Who is going to win the Big Four categories at the Grammys? In two words, Olivia Rodrigo. Maybe.
If she does, she will repeat a feat accomplished by only two others — Billie Eilish in 2020 and Christopher Cross in 1981.
Here are my predictions:
Album of the year
Nominees: "We Are," Jon Batiste; "Love for Sale," Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga; "Justice (Triple Chucks Deluxe)," Justin Bieber; "Planet Her (Deluxe)," Doja Cat; "Happier Than Ever," Billie Eilish; "Back of My Mind," H.E.R.; "Montero," Lil Nas X; "Sour," Olivia Rodrigo; "Evermore," Taylor Swift; "Donda," Kanye West.
Perennial favorite (and last year's winner) Swift is a dark horse this time with Rodrigo and Eilish, the new Oscar winner, in a two-horse race. Bet on Rodrigo. She deserves this prize.
Record of the year
"I Still Have Faith in You," ABBA; "Freedom," Jon Batiste; "I Get a Kick Out of You," Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga; "Peaches," Justin Bieber featuring Daniel Caesar & Giveon; "Right on Time," Brandi Carlile; "Kiss Me More," Doja Cat featuring SZA; "Happier Than Ever," Billie Eilish; "Montero (Call Me by Your Name)," Lil Nas X; "Drivers License," Olivia Rodrigo; "Leave the Door Open," Silk Sonic.
A Vegas betting line gives the best odds for the sentimental favorites, Bennett and Gaga. My money is on Rodrigo.
Song of the year
"Bad Habits," Ed Sheeran; "A Beautiful Noise," Alicia Keys & Brandi Carlile; "Drivers License," Olivia Rodrigo; "Fight for You," H.E.R.; "Happier Than Ever," Billie Eilish; "Kiss Me More," Doja Cat featuring SZA; "Leave the Door Open," Silk Sonic; "Montero (Call Me by Your Name)," Lil Nas X; "Peaches," Justin Bieber featuring Daniel Caesar & Giveon; "Right on Time," Brandi Carlile.
Remember this is a songwriting award and Grammy voters respect the craft of Carlile and H.E.R., both multiple winners in recent years. But "Drivers License" brilliantly captures teen life. Give the trophy to Rodrigo, who turned 19 in February.
Best new artist
Arooj Aftab; Jimmie Allen; Baby Keem; Finneas; Glass Animals; Japanese Breakfast; the Kid Laroi; Arlo Parks; Olivia Rodrigo; Saweetie.
Is there any question? Bet your house on Rodrigo.
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