The Spotify Best New Artist Grammy Party triumphantly returned in 2026, showcasing a vibrant roster of emerging talent and reaffirming its status as a pivotal event during Grammy Week. After a year's absence due to the devastating Eaton and Palisades wildfires, the celebration brought together artists, executives, and creators in a testament to the music community's resilience and passion.
Celebrating Emerging Voices: A Night of Musical Triumphs
The Grand Comeback: Spotify's Best New Artist Party Resurfaces
After a forced hiatus in the previous year, the highly anticipated Spotify Best New Artist Grammy party made a remarkable return in 2026. This gathering, a distinctive highlight of Grammy Week, celebrated new and exciting musical talents, symbolizing a strong comeback for the music industry after facing natural disasters.
A Stellar Lineup: All Eight Nominees Shine
The event proudly featured all eight acts nominated for Best New Artist. Leon Thomas, Lola Young, The Marias, Alex Warren, KATSEYE, Sombr, Addison Rae, and Olivia Dean each delivered captivating performances, presenting sets of three to four songs to an appreciative audience of approximately 1,500 industry executives, fellow artists, and creators.
Notable Attendees: Industry Leaders and Emerging Stars Gather
Among the distinguished guests were prominent figures like Yungblud, Lewis Capaldi, and Pusha T, alongside 2025's best new artist nominees, Benson Boone and Shaboozey. Also spotted was KJ Apa, embodying his alter ego, Mr. Fantasy, who received a special acknowledgment during Alex Warren's performance.
Leon Thomas: Kicking Off the Evening with Acclaimed Hits
Leon Thomas, uniquely nominated in general categories this year for his groundbreaking album Mutt, opened the show. His performance concluded with the album's signature track, marking a powerful start to the night's musical journey.
Lola Young's Intimate Return: A Resilient Performance
Lola Young followed, delivering a deeply personal and intimate set, accompanied by only a piano and acoustic guitar. Her performance marked her first public appearance since an incident in September at All Things Go in New York, a challenge she openly addressed, assuring the crowd of her recovery and renewed spirit.
Diverse Performances: From Dream Pop to Raucous Beats
The evening continued with diverse musical expressions. The Marias, led by Maria Zardoya, enchanted with their dream pop, performing "No One Noticed," while Alex Warren showcased his summer hit contender, "Ordinary." KATSEYE impressed with synchronized choreography and hits like "Gabriela" and "M.I.A.", and Sombr delivered the night's most energetic set, celebrating his hits like "12 to 12" and "Back to Friends."
Addison Rae's Bold Act and Olivia Dean's Triumphant Close
Addison Rae captivated the audience with a bold performance, shedding layers as she performed "Fame is a Gun" and "Diet Pepsi," adding a playful touch to her act. Olivia Dean, currently experiencing significant success with an upcoming arena tour, brought the night to a spectacular close, leaving the audience energized with her viral hits "So Easy to Fall in Love" and "Man I Need," setting the stage for an exciting Grammy weekend.
Looking Ahead: Grammy Week's Continuing Festivities
With the Spotify event successfully concluded, attention now turns to other major Grammy Week events. These include the MusiCares Person of the Year Gala, honoring Mariah Carey, and the Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Gala, promising further celebrations of musical excellence.
