Editor's Note: Voting and Reranking have been closed.
And the Album of the Year goes to... well, let's not jump the gun just yet! From Bad Bunny's popular album Un Verano Sin Ti to Beyoncé's sensational disco-laden RENAISSANCE, all of the best albums from the past year are featured below. International superstars Adele and Kendrick Lamar typically sweep the floor in this area (hence why their latest albums 30 and Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers remain the current front-runners); but perhaps it's someone else's time to shine at the 2023 Grammys. This year, the Recording Academy ultimately succeeded in featuring a diverse range of incredible music among the esteemed category that truly defined the past year's music scene. Which of these potential nominees will receive the 2023 Grammy Award for Album of the Year?
Vote below for your favorite albums from 2022 (and late 2021) that you believe deserve a Grammy for Album of the Year, and be sure to vote based on the quality and artistry of the studio projects rather than simply their popularity or number of streams.
What can't Beyoncé do?! Effortlessly stepping outside of her comfort zone with a bold genre-bending sixteen-track record, the sensational Queen Bey strengthens her reign through the brilliance of RENAISSANCE. The international superstar reinvents house music with her unparalleled R&B hip-hop sound, inevitably shattering even more glass ceilings while simultaneously building her empire.
Beyoncé currently holds 28 Grammy Award wins and 88 nominations under her belt.
Artist: Beyoncé
Producer: Beyoncé, Mike Dean, The-Dream, Nova Wav, Stuart White
Tracks: "BREAK MY SOUL", "SUMMER RENAISSANCE", "PLASTIC OFF THE SOFA"
Kendrick Lamar's Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers proves that he's still rap royalty and one of this generation's greatest hip-hop lyricists. The crown of thorns imagery and sac-religious idolization of the crucifixion throughout live shows may hurt his chances of winning a Grammy Award. However, Kendrick Lamar's exceptional production, vulnerable verses, raw talent, and unique narrative keep the esteemed Compton native in the running for Album of the Year.
Kendrick Lamar currently holds 14 Grammy Award wins and 47 nominations under his belt.
Artist: Kendrick Lamar
Producer: Sounwave, Oklama, Beach Noise, Bekon, J. Lbs
Tracks: "N95", "Die Hard (with Blxst & Amanda Reifer)", "Silent Hill (with Kodak Black)"
Bad Bunny's fashion sense and may be a little extreme at times, but his music is always on point. The internationally renowned Puerto Rican rapper fearlessly redefines the crossover pop/hip-hop space with his unique reggaetón sound and unparalleled boss-man energy. Although Un Verano Sin Ti's nomination for Album of the Year may seem unlikely due to the Recording Academy's nature of rarely including Spanish-language records in this category, it's still possible.
Bad Bunny currently holds 2 Grammy Award wins and 9 nominations under his belt.
Artist: Bad Bunny
Producer: MAG, La Paciencia, Albert Hype, Byrd, Bass Charity
Tracks: "Callaíta (with Tainy)", "Moscow Mule", "Después de la Playa"
There's a reason that Adele only goes by one name -- she's simply one of a kind. The soulful songstress returns to the forefront of the music industry with her emotional fourth studio album 30. The two-time Album of the Year winner's wisdom and life experience transcend generations; and when paired with vulnerable lyrics and unparalleled vocals, her music simply cannot be re-produced.
Adele currently holds 15 Grammy Award wins and 25 nominations under her belt.
Artist: Adele
Producer: Greg Kurstin, Inflo, Tobias Jesso Jr., Ludwig Göransson, Max Martin
Who hasn't listened to Harry's House yet, aka one of 2022's biggest pop music releases?! The former One Direction member's third solo studio album has been played in almost every restaurant, coffee shop, club, and barbershop since its spring release and continues to break streamings records with its lead single “As It Was.” Harry Styles remains a force to be reckoned with as he unapologetically defies gender norms and brings international fans together throughout his music.
Harry Styles currently holds 1 Grammy Award win and 9 nominations under his belt.
Artist: Harry Styles
Producer: Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson, Samuel Witte
Tracks: "As It Was", "Late Night Talking", "Matilda"
The music world's favorite body-positive diva continues to keep it real with boss b*tch energy and empowering lyrics across Special's meticulously-curated track list. Lizzo fiercely fuses disco pop with playful rhythmic rap while inevitably displaying her signature IDGAF attitude and exceptional artistry from start to finish.
Lizzo currently holds 3 Grammy Award wins and 13 nominations under her belt.
Artist: Lizzo
Producer: Ricky Reed, Ian Kirkpatrick, Max Martin, Blake Slatkin, Andrew Wansel
Tracks: "About Damn Time", "2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)", "Grrrls"
