James Mackel, video director; Pablo Feldman, Jolene Mendes & Sophia Sabella, video producers

Love

OK Go

Aaron Duffy, Miguel Espada & Damian Kulash Jr., video directors; Petra Ahmann, video producer

Young Lion

Sade

Sophie Muller, video director; Aaron Taylor Dean & Sade, video producers

Category 76

Best Music Film

For concert/performance films or music documentaries. Award to the artist, video director, and video producer.

Devo

Devo

Chris Smith, video director; Danny Gabai, Anita Greenspan, Chris Holmes & Chris Smith, video producers

Live At The Royal Albert Hall

Raye

Paul Dugdale, video director; Stefan Demetriou & Amy James, video producers

Relentless

Diane Warren

Bess Kargman, video director; Peggy Drexler, Michele Farinola & Kat Nguyen, video producers

Music By John Williams

John Williams

Laurent Bouzereau, video director; Sara Bernstein, Laurent Bouzereau, Justin Falvey, Darryl Frank, Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, Meredith Kaulfers, Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, Steven Spielberg & Justin Wilkes, video producers

Piece By Piece

Pharrell Williams

Morgan Neville, video director; Morgan Neville, Caitrin Rogers, Mimi Valdes & Pharrell Williams, video producers

Field 9: Package, Notes & Historical

Category 77

Best Recording Package

And The Adjacent Possible

Hà Trinh Quoc Bao, Damian Kulash, Jr., Claudio Ripol, Wombi Rose & Yuri Suzuki, art directors (OK Go)

Balloonerism

Bráulio Amado & Alim Smith, art directors (Mac Miller)

Danse Macabre: De Luxe

Rory McCartney, art director (Duran Duran)

Loud Is As

Farbod Kokabi & Emily Sneddon, art directors (Tsunami)

Sequoia

Tim Breen & Ken Shipley, art directors (Various Artists)

The Spins — Picture Disc Vinyl

Miller McCormick, art director (Mac Miller)

Tracks II: The Lost Albums

Meghan Foley & Michelle Holme, art directors (Bruce Springsteen)

Category 78

Best Album Cover

CHROMAKOPIA

Shaun Llewellyn & Luis “Panch” Perez, art directors (Tyler, The Creator)

The Crux

William Wesley II, art director (Djo)

Debí Tirar Más Fotos

Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, art director (Bad Bunny)

Glory

Cody Critcheloe & Andrew J.S., art directors (Perfume Genius)

moisturizer

Hester Chambers, Ellis Durand, Henry Holmes, Matt de Jong, Jamie-James Medina, Joshua Mobaraki & Rhian Teasdale, art directors (Wet Leg)

Category 79

Best Album Notes

Adios, Farewell, Goodbye, Good Luck, So Long: On Stage 1964-1974

Scott B. Bomar, album notes writer (Buck Owens And His Buckaroos)

After The Last Sky

Adam Shatz, album notes writer (Anouar Brahem, Anja Lechner, Django Bates, Dave Holland)

Árabe

Amanda Ekery, album notes writer (Amanda Ekery)

The First Family: Live At Winchester Cathedral 1967

Alec Palao, album notes writer (Sly & The Family Stone)

A Ghost Is Born — 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition

Bob Mehr, album notes writer (Wilco)

Miles ’55: The Prestige Recordings

Ashley Kahn, album notes writer (Miles Davis)

Category 80

Best Historical Album

Joni Mitchell Archives – Volume 4: The Asylum Years — 1976-1980

Patrick Milligan & Joni Mitchell, compilation producers; Bernie Grundman, mastering engineer (Joni Mitchell)

The Making Of Five Leaves Left

Cally Callomon & Johnny Chandler, compilation producers; Simon Heyworth & John Wood, mastering engineers (Nick Drake)

Roots Rocking Zimbabwe – The Modern Sound Of Harare’ Townships 1975-1980 — Analog Africa No.41

Samy Ben Redjeb, compilation producer; Michael Graves, mastering engineer (Various Artists)

Super Disco Pirata – De Tepito Para El Mundo 1965-1980 — Analog Africa No. 39

Samy Ben Redjeb, compilation producer; Michael Graves, mastering engineer (Various Artists)

You Can’t Hip A Square: The Doc Pomus Songwriting Demos

Will Bratton, Sharyn Felder & Cheryl Pawelski, compilation producers; Michael Graves, mastering engineer (Doc Pomus)

Field 10: Production, Engineering, Composition & Arrangement

Category 81

Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical

An Engineer’s Award. (Artists names appear in parentheses.)

All Things Light

Jesse Brock, Jon Castelli, Tyler Johnson, Nick Lobel, Simon Maartensson, Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell, Anders Mouridsen, Ryan Nasci, Ernesto Olivera-Lapier, Ethan Schneiderman & Owen Stoutt, engineers; Dale Becker, mastering engineer (Cam)

Arcadia

Neal Cappellino & Gary Paczosa, engineers; Brad Blackwood, mastering engineer (Alison Krauss & Union Station)

For Melancholy Brunettes & sad women

Joseph Lorge, Blake Mills & Sebastian Reunert, engineers; Patricia Sullivan, mastering engineer (Japanese Breakfast)

That Wasn’t A Dream

Joseph Lorge & Blake Mills, engineers; Patricia Sullivan, mastering engineer (Pino Palladino, Blake Mills)

Category 82

Best Engineered Album, Classical

An Engineer’s Award. (Artist names appear in parentheses.)

