Grammys 2026 Performers: Sabrina Carpenter & All Best New Artist Nominees to Perform

The lineup for the 2026 Grammy Awards has expanded significantly. Following the initial announcement of Sabrina Carpenter, the Recording Academy has confirmed that all eight Best New Artist nominees will take the stage in a special segment, solidifying a new tradition for the ceremony.

With the show set to return to the Crypto.com Arena on February 1, audiences can expect a night that balances superstar power with a dedicated showcase for music’s brightest rising stars.

Sabrina Carpenter Leads the Charge

Carpenter remains a headline act for the evening. Currently enjoying a massive wave of success, the “Manchild” singer is nominated for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year (Man’s Best Friend).

Grammys 2026 Performers — *Photo via Sabrina Carpenter (@sabrinacarpenter)*

This performance marks a victory lap for Carpenter, who won Best Pop Solo Performance (“Espresso”) and Best Pop Vocal Album (Short n’ Sweet) in previous years. She is expected to bring her signature showgirl-inspired flair back to the Grammy stage after her debut performance last year.

Best New Artist Showcase: A Returning Tradition

Just when fans thought the lineup couldn’t get more exciting, the Recording Academy confirmed that for the second year in a row, the Best New Artist category will be highlighted in a major way.

In 2025, every nominee in this category performed (including Chappell Roan and Doechii), a move that was widely praised. That format returns for 2026, with a diverse slate of performers ready to prove why they are already iconic.

The Best New Artist Performance Lineup:

Addison Rae

The pop sensation has silenced skeptics with her debut album Addison. After being snubbed at other awards shows, she arrives at the Grammys in full force. Fans are hopeful to hear her hit “Diet Pepsi” live.

Leon Thomas

A heavy hitter with six nominations this year (including Album of the Year for MUTT), Thomas is the creative force behind many industry hits. He competes for Best R&B Album and Song in addition to his Best New Artist nod.

KATSEYE

The global girl group has had a meteoric rise with their EP Beautiful Chaos. Known for hits like “Gnarly” and the nominated track “Gabriela,” they represent a major return for girl groups on the global stage.

Olivia Dean

The British “It-girl” brings her soulful sound from her sophomore album, The Art of Loving. Tracks like “Man I Need” have kept her on heavy rotation throughout the year.

Alex Warren

His breakout year includes the massive hit “Ordinary,” which spent 10 weeks at No. 1 on Billboard. He joins the lineup as a testament to the power of viral success translating to industry acclaim.

The Marías

Following a stunning festival run at Coachella and Lollapalooza, critics and fans recognize the band for their dreamy alternative sound on the album Submarine.

Lola Young

The singer-songwriter had a knockout year with her viral hit “Messy” and her album I’m Only Fucking Myself, earning her a spot on the stage.

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A breakthrough artist whose debut album I Barely Know Her produced three Billboard Hot 100 hits (“12 to 12,” “back to friends,” “undressed”).

What to Expect: A Return to Grandeur

After the Recording Academy pivoted the 2025 show to focus on wildfire relief efforts, the 2026 ceremony signals a return to the traditional grandeur of the Grammys. Returning to the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, this year’s broadcast aims to celebrate a full “return to normalcy.”

Recording Academy CEO and President Harvey Mason Jr. teased that the night will be one for the books. “I think we will see some history-making moments,” Mason told the Associated Press. “With artists being nominated in categories they haven’t been previously nominated in… I think we’re going to see some really exciting results.”

Trevor Noah’s Final Bow

Adding to the emotional weight of the evening, comedian Trevor Noah will host the show for the sixth—and final—consecutive time. A nominee this year in the audiobook category for Into The Uncut Grass, Noah earns praise for his ability to balance humor with a genuine love for the artists.

*Photo via Mainstay Entertainment (@mainstayentertainment)*

Star-Studded Nominees

While the performance lineup is filling up, the competition for the trophies remains fierce. Kendrick Lamar leads the pack with nine nominations, followed closely by Lady Gaga (7) and Bad Bunny (6).

The mix of veterans and the now-confirmed Best New Artist performers sets the stage for unique collaborations and a high-energy night.

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