The music industry is buzzing as the nominees for the 2026 American Music Awards (AMAs) have been unveiled, with global superstar Taylor Swift leading the pack with an impressive eight nominations. CBS and Dick Clark Productions announced the full list of contenders on Tuesday, signaling another year of fierce competition and potential record-breaking achievements for the acclaimed artist. Swift’s dominance at the AMAs is a continuation of her unparalleled success, having already cemented her status as the most-awarded artist in the show’s history with a staggering 40 wins.
Swift’s eight nominations span several of the most prestigious categories, including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for her critically acclaimed release The Life of a Showgirl, and Song of the Year for the evocative track The Fate of Ophelia. This recognition underscores Swift’s consistent ability to captivate audiences and critics alike, further solidifying her position at the pinnacle of contemporary music.
A Closely Contested Race for Second Place
While Swift stands out at the top, a formidable quartet of artists is locked in a tight race for second place, each securing seven nominations. Country music phenomenon Morgan Wallen, pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter, the rising star Olivia Dean, and the enigmatic artist Sombr are all vying for major awards, demonstrating the diverse landscape of today’s music scene.
Sabrina Carpenter is a strong contender in the key categories of Artist, Album, and Song of the Year. Her nominated album, Man’s Best Friend, and its lead single, "Manchild," have resonated widely with fans, propelling her into contention for top honors. Morgan Wallen is also a significant presence, with his album I’m The Problem and its titular track earning him nominations in the same highly coveted categories.
Olivia Dean and Sombr are both making their mark as first-time nominees in the fiercely competitive New Artist of the Year category. Dean’s recognition extends to Album of the Year for her breakout project The Art of Loving and Song of the Year for her heartfelt single "Man I Need." Sombr is also recognized for Song of the Year with their track "back to friends." The inclusion of these artists highlights the AMAs’ commitment to celebrating emerging talent alongside established superstars.
A Wave of New Talent and Notable Mentions
Beyond the frontrunners, the 2026 AMA nominations showcase a vibrant array of new artists and established names across various genres. Joining Olivia Dean and Sombr in the New Artist of the Year category are Alex Warren, BigXthaPlug, KATSEYE, Leon Thomas, PinkPantheress, RAYE, Role Model, and Tate McRae, signaling a promising future for the music industry.
A unique and exciting nomination comes from the world of anime-inspired music. EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, the vocal talents behind the characters Huntr/X in KPop Demon Hunters, are recognized for their song "Golden" in the Song of the Year, Best Vocal Performance, and Best Pop Song categories. This cross-genre recognition speaks to the evolving nature of music consumption and the AMAs’ embrace of diverse artistic expressions.
The American Music Awards: A Fan-Driven Celebration
The American Music Awards, a cornerstone of the music awards calendar, are distinguished by their unique voting system: winners are determined entirely by fan participation. This democratic approach ensures that the awards truly reflect the preferences and engagement of the music-loving public. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on May 25th at the iconic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, with the acclaimed Queen Latifah set to host the festivities. Voting is now officially open, allowing fans to cast their ballots and influence the outcome of this year’s awards.
Founded by Dick Clark Productions, the AMAs have a rich history of celebrating musical achievements across all genres. Dick Clark Productions is a subsidiary of Penske Media Corporation, which also owns The Hollywood Reporter, highlighting the strong connection between major media entities and the music industry’s premier events.
Key Categories and Nominees Unveiled
The complete list of nominees offers a comprehensive look at the year’s most impactful music and artists:
Artist of the Year
This premier category features a diverse lineup of global superstars, including Bad Bunny, Bruno Mars, BTS, Harry Styles, Justin Bieber, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Morgan Wallen, Sabrina Carpenter, and Taylor Swift. The breadth of genres represented underscores the dynamic nature of today’s music landscape.
New Artist of the Year
The future of music is on full display with nominations for Alex Warren, Ella Langley, KATSEYE, Leon Thomas, Olivia Dean, and Sombr. This category is always a strong indicator of emerging trends and talent poised for mainstream success.
Album of the Year
A testament to artistic vision and popular appeal, the Album of the Year nominees include Cardi B’s AM I THE DRAMA?, Fuerza Regida’s 111xpantia, Justin Bieber’s SWAG, Lady Gaga’s Mayhem, Morgan Wallen’s I’m The Problem, Olivia Dean’s The Art of Loving, Playboi Carti’s MUSIC, Sabrina Carpenter’s Man’s Best Friend, Tate McRae’s So Close To What, and Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl.
Song of the Year
This category celebrates the most impactful lyrical and melodic achievements of the year. Nominees include Alex Warren’s "Ordinary," Ella Langley’s "Choosin’ Texas," the HUNTR/X singers’ "Golden," Kehlani’s "Folded," Leon Thomas’s "MUTT," Morgan Wallen’s "I’m The Problem," Olivia Dean’s "Man I Need," Sabrina Carpenter’s "Manchild," Sombr’s "back to friends," and Taylor Swift’s "The Fate of Ophelia."