Cerrone: Don’t Look Down

Mike Tierney, engineer; Alan Silverman, mastering engineer (Sandbox Percussion)

Eastman: Symphony No. 2; Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 2

Gintas Norvila, engineer; Jennifer Nulsen, mastering engineer (Franz Welser-Möst & The Cleveland Orchestra)

Shostakovich: Lady Macbeth Of The Mtsensk District

Shawn Murphy & Nick Squire, engineers; Tim Martyn, mastering engineer (Andris Nelsons, Kristine Opolais, Günther Groissböck, Peter Hoare, Brenden Gunnell & Boston Symphony Orchestra)

Standard Stoppages

Sean Connors, Robert Dillon, Peter Martin, Bill Maylone, Judith Sherman & David Skidmore, engineers; Joe Lambert, mastering engineer (Third Coast Percussion)

Yule

Morten Lindberg, engineer; Morten Lindberg, mastering engineer (Trio Mediæval)

Category 83

Producer Of The Year, Classical

A Producer’s Award. (Artist names appear in parentheses.)

Blanton Alspaugh

All Is Miracle – The Choral Music Of Kyle Pederson (Timothy J. Campbell & Transept) (A)

Heggie: Intelligence (Kwame Ryan, Janai Brugger, Jamie Barton, J’Nai Bridges & Houston Grand Opera) (A)

Marsalis: Blues Symphony (Jader Bignamini & Detroit Symphony Orchestra) (A)

Massenet: Werther (Robert Spano, Matthew Polenzani, sabel Leonard & Houston Grand Opera) (A)

The Mirage Calls (Charles Bruffy & Kansas City Chorale) (A)

Sheehan: Ukrainian War Requiem (Michael Zaugg, Axios Men’s Ensemble & Pro Coro Canada) (A)

Sun, Moon, Stars, Rain (Christopher Gabbitas & Phoenix Chorale) (A)

Sergei Kvitko

Biedenbender: Enigma; River Of Time (Kevin L. Sedatole & Michigan State University Wind Symphony) (A)

Chiaroscuro (Vedrana Subotic) (A)

Dancing In A Still Life (Tasha Warren) (A)

Excursions (Vuorovesi Trio) (A)

Four Hands. Two Hearts. One Hope. Ukrainian And American Music For Piano Duo (Mykhailo Diordiiev & Anastasiia Larchikova) (A)

Here And Now – Trumpet Music By Virginia Composers (Jason Crafton, Richard Masters, Annie Stevens & Paul Langosch) (A)

Lansky: Touch And Go (Gwendolyn Dease) (A)

Orbiting Garden (William Hobbs) (A)

Would That Loving Were Enough (Haven Trio) (A)

Morten Lindberg

Fred Over Jorden (Peace To The World) (Elisabeth Holte, Kjetil Bjerkestrand & Uranienborg Vokalensemble) (A)

Stjernebru (Anne Karin Sundal-Ask & Det Norske Jentekor) (A)

Yule (Trio Mediæval) (A)

Dmitriy Lipay

Heggie: Before It All Goes Dark (Joseph Mechavich, Megan Marino, Ryan McKinny & Music Of Remembrance Ensemble) (A)

Odyssey (Jorge Glem, Gustavo Dudamel & Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra Of Venezuela) (A)

Ortiz: Yanga (Gustavo Dudamel, Alisa Weilerstein & Los Angeles Philharmonic) (A)

Elaine Martone

Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique (Franz Welser-Möst & The Cleveland Orchestra) (A)

Chopin & Rachmaninoff: Cello Sonatas (Brian Thornton & Spencer Myer) (A)

Dear Mrs. Kennedy (Ryan Townsend Strand) (A)

Eastman: Symphony No. 2; Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 2 (Franz Welser-Möst & The Cleveland Orchestra) (A)

LeFrak: Romántico (Sharon Isbin, Lopez-Yañez & Orchestra Of St. Luke’s) (A)

Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 27 & Symphony No. 29 (Garrick Ohlsson, Franz Welser-Möst & The Cleveland Orchestrea) (A)

The Poet & The Prodigy (Debra Nagy & Mark Edwards) (A)

Shapes In Collective Space (Tallā Rouge) (A)

Songs Of Orpheus (Kelley O’Connor) (A)

Category 84

Best Immersive Audio Album

For vocal or instrumental albums in any genre. Must be commercially released for physical sale or on an eligible streaming or download service and must provide a new immersive mix of four or more channels. Award to the immersive mix engineer, immersive producer (if any) and immersive mastering engineer (if any).

