As the anticipation builds for the Grammy nominations on November 8, Rolling Stone is dissecting the landscape of the awards, predicting nominees and winners across 13 categories. In the Best Rap Album category, a clash between Atlanta trap and traditionalist West Coast rap is on the horizon, but the potential return of a dormant legend—Eminem—could shake things up.
Predicted Nominees for Best Rap Album
21 Savage, American Dream
Eminem, The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)
Future & Metro Boomin, We Don’t Trust You
Megan Thee Stallion, Megan
Schoolboy Q, Blue Lips
Who Will Win?
Many experts believe Future & Metro Boomin are front-runners for their collaborative album We Don’t Trust You. With Metro nominated three times without a win and Future boasting 11 nominations and three wins, this Grammy could be pivotal for both artists. Their album showcases a seamless blend of their distinctive styles, featuring hits like “Like That” and the Travis Scott collaboration “Type Shit.” Despite this momentum, Carl Chery, Spotify’s Head of Urban Music, warns that their underwhelming Grammy history may hinder their chances.
Who Should Win?
Schoolboy Q’s album Blue Lips is touted as the best choice among likely nominees. The project features vibrant lyricism and engaging production, with standout tracks such as “Blueslides” and “THank god 4 me.” Despite a sparse discography, Schoolboy has a significant Grammy history, with previous nominations for two of his solo albums and collaborations with Kendrick Lamar. Chery believes his affiliation with Top Dawg Entertainment could boost his chances, stating, “Schoolboy hasn’t won, but TDE has such a great track record at the Grammys.”
Forecasting the Field
Chery notes that the Best Rap Album category may ultimately reflect the personal preferences of Grammy voters. “If you prefer trap, you’ll lean toward Future and Metro. If you favor a more traditional sound, you might choose Q,” he explains. However, Eminem’s The Death of Slim Shady could emerge as a dark horse. Having not been nominated since 2019, his latest album has received positive reception and commercial success, appealing to a younger audience as well. Chery also suggests keeping an eye on the potential nomination of Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign’s Vultures album.
With the Grammy nominations approaching, the competition for Best Rap Album is heating up, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the final list and the outcome on Grammy night.
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