Predicting Grammy Nominations: Record of the Year

59^th Annual Grammy nomination predictions: Adele (“Hello”) seems like the safest bet for a Record of the Year nomination.   

The announcement of the Grammy nominees for the 59^th Annual Grammy Awards inches closer and closer.  With the date nearing who might nab a nomination for the coveted Record of the Year.  There are lots of terrific, eligible records from late 2015 and 2016.  That said, Adele (“Hello”) seems like the safest bet to earn a nomination in this category.  

1. Adele, “Hello” (25)

The safest bet for record of the year lies in the hands of Grammy darling, Adele.  “Hello” is pitch-perfect, appealing to a wide audience as well as being well-produced.  There were songs with longer reigns at no. 1 on the Hot 100 and many memorable records in late 2015 and throughout 2016, but “Hello” is likely still the one to beat. 

2. Lukas Graham, “7 Years” (Lukas Graham)

Earlier in 2016, “7 Years” had much more momentum.  Arguably, it’s waned a bit, but still a memorable, highly respectable pop record.  Beyond being an exceptional pop record, it also has wide appeal. The question is, would voters award the newbies with such a coveted award this early into their careers? Not over Adele…just saying.

3. The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey, “Closer” (Collage EP)

The momentum has increased tremendously for “Closer.” It’s simply inescapable.  This is much like The Black Eyed Peas’ forever reigning “I’ve Gotta Feeling.”  It should be respected enough to earn a nomination, but potentially winning the Grammy itself seems slimmer.

4. The Weeknd ft. Daft Punk, “Starboy”  (Starboy)

It is a toss-up whether or not “Starboy” sees a nomination, particularly since Starboy (the album) arrives after the end of the eligibility period.  The Weeknd has been nominated previously for another megahit, “Can’t Feel My Face,” so it’s not far-fetched.  Furthermore, having Grammy winners Daft Punk as featured guests doesn’t hurt.  Still, no shot against Adele.

5. Drake ft. Kyla & WizKid, “One Dance” (Views)

Like The Chainsmokers – should they be nominated – a Drake nomination for “One Dance” feels more like an obligation.  It’s not a bad song in the least, but it’s also not the greatest record either. If the assumption is that Views is nominated for album of the year, it would seem “One Dance” has a shot for a nomination in the record category.  Song seems unlikely… 

Other Possiblilities 

1. Sia ft. Sean Paul, “Cheap Thrills” (This Is Acting)

Sia has a legit shot at a record of the year nomination. It’s not a done deal, but quite possible.

2. Justin Bieber, “Love Yourself” (Purpose)

This feels more appropriate for song of the year.  Arguably, “Sorry” or “What Do You Mean” could earn a nod, but it’s been a while since those records peaked.

3. Thomas Rhett, “Die A Happy Man” (Tangled Up)

Like Justin Bieber (“Love Yourself”), Rhett’s song seems more fitting in the song of the year category.  Still, it has a shot.

4. Rihanna ft. Drake, “Work” (Anti)

“Work” was a very popular no. 1 hit.  Still, is it Grammy-worthy for record of the year?

Photo Credit: Columbia