All American F—boy

Andrew Law, immersive mix engineer (Duckwrth)

Immersed

Justin Gray, immersive mix engineer; Michael Romanowski, immersive mastering engineer; Justin Gray, Drew Jurecka & Morten Lindberg, immersive producers (Justin Gray)

An Immersive Tribute To Astor Piazzolla — Live

Andrés Mayo & Martín Muscatello, immersive mix engineers; Andrés Mayo & Martín Muscatello, immersive producers (Various Artists)

Tearjerkers

Hans-Martin Buff, immersive mix engineer; Hans-Martin Buff, immersive producer (Tearjerkers)

Yule

Morten Lindberg, immersive mix engineer; Morten Lindberg, immersive mastering engineer; Arve Henriksen & Morten Lindberg, immersive producers (Trio Mediæval)

Category 85

Best Instrumental Composition

A Composer’s Award for an original composition (not an adaptation) first released during the Eligibility Year. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only

First Snow

Remy Le Boeuf, composer (Nordkraft Big Band, Remy Le Boeuf & Danielle Wertz)

Live Life This Day: Movement I

Miho Hazama, composer (Miho Hazama, Danish Radio Big Band & Danish National Symphony Orchestra)

Lord, That’s A Long Way

Sierra Hull, composer (Sierra Hull)

Opening

Zain Effendi, composer (Zain Effendi)

Train To Emerald City

John Powell & Stephen Schwartz, composers (John Powell & Stephen Schwartz)

Why You Here / Before The Sun Went Down

Ludwig Göransson, composer (Ludwig Göransson Featuring Miles Caton)

Category 86

Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella

An Arranger’s Award. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only.

Be Okay

Cynthia Erivo, arranger (Cynthia Erivo)

A Child Is Born

Remy Le Boeuf, arranger (Nordkraft Big Band & Remy Le Boeuf)

Fight On

Andy Clausen, Addison Maye-Saxon, Riley Mulherkar & Chloe Rowlands, arrangers (The Westerlies)

Super Mario Praise Break

Bryan Carter, Charlie Rosen & Matthew Whitaker, arrangers (The 8-Bit Big Band)

Category 87

Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals

An Arranger’s Award. (Artist names appear in parentheses.) Singles or Tracks only.

Big Fish

Erin Bentlage, Sara Gazarek, Johnaye Kendrick, Nate Smith & Amanda Taylor, arrangers (Nate Smith Featuring säje)

**How Did She Look?**

Nelson Riddle, arranger (Seth MacFarlane)

Keep An Eye On Summer

Jacob Collier, arranger (Jacob Collier)

Something In The Water — Acoustic-Ish

Clyde Lawrence, Gracie Lawrence & Linus Lawrence, arrangers (Lawrence)

What A Wonderful World

Cody Fry, arranger (Cody Fry)

Field 11: Classical

Category 88

Best Orchestral Performance

Award to the Conductor and to the Orchestra.

**Coleridge-Taylor: Toussaint L’Ouverture, Ballade Op. 4, Suites From ’24 Negro Melodies’**

Michael Repper, conductor (National Philharmonic)

Messiaen: Turangalîla-Symphonie

Andris Nelsons, conductor (Boston Symphony Orchestra)

Ravel: Boléro, M. 81

Gustavo Dudamel, conductor (Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra Of Venezuela)

Still & Bonds

Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor (The Philadelphia Orchestra)

Stravinsky: Symphony In Three Movements

Esa-Pekka Salonen, conductor (San Francisco Symphony)

Category 89

Best Opera Recording

Award to the Conductor, Album Producer(s) and Principal Soloists, and to the Composer and Librettist (if applicable) of a world premiere Opera recording only.

Heggie: Intelligence

Kwamé Ryan, conductor; Jamie Barton, J’Nai Bridges & Janai Brugger; Blanton Alspaugh, producer (Houston Grand Opera; Gene Scheer)

Huang Ruo: An American Soldier

Carolyn Kuan, conductor; Hannah Cho, Alex DeSocio, Nina Yoshida Nelsen & Brian Vu; Adam Abeshouse, Silas Brown & Doron Schachter, producers (American Composers Orchestra; David Henry Hwang)

Kouyoumdjian: Adoration

Alan Pierson, conductor; Miriam Khalil, Marc Kudisch, David Adam Moore, Omar Najmi, Naomi Louisa O’Connell & Karim Sulayman; Mary Kouyoumdjian, producer (Silvana Quartet; The Choir Of Trinity Wall Street)

O’Halloran: Trade & Mary Motorhead

Elaine Kelly, conductor; Oisín Ó Dálaigh & John Molloy; Alex Dowling & Emma O’Halloran, producers (Irish National Opera Orchestra; Mark O’Halloran)

Tesori: Grounded

Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor; Ben Bliss, Emily D’Angelo, Greer Grimsley & Kyle Miller; David Frost, producer (The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra; The Metropolitan Opera Chorus; George Brant)

Category 90

Best Choral Performance

Award to the Conductor, and to the Choral Director and/or Chorus Master where applicable and to the Choral Organization/Ensemble.

