2024 Grammys Spotlight: A Closer Look at Record of the Year Nominees

The Grammys' Record of the Year (ROTY) stands among the most prestigious categories, honoring exceptional recording quality, including the artists, producers, and sound engineers who bring a song to life. This year's race features eight nominees, mirroring the Album of the Year's (AOTY) lineup with some variations. Notably, Victoria Monét and Billie Eilish are exclusive to the ROTY nominations.

Victoria Monét's viral summer sensation, "On My Mama", marks her debut ROTY nomination as a leading artist, showcasing her songwriting prowess. Collaborating with Grammy-winning D’Mile, the R&B track highlighted the genre with Monét's versatile vocals and a smooth, dynamic production.

As a former ROTY recipient, Grammy favorite Billie Eilish returns with "What Was I Made For?", a hit that dominated the charts in 2023. Known for her introspective tracks, Eilish maintains her signature style, reinforcing her place in the hearts of Grammy voters.

The song "Not Strong Enough" from boygenius's album "the record" won listeners over with its heartfelt bridge and distinctive melody, securing a top spot on alternative charts and earning recognition beyond its rock category.

Miley Cyrus's "Flowers", from her album "Endless Summer Vacation", became an anthem of empowerment, breaking streaming records and captivating audiences with its catchy simplicity, earning a nod from the Recording Academy for its upbeat and resilient sounds.

Olivia Rodrigo follows up her previously nominated "drivers license" with another ROTY contender, "vampire". With vivid transitions and expressive vocals, the production reflects a buildup of emotions, a familiar tension from Rodrigo's past work.

Taylor Swift brings "Anti-Hero" into the ROTY spotlight, coupled with a Song of the Year nomination. Swift's successful pop return post her indie turns with "Folklore" and "Evermore" was well-received on radio and charts, bolstering her candidacy.

SZA competes with her track "Kill Bill", featuring a swing-inspired production by Carter Lang. This nomination could lead to SZA's first ROTY win as a lead artist, after previous features with "All The Stars" and "Kiss Me More" leading to nominations.

Jon Batiste re-enters the ROTY list with his song "Worship", investing in innovative production to enhance his jazz roots for an unconventional but outstanding music experience.

The 2024 Grammys ROTY category is densely packed with 2023's chart-toppers like Taylor Swift's "Anti-Hero", Miley Cyrus's "Flowers", SZA's "Kill Bill", and Billie Eilish's "What Was I Made For?" These tracks are strong contenders, making the outcome difficult to predict in a field where both consistent Grammy favorites and new breakouts shine.

Grammys, nominees, ROTY