2027 Grammy Predictions: Global, Reggae, and African Music Categories
Expert analysis on potential nominees for the upcoming 2027 Grammy Awards ceremony.
1Grammy Category Expansion
The Recording Academy has expanded its global and regional music fields to 11 total categories, including the new best Latin song award. This shift reflects the increasing international influence of non-Western music genres. Analysts are now evaluating the frontrunners for the 2027 ceremony across four specific global, African, and reggae music categories.
2Global Music Album Contenders
African artists remain dominant in the best global music album category, with potential nominations for Angélique Kidjo, Tems, Davido, and Asake. Anitta, a Brazilian pop powerhouse, is also a strong contender following her Latin Grammy success. Previous winners like Matt B and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra could return with their latest collaborative project.
3Global Performance Frontrunners
The best global music performance category features a highly anticipated collaboration between Shakira and Burna Boy titled 'Dai Dai'. This track dominated the Billboard Global 200 for seven weeks in 2026. Other potential nominees include Rosalía with 'Porcelana' and established Grammy favorites like Angélique Kidjo, who holds four nominations in this specific field.
4Reggae Album Race Dynamics
Destin Conrad is a notable contender for best reggae album with his project 'Roadrunner', which reached number five on the Reggae Albums chart. He faces stiff competition from industry veterans like Ziggy Marley, Shaggy, and Protoje. The category continues to highlight a mix of dancehall-infused projects and traditional reggae sounds from established icons.
5African Music Performance Trends
Tems and Tyla remain the primary figures in the best African music performance category, which has existed for three years. Tems is favored for her track 'Big Daddy', while Tyla’s collaboration 'Body Go' with MOLIY is also expected to secure a nomination. These artists continue to define the sound of modern Afrobeats globally.
6Notable Collaborative Efforts
Collaborations are defining the 2027 Grammy race, particularly in the African music field. Tracks like 'Aye Kan' by Angélique Kidjo and Ayra Starr, and 'Jogodo' by Wizkid and Asake, are positioned as strong nominees. These partnerships demonstrate the industry's focus on cross-generational and cross-regional musical alliances to maximize reach and critical acclaim.
7Controversy and Eligibility
The Recording Academy faces ongoing scrutiny regarding eligibility criteria for global categories. Last year, the track 'Shake It to the Max' was ruled ineligible, sparking debate over the definition of indigenous traditions. This year, voters are expected to be more cautious, potentially favoring established artists and high-profile collaborations to avoid similar controversies during the nomination process.
8Anticipating the Final List
As the nomination announcement approaches, the focus remains on artists who have successfully bridged local sounds with global streaming success. While veterans like Shaggy and Kidjo provide stability, emerging stars like Conrad and Asake represent the evolving landscape. The final list will likely reflect a balance between commercial dominance and artistic innovation.
Original article: Billboard — 2027 Grammy Predictions: Global, Reggae, and African Music Categories