Advena – Liturgies For A Broken World

Craig Hella Johnson, conductor (Simon Barrad, Emily Yocum Black & Michael Hawes; Conspirare)

Childs: In The Arms Of The Beloved

Grant Gershon, conductor (Billy Childs, Dan Chmielinski, Christian Euman, Larry Koonse, Lyris Quartet, Anne Akiko Meyers, Carol Robbins & Luciana Souza; Los Angeles Master Chorale)

Lang: Poor Hymnal

Donald Nally, conductor (Steven Bradshaw, Michael Hawes, Lauren Kelly, Rebecca Siler & Elisa Sutherland; The Crossing)

Ortiz: Yanga

Gustavo Dudamel, conductor; Grant Gershon, chorus master (Los Angeles Philharmonic; Los Angeles Master Chorale)

Requiem Of Light

Steven Fox, conductor; Emily Drennan & Patti Drennan, chorus masters (Brian Giebler & Sangeeta Kaur; The Clarion Choir)

Category 91

Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance

For new recordings of works with chamber or small ensemble (twenty-four or fewer members, not including the conductor). One Award to the ensemble and one Award to the conductor, if applicable.

Dennehy: Land Of Winter

Alan Pierson & Alarm Will Sound

La Mer – French Piano Trios

Neave Trio

Lullabies For The Brokenhearted

Lili Haydn & Paul Cantelon

Slavic Sessions

Yuja Wang; Andris Nelsons, conductor (Boston Symphony Orchestra)

Standard Stoppages

Third Coast Percussion

Category 92

Best Classical Instrumental Solo

Award to the Instrumental Soloist(s) and to the Conductor when applicable.

**Coleridge-Taylor: 3 Selections From ’24 Negro Melodies’**

Curtis Stewart; Michael Repper, conductor (National Philharmonic)

Hope Orchestrated

Mary Dawood Catlin; Jesús David Medina & Raniero Palm, conductors (Venezuela Strings Recording Ensemble)

Inheritances

Adam Tendler

Price: Piano Concerto In One Movement In D Minor

Han Chen; John Jeter, conductor (Malmö Opera Orchestra)

Shostakovich: The Cello Concertos

Yo-Yo Ma; Andris Nelsons, conductor (Boston Symphony Orchestra)

Shostakovich: The Piano Concertos; Solo Works

Yuja Wang; Andris Nelsons, conductor (Boston Symphony Orchestra)

Category 93

Best Classical Solo Vocal Album

Award to: Vocalist(s), Collaborative Artist(s) (Ex: pianists, conductors, chamber groups) Producer(s), Recording Engineers/Mixers with greater than 50% playing time of new material.

Alike – My Mother’s Dream

Allison Charney, soloist; Benjamin Loeb, conductor (National Symphonia Orchestra)

Black Pierrot

Sidney Outlaw, soloist; Warren Jones, pianist

In This Short Life

Devony Smith, soloist; Danny Zelibor, pianist; Michael Nicolas, artist

Kurtág: Kafka Fragments

Susan Narucki, soloist; Curtis Macomber, artist

Schubert Beatles

Theo Hoffman, soloist; Steven Blier, pianist (Rupert Boyd, Julia Bullock, Alex Levine, Andrew Owens, Rubén Rengel & Sam Weber)

Telemann: Ino – Opera Arias For Soprano

Amanda Forsythe, soloist; Robert Mealy, Paul O’Dette & Stephen Stubbs, conductors (Boston Early Music Festival Orchestra)

Category 94

Best Classical Compendium

Award to the Artist(s) and to the Album Producer(s) and Engineer(s) of over 50% playing time of the album, and to the Composer and Librettist (if applicable) with over 50% playing time of a world premiere recording only.

Cerrone: Don’t Look Down

Sandbox Percussion; Jonathan Allen, Victor Caccese, Christopher Cerrone, Ian Rosenbaum, Terry Sweeney & Mike Tierney, producers

The Dunbar/Moore Sessions, Vol. II

Will Liverman; Jonathan Estabrooks, producer

Ortiz: Yanga

Gustavo Dudamel, conductor; Dmitriy Lipay, producer

Seven Seasons

Janai Brugger, Isolde Fair, MB Gordy & Starr Parodi; Nicholas Dodd, conductor; Jeff Fair, Starr Parodi & Kitt Wakeley, producers

Tombeaux

Christina Sandsengen; Shaun Drew & Christina Sandsengen, producers

Category 95

Best Contemporary Classical Composition

A Composer’s Award. (For a contemporary classical composition composed within the last 25 years, and released for the first time during the Eligibility Year.) Award to the librettist, if applicable.

Cerrone: Don’t Look Down

Christopher Cerrone, composer (Conor Hanick & Sandbox Percussion)

Dennehy: Land Of Winter

Donnacha Dennehy, composer (Alan Pierson & Alarm Will Sound)

León: Raíces — Origins

Tania León, composer (Edward Gardner & London Philharmonic Orchestra)

Okpebholo: Songs In Flight

Shawn E. Okpebholo, composer (Will Liverman, Paul Sánchez & Various Artists)

Ortiz: Dzonot

Gabriela Ortiz, composer (Alisa Weilerstein, Gustavo Dudamel & Los Angeles Philharmonic)

On February 2, 2025, Little Rock, Arkansas became the epicenter of a pop culture tremor that rippled far beyond the banks of the Arkansas River. The Statehouse Convention Center, usually home to civic banquets and business expos, was transformed into a pulsing, neon-lit temple of fandom—where anime collided with pro wrestling, vintage comics danced with TikTok-era cosplay, and the ghosts of Saturday morning cartoons mingled with the living avatars of sci-fi royalty.

