While there are many moments in the music calendar that are anticipated highly, none stand to provide the iconic moments and career-defining wins quite like The GRAMMYs. And now, ahead of the 64th Annual Awards in 2022, we have been given a first taste of what we can expect, as the institutions unveil 2022’s nominees.

Standing as a year of firsts, the likes of Saweetie, Selena Gomez and Olivia Rodrigo are being recognised by the awards for the first time this year, an honour of which they are all deserving of. And, as for some of the most coveted categories, while their personal feud may be over, Drake and Kanye’s Certified Lover Boy and DONDA find themselves in competition for the title of Best Rap Album this year as well as Doja Cat and Olivia Rodrigo both finding their stellar album’s in the running for Album of the Year. Also, a massive shout out to Tyler, The Creator for grabbing nominations for Best Melodic Rap Performance and Best Rap Album.

As for the song of 2021, a tune that got us through countless lockdowns and truly turbulent times, the likes of “drivers licence”, “Happier Than Ever”, “MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)”, “Peaches” and “Leave The Door Open” couldn’t be more fitting of recognition. And, who would we be if we didn’t take a moment moment to celebrate the history made during this year’s nominations. With Olivia Rodrigo standing as the most decorated first-time nominee this year, with 7 nominations, and Jon Batiste, Justin Bieber and Doja Cat all receiving multiple nods, it becomes clear that the upcoming festivities will be memorable, to say the least.

And, what are the GRAMMYs without a bit of drama? Following on from previous snubs and a vow to never submit his work for consideration again, The Weeknd finds himself in the running for a win in the Best Melodic Rap Performances category, as Kanye West’s track “Hurricane”, a track which he and Lil Baby feature on, receives a nomination.