The 57th Grammy Awards: Pop Category Predictions
The pop category is where things get a little more interesting because unless you’ve lived under a rock, you’ve heard every nominee at least 10 times in the given year. That means that every member on the academy is actually somewhat qualified to pick the best albums and songs from the chosen nominees. Now, let’s see if I can actually peg this right.
Best Pop Vocal Album
Probably going to: “My Everything” by Ariana Grande or “In The Lonely Hour” by Sam Smith
This one will probably be extremely close. Both Grande and Smith are equally matched in terms of vocal ability and both had amazing years in 2014. Grande’s edge is the incredible collaborations featured on “My Everything.” Smith’s edge is his classic style and soulful lyricism. I’m leaning towards Grande, simply because I think her record embodies more of a contemporary pop feel, whereas Smith’s record could easily feel at home in the R&B category. We’ll see how the academy leans, but there is no question that both deserve the award.
Personal favorite: “My Everything” by Ariana Grande
She may or may not be a diva, but I love my girl, Ariana. Her record has been on repeat since it came out. Her collaborations with Childish Gambino, Cashmere Cat, and The Weeknd are all flawless. I cannot even begin to sum up how many times I’ve tried to hit all the crazy high notes in her vocal range. Beautiful record. Quality pop music at its best. Besides, ain’t nothing wrong with a diva every once in a while.
I will riot in the streets if it goes to: “Bangerz” by Miley Cyrus
Full disclosure: I have not heard this album in full. It could be terrible. It could be the best thing since sliced bread. Regardless, I have no desire to see Miley Cyrus win this award. Not a fan. I did not like “We Can’t Stop”. I did not like “Wrecking Ball”. I did not like her disregard for the objectification of black women in her music video and VMA performance. End of Story. She can keep doing her thing wherever she wants, but I do not want to see her take home this award. That is all.
Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
Probably going to: “Bang Bang” by Jessie J, Ariana Grande, and Nicki Minaj or “Say Something” by A Great Big World feat. Christina Aguilera
I’m gonna be really surprised if this award does not go to “Bang Bang” because it was a powerhouse kind of song. It was a wonderful collaboration of the biggest contemporary female divas in the industry and perfectly captured the essence of each individual artist in one banger of a track. The only real competitor I see for “Bang Bang” is “Say Something” because of its sheer emotional weight and Aguilera’s pop legend status. However, “Say Something” was TOO sad to win over everyone. Literally, I can’t listen to that song without wanting to cry myself to sleep, it’s maddening.
Personal favorite: “Bang Bang” by Jessie J, Ariana Grande, and Nicki Minaj
Do I even have to say it? BANG BANG into the room, yall. Love it.