This wasn’t San Diego. It wasn’t New York. It was Little Rock Comic Con—a one-day, high octane celebration of everything weird, wonderful, and wildly nostalgic. And it didn’t need a three-day schedule to make its mark. It was a Southern-fried spectacle, compact and kinetic, like a firework that explodes all at once and leaves you blinking in the afterglow.

Cosplay as Communion
By 10 a.m., the cosplay parade had already turned the convention floor into a living storyboard. A fully articulated RoboCop clanked past a glitter-drenched Sailor Moon, while a group of Silent Hill nurses moved like a slow-motion horror ballet. One attendee, dressed as SpongeBob SquarePants, had hand-stitched every pore and square inch of his costume,
turning heads and winning hearts.

The cosplay contest, held mid-afternoon, felt less like a competition and more like a ritual—a communal offering to the gods of fandom. The crowd roared for a Chainsaw Man duo, gasped at a Predator with animatronic mandibles, and gave standing ovations to a local teen who recreated Princess Mononoke with bark-textured armor and hand-dyed wolf pelts.

Legends in the Flesh

The celebrity lineup leaned heavy into wrestling nostalgia, and the fans leaned right back.
Mick Foley, Kurt Angle, and Jake “The Snake” Roberts didn’t just sign autographs—they held court. Foley’s panel was part stand-up set, part therapy session, as he recounted the infamous Hell in a Cell match with the kind of raw vulnerability that made the room go silent. Roberts, ever the enigmatic storyteller, spun tales of locker room chaos and redemption arcs that felt Shakespearean in scope.

Elsewhere, voice actors from cult anime series and retro cartoons gave intimate Q&As, pulling back the curtain on the industry’s quirks and heartbreaks. One panel on indie comic publishing turned into a spontaneous pitch session, with creators swapping zines and business cards like jazz musicians trading riffs.

The Bazaar of Memory

The vendor hall was a sensory overload—rows of vintage comics, bootleg VHS tapes,
enamel pins, and hand-painted figurines. A local artist sold prints of Arkansas cryptids rendered in manga style. A vendor from Texas hawked rare Dragon Ball Z cards like they were sacred relics. And tucked in the back corner, a table of retired librarians sold discarded sci-fi paperbacks for a dollar apiece, each one a portal to a forgotten future.

It wasn’t just commerce—it was communion. Fans traded stories, debated canon, and bonded over shared obsessions. A father and daughter duo, dressed as Ash and Pikachu, spent twenty minutes talking Pokémon lore with a stranger who turned out to be a retired biology professor. These were the moments that made the con feel less like an event and more like a living archive of pop culture’s emotional resonance.

Southern Soul, Global Pulse

Little Rock Comic Con didn’t try to be everything. It didn’t sprawl. It didn’t dilute. It concentrated. It pulsed with the energy of a city that knows its roots and isn’t afraid to
remix them. The Southern hospitality was real—staff were helpful, signage was clear, and the vibe was inclusive without being performative.

For mc, this con could thread beautifully into themes of communal ritual,
regional spectacle, and Americana reimagined. It’s not just about the costumes or the panels—it’s about the way a city like Little Rock can hold space for memory, myth, and modern fandom in a single day.

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From the moment the lights dropped and the first images hit the screen, Ice Cube owned the United Center. The show opened with a powerful video montage narrated by Cube himself, laying out his life story. The struggles, the losses, the grind, and the reasons behind his motivation were all covered onto multiple video screens. It was raw and honest, the kind of intro that lets you know he’s not performing for applause, he’s testifying. When the montage ended and he stepped into the spotlight, the crowd erupted, ready for whatever he had lined up next. He carried that same intensity into the first track, setting the tone for a night that felt as personal as it did powerful.

Cube’s setlist struck the right balance between fury and nostalgia. He ripped through “Check Yo Self,” “You Know How We Do It,” and “Fuck tha Police” with the same unfiltered energy that first made him a force. The visuals hit just as hard, flashing scenes from L.A., archival footage, and the reality he comes from. Midway through, he paused to honor Eazy-E, acknowledging that since Eazy isn’t here anymore, his son Lil E stepped in to carry the torch. Lil E came out and joined Cube for “Boyz-n-the-Hood,” a moment that felt deliberate and weighty, just before Cube jumped straight back into N.W.A. mode with “Gangsta Gangsta.”

Technically, everything hit where it should. The sound was clean, the bass was heavy, and Cube’s voice resonated through every corner of the arena. Between songs, he broke the barrier of performer vs. audience, talking to the crowd like they were his peers. He cracked jokes, called out phonies, and let real talk slip in about loyalty, purpose, and endurance. You could feel that connection, and in an arena of United Center’s magnitude, connection is rare. It proved presence isn’t made by lights or theatrics, it’s made by being unafraid to show the scars.

