In November last year, The Recording Academy announced the nominees for the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards, but not without some controversy — The Weeknd’s snub surprised many, including the singer himself. While there were certain artistes whose nominations were expected (superstar Beyoncé took the lead with nine nominations and Dua Lipa secured six nominations for her retro-inspired album Future Nostalgia) there were also some artistes that we were not really acquainted with, and who impressively secured major nominations. So here are some superbly talented Grammy-nominated artistes of this year (in no particular

 

order) that may have flown under your radar and that you should definitely check out.

 

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1. Fiona Apple

 

Since the ’90s, Fiona Apple has been a tour de force. She has proven to be a standout act with few comparisons. Her latest record, Fetch the Bolt Cutters, is everything Apple music is known for. It’s an experience like no other. She has secured three Grammy nominations this year.

 

2. Brittany Howard

 

The lead singer of Grammy Award-winning roots-rock band ‘Alabama Shakes’ ventured into solo territory last year, and her solo debut album, Jaime, is fearlessly personal and political. She has secured five Grammy nominations for her solo debut across genres of Rock, Alternative, Roots, and R&B.

 

3. Black Pumas

 

Last year, this Texas-based psychedelic soul duo got nominated for the first time in their career for Best New Artist, alongside the likes of Billie Eilish and Lizzo. It was an accomplishment that got everyone talking and interested. A year later, this duo has made the list again, this time with three nominations: Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best American Roots Performance. The duo skillfully combines R&B and soul in their music.

 

4. Lido Pimienta

 

The Colombian-Canadian musician landed a Grammy nomination for Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album this year, and she is really a hybrid of cultures and influences. Her Grammy-nominated album Miss Columbia tackles issues like racism, misogyny, sexuality, and the concept of home in an introspective, seductive, and ever-catchy way.

 

5. HAIM

 

The Los Angeles-based pop-rock band, comprising sisters Este, Danielle, and Alana received two nominations at the 63rd Grammy awards — for Album of the Year (for Women In Music Pt. III) and Best Rock Performance (for The Steps). The trio is also known for collaborating with legendary film-maker Paul Thomas Anderson for some of their music videos, and this is a band to really look out for in the future.

 

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