Collaboration of the Year
Highlighting the power of musical partnerships, this category features BigXthaPlug and Bailey Zimmerman’s "All The Way," David Guetta, Teddy Swims, and Tones And I’s "Gone Gone Gone," Morgan Wallen and Tate McRae’s "What I Want," PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson’s "Stateside," and Shaboozey and Jelly Roll’s "Amen."
Social Song of the Year
Recognizing songs that have achieved significant traction and engagement on social media platforms, this category includes Disco Lines and Tinashe’s "No Broke Boys," PinkPantheress’s "Illegal," Role Model’s "Sally, When The Wine Runs Out," Tyla’s "CHANEL," and Zara Larsson’s "Lush Life."
Best Music Video
Visual artistry is celebrated with nominations for KATSEYE’s "Gnarly," ROSALÍA, Björk, and Yves Tumor’s "Berghain," Sabrina Carpenter’s "Manchild," Taylor Swift’s "The Fate of Ophelia," and Tyla’s "CHANEL."
Best Soundtrack
This category acknowledges the significant contributions of music to film and television. Nominees include F1 The Album, Hazbin Hotel: Season Two, KPop Demon Hunters, Wicked: For Good, and Charli XCX’s Wuthering Heights.
Tour of the Year
The most impactful live performances of the year are recognized with nominations for Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour, Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s Grand National Tour, Lady Gaga’s The Mayhem Ball, Oasis’s Oasis Live ’25 Tour, and Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour.
NEW – Breakout Tour
Celebrating emerging live acts, this new category features Benson Boone’s American Heart World Tour, Kali Uchis’s The Sincerely, Tour, The Marías’ Submarine Tour, Megan Moroney’s Am I Okay? Tour, and Sleep Token’s Even in Arcadia Tour.
NEW – Breakthrough Album of the Year
This new award highlights albums that have made a significant impact from emerging artists, with Olivia Dean’s The Art of Loving, Sombr’s I Barely Know Her, and Zara Larsson’s Midnight Sun receiving nominations.
NEW – Best Throwback Song
A nostalgic nod to beloved classics, this new category includes 4 Non Blondes’ "What’s Up," Black Eyed Peas’ "Rock That Body," and Goo Goo Dolls’ "Iris."
NEW – Best Vocal Performance
This new award recognizes exceptional vocal talent across various styles. Nominees are Alex Warren’s "Ordinary," the HUNTR/X singers’ "Golden," Lady Gaga’s "Abracadabra," RAYE’s "WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!," and SIENNA SPIRO’s "Die on this Hill."
NEW – Song of the Summer
This new category aims to capture the quintessential sound of the summer season, with nominations for Alex Warren’s "FEVER DREAM," Bella Kay’s "iloveitiloveitiloveit," BTS’s "SWIM," Ella Langley’s "Choosin’ Texas," Harry Styles’ "American Girls," Noah Kahan’s "The Great Divide," PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson’s "Stateside," Sombr’s "Homewrecker," Tame Impala and JENNIE’s "Dracula," and Taylor Swift’s "Elizabeth Taylor."
Genre-Specific Showdowns
The AMAs also honor excellence within specific musical genres, leading to exciting competitions across Pop, Country, Hip-Hop, R&B, Latin, Rock/Alternative, Dance/Electronic, K-Pop, Afrobeats, and Americana/Folk.
Pop Categories
In the Best Male Pop Artist category, Alex Warren, Benson Boone, Ed Sheeran, Harry Styles, and Justin Bieber are nominated. For Best Female Pop Artist, the contenders are Lady Gaga, Olivia Dean, Sabrina Carpenter, Tate McRae, and Taylor Swift. Breakthrough Pop Artist nominees include KATSEYE, SIENNA SPIRO, and Zara Larsson. The Best Pop Song award sees nominations for Alex Warren’s "Ordinary," the HUNTR/X singers’ "Golden," Olivia Dean’s "Man I Need," Sabrina Carpenter’s "Manchild," and Taylor Swift’s "The Fate of Ophelia." Finally, the Best Pop Album nominees are Lady Gaga’s Mayhem, Olivia Dean’s The Art of Loving, Sabrina Carpenter’s Man’s Best Friend, Tate McRae’s So Close To What, and Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl.
Country Categories
The Best Male Country Artist nominees are Jelly Roll, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Riley Green, and Shaboozey. Best Female Country Artist features Ella Langley, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, Megan Moroney, and Miranda Lambert. Best Country Duo or Group nominations go to Brooks & Dunn, Old Dominion, Rascal Flatts, Treaty Oak Revival, and Zac Brown Band. The Breakthrough Country Artist award recognizes Sam Barber, Tucker Wetmore, and Zach Top. For Best Country Song, the nominees are BigXthaPlug and Bailey Zimmerman’s "All The Way," Ella Langley’s "Choosin’ Texas," Morgan Wallen’s "Just In Case," Russell Dickerson’s "Happen To Me," and Shaboozey’s "Good News." The Best Country Album nominees are BigXthaPlug’s I Hope You’re Happy, Megan Moroney’s Cloud 9, Morgan Wallen’s I’m The Problem, Sam Barber’s Restless Mind, and Tucker Wetmore’s What Not To.