If I had to sum up the night, I’d say Ice Cube reminded Chicago exactly why he’s still relevant. He’s not chasing trends or craving nostalgia, he’s doing what he’s always done, with the same gut punch. The performance carried grit, truth, and zero compromise. It was hip-hop distilled down to its core, and Chicago showed up to honor it. For a city that knows struggle and resilience, Cube’s message landed in the right place…loud, real, and unshakeable.

Ice Cube – OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Chris Brown

Wrigley Field

Chicago, IL

Keeton Robinson 

On August 28, 2025, Chris Brown transformed Chicago’s historic Wrigley Field into a full-blown arena of lights, sound, and celebration for his Breezy Bowl XX Tour, marking 20 years since his debut album. It was a night that felt more like a spectacle than just a concert — a powerful statement from an artist still pushing the limits of R&B and performance.

The Atmosphere

From the moment fans poured into the stadium, it was clear this wasn’t going to be an ordinary show. A sold-out crowd buzzed with anticipation, filling every inch of the field and stands. The energy was electric long before Chris even hit the stage, with the warm Chicago air adding to the summer-night magic.

Opening Acts: Setting the Tone

The evening kicked off with Summer Walker, who delivered a sleek and confident set. Her vocal control was on point, and she moved with a confidence that showed how far she’s come as a live performer. She closed her set with “Insane,” which resonated powerfully across the crowd.

Next up, Bryson Tiller brought his signature moody vibe and crowd favorites like “Don’t” and “Exchange.” His set was smooth, polished, and perfectly paced — acting as the calm before the storm.

Chris Brown’s Entrance: A Theatrical Masterclass

Then came the moment everyone was waiting for. After a dramatic countdown and laser-filled intro, Chris Brown descended onto the stage in true arena-tour fashion. Surrounded by strobing lights, giant video walls, and swarms of drones, the scene was more like a movie premiere than a concert opening.

The Performance

Chris delivered a 53-song set that spanned his entire career — from early hits like “Run It!” and “Yo (Excuse Me Miss)” to mid-career bangers like “Forever” and “Look at Me Now”, and all the way to his latest tracks.

Each section of the show was like its own chapter. High-energy dance routines, stripped-down vocal showcases, and futuristic visuals kept the momentum up throughout. The standout moment of the night? A mid-show aerial stunt where Chris performed suspended over the crowd while delivering a tightly choreographed routine — a literal high point.

Production Quality

The production was nothing short of top-tier: pyrotechnics, laser beams, floating platforms, and seamless choreography. Every transition between songs was purposeful, blending his classics with newer material in a way that told the story of his evolution as an artist.

Fan Reactions

The crowd stayed on their feet for nearly the entire set. Fans screamed, cried, sang every word — it felt more like a two-way celebration between Chris and the people who’ve supported him for two decades. There was a real sense of gratitude in his performance, even during the most high-octane moments.

Final Thoughts

Chris Brown’s Wrigley Field concert wasn’t just a celebration of 20 years — it was a reminder of his staying power and unmatched showmanship. Whether you came for the vocals, the dancing, or just the hits, you left knowing you’d witnessed something special

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Nelly

Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre

Tinley Park, IL

by Keeton Robinson

The Where Party At Tour lived up to its name, delivering a night of nostalgia, energy, and pure 2000s hip-hop and R&B magic. Fans packed the venue ready to relive an era defined by radio hits, club anthems, and unforgettable hooks — and the lineup of Nelly, Eve, Chingy, and Ja Rule did not disappoint.

Chingy set the tone early, hitting the stage with his St. Louis swagger and running through a string of crowd favorites. “Right Thurr” had the audience instantly on their feet, while “Holidae In” and “One Call Away” reminded fans just how deep his catalog goes. His smooth delivery and upbeat presence made for the perfect opener.

Next up, Eve proved why she remains one of the most respected female MCs in hip-hop. The Ruff Ryders First Lady commanded the stage with fierce confidence, spitting bar after bar with the same sharpness she’s always been known for. Tracks like “Who’s That Girl” and “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” (with the crowd singing Gwen Stefani’s part at full volume) had the audience roaring. Eve’s mix of grit and glamour was a highlight of the night.

When Ja Rule stepped out, the energy shifted to full-on party mode. Known for his string of chart-topping collaborations, he had the crowd in their feelings and dancing at the same time. “Always On Time,” “Livin’ It Up,” and “Put It On Me” turned the venue into a giant singalong, and fans lit up the arena with their phones during “Mesmerize.” Love him or hate him, Ja Rule’s stage presence proved undeniable.

Closing the night, Nelly showed exactly why he was one of the biggest stars of the 2000s. Backed by infectious beats and his signature Midwest charm, he fired off hits like “Hot in Herre,” “Air Force Ones,” and “Country Grammar.” The highlight came when he slowed things down for “Dilemma,” with the entire crowd taking on Kelly Rowland’s vocals word-for-word. Nelly kept the crowd moving nonstop, showing that two decades later, he can still control a stage with ease.

