The Grammy Awards aren't always known for surprises, but the Best New Artist Category is always one to watch. On Monday night, after a performance celebrating Lionel Richie, Meghan Trainor wins Best New Artist at the 2016 Grammy Awards. Congratulations are certainly in order!
She sobbed through her speech, as could be expected for a first time Grammy winner. "I'm a mess, I'm sorry," she began. Trainor spoke about the importance of being recognized as an artist and not just a songwriter. She originally pursued a more behind-the scenes role in the music industry, not thinking she could make it as a solo act — so this award must be meaningful and explains why her speech was so emotional. She thanked her team, and her parents, of course. She then left the stage to "go cry," in her own words. How adorable!
The other nominees in the category were Courtney Barnett, James Bay, Sam Hunt, and Tori Kelly. Considering that these artists are all from wildly different genres, this could not have been an easy decision for voters. Bay was also nominated for Best Rock Song and Best Rock Album. Sam Hunt, on the other hand, is also nominated for Best Country Album. For Kelly, Trainor and Barnett, this was their only nomination.
But wait, you ask, hasn't the pop star been around five-ever? How is she Best New Artist in 2016? In 2010, when Lady Gaga was snubbed in the category, the rules for eligibility changed. Before, artists who had previously been nominated for a Grammy were ineligible. Now, under the new rules, a Best New Artist nominee can be a previous nominee, as long as they have not released an album or won a Grammy in the meantime. That's why some Best New Artist nominees don't always sound like "new" artists. While Trainor was nominated twice in 2015, she didn't win, so she's in the clear, and that's why she was likely so excited tonight!
