Zach Top and Brandi Carlile Shine in 2026 Grammy Nominations

The nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards have spotlighted the talent emerging from Washington State, with both Zach Top and Brandi Carlile earning significant recognition. Announced on Friday, the nominations highlighted Top’s rapid rise in the country music scene, with the singer-songwriter securing three nominations, including two for his hit song “I Never Lie.” The awards ceremony is scheduled for February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Top, who hails from Sunnyside and Pasco, has made a substantial impact in Nashville over the past 18 months. His sophomore album, “Ain’t In It for My Health,” is nominated for best traditional country album, marking a notable achievement for the artist. His nominations reflect a growing appreciation within the industry for his unique blend of traditional country sounds.

Carlile, a Grammy veteran, continues to impress with her collaborations. She received two nominations for her work with Elton John on their joint album “Who Believes in Angels?” The album is nominated for best traditional pop album, while their single “Never Too Late” contends for best song written for visual media. Carlile’s latest solo album, “Returning to Myself,” will be eligible for the next Grammy cycle, adding to her already substantial accolades.

While Washington’s musical landscape celebrates these nominations, not all local artists experienced the same recognition. Benson Boone, known for his energetic performances and hit song “Beautiful Things,” was notably absent from this year’s nominations. His previous Grammy nod for best new artist in 2025 did not lead to further recognition, despite his growing popularity as a live performer.

The Grammy nominations also featured several other prominent names from Washington. Dimitriy Lipay, a seven-time Grammy winner, is nominated for producer of the year and best classical compendium for his work on the album “Ortiz: Yanga.” The Seattle-based vocal quartet säje received a nomination for best arrangement, instrument and vocals for their collaboration with jazz drummer Nate Smith on “Big Fish.”

Jazz ensemble The Westerlies also earned a nomination in the best arrangement category for their track “Fight On,” showcasing the vibrant jazz scene in Seattle. Additionally, Bellevue’s Ganesh Rajagopalan received two nominations for his contributions to the global music genre with the fusion band Shakti. Their work blends progressive jazz and Indian classical music, further diversifying the musical offerings from the region.

Video game composer Wilbert Roget II is recognized for best score for video games and other interactive media with “Helldivers 2,” reflecting the growing intersection of music and gaming. In a unique category, the visual artists behind the cover art for Perfume Genius’ “Glory” album are nominated for the new best album cover category, highlighting the importance of visual artistry in music.

The nominations illustrate the rich tapestry of talent emerging from Washington, underscoring both the individual achievements of artists like Top and Carlile and the collaborative spirit that defines the local music scene. As the Grammy Awards approach, anticipation builds for the recognition of these artists’ contributions to the industry.