By the end of the night, it was clear the Where Party At Tour wasn’t just a concert — it was a time machine. For fans of 2000s hip-hop and R&B, the show felt like stepping back into an era where these artists ruled the charts and the clubs. From start to finish, the tour lived up to its promise: the party was definitely right here.

United Center

Keeton Robinson

CHICAGO, IL — On a blazing summer night that pulsed with the spirit of hip-hop, the Wu-Tang Clan brought down the house at the United Center in what they claimed would be their final performance in the Windy City. If this truly was the end of an era, they didn’t just go out—they exploded in classic Wu-Tang fashion: unfiltered, unified, and unfazed by time.

From the moment the house lights dropped and that iconic Wu-Tang “W” logo bathed the stage in golden light, it was clear: this wasn’t just a show. It was a coronation. An homage to 30 years of raw lyricism, kung fu samples, street sermons, and underground-to-mainstream triumphs.

The Wu-Tang Clan Chicago concert 2025 kicked off with Method Man and Raekwon detonating “Bring Da Ruckus,” setting off a chain reaction that had the packed arena shaking. The crowd—a beautiful cross-section of hip-hop heads, 90s purists in vintage Wu-Wear, and fresh-faced Gen Z fans shouting every lyric—was locked in from the jump.

Then came Ghostface Killah, stalking the stage like a griot in designer shades. GZA followed, cold and precise, delivering bars like poetry carved in marble. And when Young Dirty Bastard jumped into the chaos with a feral rendition of his father’s “Shimmy Shimmy Ya,” the United Center erupted. ODB’s legacy wasn’t just honored—it was resurrected.

Midway through the night, RZA stepped to the mic and addressed the city with raw love. “Chicago,” he said, “you’ve been a second home to us. You showed up for the Clan before the world did.” The arena roared with the kind of loyalty that only decades of shared beats and bars can build.

The setlist was a living mixtape of Wu-Tang’s greatest hits: “C.R.E.A.M.,” “Protect Ya Neck,” “Triumph,” “Da Mystery of Chessboxin’.” Every verse was a time machine, every hook a war cry. This was not a group phoning it in. Every member brought heat—solo joints, deep cuts, wild freestyles. Their chemistry? Still surgical. Still soulful. Still Shaolin.

But this wasn’t just nostalgia—it was a final Wu-Tang tour stop that reminded us just how present they still are. As hip-hop turns 50, the Wu-Tang Clan showed they’re not just legends—they’re living proof that bars, beats, and brotherhood never age.

As the show closed, the Clan lined up center stage, arms raised like champions. RZA’s voice echoed across the stadium:
“Wu-Tang is forever.”
And in that moment, it wasn’t a catchphrase—it was a prophecy.

For Chicago hip-hop fans, this was more than a goodbye. It was a benediction. A celebration. A promise that even if the tour ends, the legacy—that New York grit mixed with global impact—lives on forever.

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Lumen Field

Seattle, WA

by Maya McKeefery

Seattle didn’t just host a concert last night. It got swept into a firestorm farewell—the kind of show that leaves your skin buzzing and your heart a little scorched. Lumen Field, home to NFL noise and die-hard fandom, turned into a futuristic cathedral of light, sound, and smoke as The Weeknd bid adieu to the persona that made him a global star.

Even two hours before the first synth hit, the place radiated heat. Not just from the lights, but from the crowd: decked out in coordinated fits and glittered skin, like they were heading to a neon séance. Dead center on the stage, a towering, gold-plated Sorayama-style android loomed—part robot, part sex symbol, surrounded by a cityscape straight out of Blade Runner on molly. The setup didn’t whisper “event”—it screamed it.

Inside, the ground thumped before a single beat dropped. “SOLD OUT” flashed on every screen like a war cry. By the time all 68,740 bodies had taken their seats—or rather, refused to sit—the stadium had morphed into something holy. Or maybe haunted.

Mike Dean: The Prophet with a Synth

Opening the night was producer and synth-sorcerer Mike Dean, cloaked in white behind a golden keyboard rig that looked like it could summon spirits. No crowd work, no ego trip—just pure sonic control. As “IN PARADISUM” unfurled, it felt like the Earth paused. Dean sculpted ambient dreamscapes that didn’t ask for attention—they demanded surrender.

Tracks like “SAX SELECTOR” washed over the crowd with cosmic precision, synced to moody, cathedral-grade lighting. At times, the volume rattled the rafters so hard, fans in the nosebleeds literally covered their ears. This wasn’t a warm-up—it was a seismic ritual.

Playboi Carti: Chaos Personified

Then came Playboi Carti—and suddenly, the arena turned from space opera to punk rock opera.

Carti’s set wasn’t broadcasted on the main screen. It didn’t need to be. He emerged like a demon out of a glam-goth fever dream: blacked out in shades and leather, yelling “EVERYONE STAND UP!” The crowd answered like a riot being summoned.

With flame-throwers, red strobes, and viral dancer Meechie at his side, Carti tore through tracks like he was trying to break the floor beneath him. “Fe!n” wasn’t just a song—it was a battlefield chant. “Sky” turned the crowd into a 70,000-person frat party with a soul. The dome pulsed with sweat, fire, and something primal. No apologies. No filters.

