This year’s Grammy nominations for rap mark an incredible moment for a genre that feels fully alive again. It has been a great year for hip-hop, with artists dropping career-defining releases that show a range of depth, emotion, and storytelling that had been missing in recent years. From veterans refining their sound to rising stars breaking through, this year’s lineup reflects how powerful and creative rap remains.
Kendrick Lamar continues to lead the charge with an impressive nine nominations across multiple categories, further proving that his creative momentum is unmatched. With GNX, he continues to show why he is one of the most consistent and visionary voices in music today. Kendrick has not taken his foot off the gas pedal of GNX since its release. His single “Luther” featuring SZA recently dropped out of the Billboard Top 40, sparking conversation about it being the first time in 30 years that rap did not occupy a space on that chart. Even so, Kendrick’s reign remains steady, his storytelling sharp, and his artistic range as expansive as ever.
CLIPSE also made a powerful statement this year, earning five nominations for their long-awaited album Let God Sort Em Out. The project stands as one of the most heralded and anticipated releases of the year. With its impactful rollout, layered production, and flawless execution, CLIPSE reminded everyone why they remain a pillar of rap excellence. The chemistry between Pusha T and No Malice is as strong as ever, their lyrics balancing experience, reflection, and purpose. Their return is both triumphant and deeply rooted in authenticity.
The Best Melodic Rap Performance category brings another compelling moment as Kendrick Lamar and Drake go head-to-head once again. Their rivalry, both artistic and competitive, continues to shape hip-hop’s narrative. Kendrick’s “Luther” and Drake’s “Somebody Loves Me” stand as two of the most significant melodic rap records of the year, blending emotion and precision in different but equally powerful ways.
JID emerges as one of this year’s most inspiring stories. His album God Does Like Ugly earned him a well-deserved nomination, validating his status as one of the most skilled and introspective lyricists of his generation. Meanwhile, Tyler, The Creator, Doechii, and GloRilla continue their waves of success. Tyler’s Chromakopia is another example of his inventive artistry, Doechii’s “Anxiety” reflects her honesty and grit, and GloRilla’s Glorious captures her unapologetic energy and authenticity.
Still, the list comes with a few surprises and omissions. Chance the Rapper’s Star Line and Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist’s Alfredo 2 are notably absent, even though both received critical acclaim. Chance’s comeback project was one of the most heartfelt and stellar releases of the year, while Gibbs and Alchemist’s follow-up to their classic collaboration offered elite lyricism and immaculate production. Both feel like snubs, but in a year this competitive, every category is stacked with excellence.
As February approaches, anticipation builds for what is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Grammy nights in years. This year’s nominations celebrate the range, resilience, and artistry of rap music. Kendrick Lamar continues to carry the torch with power, CLIPSE has reclaimed their throne, and a new generation of talent is ensuring the genre’s future is in good hands. The Grammys will not only honor individual winners but also recognize a collective victory for hip-hop culture itself.
2026 GRAMMY NOMINATIONS
BEST RAP ALBUM
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Kendrick Lamar — GNX
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GloRilla — Glorious
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JID — God Does Like Ugly
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Tyler, The Creator — Chromakopia
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CLIPSE — Let God Sort Em Out
BEST RAP SONG
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Kendrick Lamar & Left Gunplay — “TV Off”
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Doechii — “Anxiety”
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CLIPSE (feat. John Legend) — “The Birds Don’t Sing”
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Tyler, The Creator (feat. GloRilla, Sexyy Red & Lil Wayne) — “Sticky”
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GloRilla — “TGIF”
BEST RAP PERFORMANCE
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Cardi B — “Outside”
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Doechii — “Anxiety”
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Kendrick Lamar — “GNX”
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CLIPSE & Kendrick Lamar — “Chains & Whips”
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Tyler, The Creator — “Darling, I”
BEST MELODIC RAP PERFORMANCE
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Kendrick Lamar & SZA — “Luther”
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Drake & PARTYNEXTDOOR — “Somebody Loves Me”
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Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon (feat. Rapsody) — “WEMAJ”
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JID (feat. Ty Dolla $ign & 6lack) — “Wholeheartedly”
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Fridayy & Meek Mill — “Proud of Me”
This year’s Grammy rap nominations prove that the genre remains bold, thoughtful, and ever-evolving. With Kendrick’s nine nominations and CLIPSE’s five, the bar for excellence has been raised once again. The only question left is who will take home the trophies in February.