Hip-Hop Categories
In Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, the nominees are Don Toliver, Kendrick Lamar, Playboi Carti, Tyler, The Creator, and YoungBoy Never Broke Again. Best Female Hip-Hop Artist features Cardi B, Doechii, GloRilla, Sexyy Red, and YKNIECE. The Breakthrough Hip-Hop Artist award recognizes EsDeeKid, Monaleo, and PLUTO. For Best Hip-Hop Song, nominees are Cardi B’s "ErrTime," Drake’s "NOKIA," Gunna and Burna Boy’s "wgft," Playboi Carti and The Weeknd’s "Rather Lie," and YKNIECE, Quavo, Metro Boomin, and Breskii’s "Take Me Thru Dere." The Best Hip-Hop Album nominees are Cardi B’s AM I THE DRAMA?, Don Toliver’s OCTANE, Gunna’s The Last Wun, Playboi Carti’s MUSIC, and YoungBoy Never Broke Again’s MASA.
R&B Categories
The Best Male R&B Artist nominees are Bruno Mars, Chris Brown, Daniel Caesar, PARTYNEXTDOOR, and The Weeknd. Best Female R&B Artist features Kehlani, Summer Walker, SZA, Teyana Taylor, and Tyla. The Breakthrough R&B Artist award recognizes Leon Thomas, Mariah the Scientist, and Ravyn Lenae. For Best R&B Song, nominees are Bruno Mars’ "I Just Might," Chris Brown and Bryson Tiller’s "It Depends," Kehlani’s "Folded," Leon Thomas’s "MUTT," and Mariah the Scientist’s "BURNING BLUE." The Best R&B Album nominees are Bruno Mars’ The Romantic, Justin Bieber’s SWAG, Leon Thomas’s MUTT, Mariah the Scientist’s HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY, and Summer Walker’s Finally Over It.
Latin Categories
Best Male Latin Artist nominees include Bad Bunny, Junior H, Peso Pluma, Rauw Alejandro, and Tito Double P. Best Female Latin Artist features Gloria Estefan, KAROL G, Natti Natasha, ROSALÍA, and Shakira. Best Latin Duo or Group nominations go to Clave Especial, Fuerza Regida, Grupo Firme, Grupo Frontera, and Julián Álvarez y su Norteño Banda. The Breakthrough Latin Artist award recognizes Beéle, Kapo, and Netón Vega. For Best Latin Song, nominees are Bad Bunny’s "NUEVAYoL," benny blanco, Selena Gomez, and The Marías’ "Ojos Tristes," Fuerza Regida’s "Marlboro Rojo," Fuerza Regida and Grupo Frontera’s "ME JALO," and KAROL G’s "LATINA FOREVA." The Best Latin Album nominees are Fuerza Regida’s 111xpantia, KAROL G’s Tropicoqueta, Netón Vega’s Mi Vida Mi Muerte, Peso Pluma and Tito Double P’s DINASTÍA, and ROSALÍA’s Lux.
Rock/Alternative Categories
The Best Rock/Alternative Artist nominees are Deftones, Linkin Park, The Marías, Sleep Token, and Twenty One Pilots. The Breakthrough Rock/Alternative Artist award recognizes Geese, Gigi Perez, and Sombr. For Best Rock/Alternative Song, nominees are Noah Kahan’s "The Great Divide," Linkin Park’s "Up From The Bottom," Sombr’s "back to friends," Sublime’s "Ensenada," and Tame Impala’s "Dracula." The Best Rock/Alternative Album nominees are Sleep Token’s Even In Arcadia, Sombr’s I Barely Know Her, Tame Impala’s Deadbeat, Twenty One Pilots’ Breach, and Zach Bryan’s With Heaven On Top.
Other Genre Categories
Best Dance/Electronic Artist nominees include Calvin Harris, David Guetta, Fred again.., ILLENIUM, and John Summit. In K-Pop, Best Male K-Pop Artist features ATEEZ, BTS, ENHYPEN, Stray Kids, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER. Best Female K-Pop Artist nominations go to aespa, BLACKPINK, ILLIT, LE SSERAFIM, and TWICE. Best Afrobeats Artist nominees are Burna Boy, MOLIY, Rema, Tyla, and Wizkid. A new award, Best Americana/Folk Artist, recognizes Lord Huron, The Lumineers, Mumford & Sons, Noah Kahan, and Tyler Childers.
The 2026 American Music Awards promise to be a night of celebration, showcasing the diverse talent that has shaped the past year in music. With fan voting now underway, the anticipation builds for what is sure to be an unforgettable event.