The Weeknd: Exit the Starboy

Then, silence.

The lights dimmed. Dancers cloaked in red floated across the stage in golden masks, moving like ghosts. A figure peeked through the curtain—Abel Tesfaye, saying one last hello to the persona he’s about to leave behind. This wasn’t just the start of a set. This was a requiem.

“The Abyss” rolled in like a blood moon. Red lights, fire columns, the deafening roar of a stadium coming undone. From there, it was 44 songs of pure immersion—a time-traveling tour through every layer of The Weeknd’s mythos. “Starboy” hit like a resurrection. “Take My Breath” lit up every wristband in the stadium like constellations. We weren’t just witnessing a show—we were the show.

The middle act turned inward. With “Call Out My Name” and “Die For You,” the crowd clutched the lyrics like personal prayers. Strangers sobbed, strangers hugged. You could feel hearts breaking in unison.

And just when the emotion threatened to consume us, Abel brought the fire back. “São Paulo” hit like a war drum. “Moth to a Flame” glowed with twisted beauty. And then—just like that—he vanished in a curtain of fire and fireworks, whispering, “I love you,” before disappearing into the night.

A Goodbye That Felt Like a Beginning

Walking out of Lumen Field, ears ringing, heart pounding, you didn’t feel like you’d been to a concert. You felt like you’d been baptized in neon. Even if you came alone, you left with 68,000 new friends. You weren’t just watching The Weeknd say goodbye—you were part of the send-off.

If this was truly the death of The Weeknd, Seattle didn’t just witness it—they helped bury him in flames.

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SiR

Riviera Theatre

June 07, 2025

Chicago, IL

by Keeton Robinson

Few artists know how to blend soulful vocals with modern vibes quite like SiR. The Chicago show on June 7 at the historic Riviera Theatre was a night to remember. Fans gathered expecting a night full of smooth sounds and emotional moments. In this review, you’ll discover how SiR delivered an electrifying performance, and why the Riviera Theatre set the perfect scene for his music. Prepare to relive the night or get excited for what’s next.

SiR, born Sir Darryl Peters Jr., is a rising star in the world of R&B. He’s part of the Top Dawg Entertainment family, alongside artists like Kendrick Lamar and SZA. Over the years, SiR has released several albums that boost his reputation as a top-tier singer and songwriter. Notable projects include “November” and “Used 2,” both showcasing his ability to mix smooth melodies with introspective lyrics. He’s also collaborated with big names like Anderson .Paak, further cementing his influence in modern soul music.

What makes SiR stand out? It’s his dreamy, soulful voice paired with thoughtful lyrics that often touch on love, growth, and self-awareness. His style combines classic R&B with hints of jazz, funk, and pop. When he performs live, fans notice his arrangements often include extended vocal runs or improvisations, keeping every concert unique. Tracks like “D’Funny How” and “Something New” become even more captivating in a live setting, where his emotional delivery pulls everyone closer.

The Riviera Theatre has been a part of Chicago’s cultural scene since the 1930s. This historic venue is known for its stunning Art Deco design and vintage charm. Its ornate ceiling and plush seating give it a cozy yet grand feel. The acoustics are praised by artists and fans alike, making it an ideal place for an intimate but powerful concert experience.

The crowd on June 7 was a diverse mix of young and old, all united by a love for soulful music. Fans were excited, some waving phones to catch every moment, others soaking in the vibe with eyes closed. The theatre’s layout allowed everyone to feel close to SiR, no matter where they sat. The warm ambiance and attentive audience created a memorable, almost personal concert experience.

SiR’s setlist was a mix of hits and deep cuts that kept fans hooked. Most of his popular songs like “WAR” and “Something New” sounded even better live. He added some surprises by changing up the arrangements. Notably, he brought out a guest artist for a verse, improvising parts of the song that made the performance feel fresh and spontaneous.

SiR’s stage presence was undeniable. His smooth vocals never faltered, and his charisma made the audience feel connected. He seemed genuine, sharing stories between songs and making eye contact. Fans left saying they felt like they experienced more than just a concert — it was a personal moment with him.

Lighting played a big role in creating mood. Soft pinks and blues washed over the stage as SiR sang, while subtle visuals added depth. The stage design was simple but effective, focusing on SiR’s vocals and mood. These visual choices made each song more emotional, turning the concert into a sensory journey.

Local Chicago outlets and music critics agreed. They described the show as “intimate” yet “powerful,” praising SiR’s vocal control and the venue’s atmosphere. Critics also noted his ability to switch from mellow tunes to energetic moments seamlessly. The consensus? SiR’s Chicago performance confirmed his place as one of the top voices in modern R&B.

SiR’s June 7 concert at the Riviera Theatre was a night filled with soul, passion, and genuine connection. His effortless vocals and magnetic stage presence kept the audience in awe. The historic venue added an extra layer of charm, making every moment even more special. If you missed this show, don’t worry — SiR’s upcoming performances are sure to deliver more unforgettable nights. Stay tuned, and immerse yourself in his growing musical journey. His voice is one you won’t want to miss.

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