Grammy predictions in dance/electronic categories: Charli XCX’s ‘Brat’ too big to fail?

Typically, the dance/electronic field at the Grammys is pretty easy to predict. Last year it was obvious that Fred Again was ahead of the competition, with four nominations overall. The year before Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” was the predictable winner, as it was far and away the most popular and acclaimed album in the lineup. However, this year is more interesting. While there’s one big neon green lock, there are a lot of possibilities in the other category, with perhaps the threat of a veteran act pulling off a surprise win.

Let’s start with Charli XCX, whose “Brat” is up for Best Dance/Electronic Album. She is easily the frontrunner, with “Brat” being the biggest popular hit in the lineup, as well as the most critically acclaimed album of the year. The album received nine nominations overall, including Album of the Year. Another serious contender is Justice for their album “Hyperdrama.” The record was one of the most hyped releases of the year in the dance world, and they’re previous winners for Best Dance/Electronic Album (“Woman Worldwide” in 2019). Their Tame Impala-assisted track “Neverender” is also nominated for Best Dance/Electronic Recording. While the band might not win for the album with Charli in the way, “Neverender” has a strong chance in the recording race, especially with Tame Impala being overdue their first win at this point.

Two-time Grammy winner Kaytranada is also up for both dance/electronic awards with his record “Timeless.” His track “Witchy,” featuring Childish Gambino, stands out in the five-nominee recording lineup with its R&B sensibilities, much like Kaytranada’s winning “10%” in 2021. Gambino being a Grammy favorite could also help. However, perhaps the highest-profile song in the category, and the possible frontrunner, is Fred Again’s “leavemealone,” featuring Baby Keem. The Brit star swept the field last year, so voters may still be in their honeymoon period with the relative newcomer. The song is also produced by field favorite Skrillex, who won with Fred last year, as well as fellow nominee this year Four Tet. And speaking of Four Tet, he’s also up for both awards this year with his song “Loved” and album “Three.” It’s unlikely he wins, though, as ambient music doesn’t usually play well at the Grammys.

A couple of returning nominees are also in contention. Disclosure are consistently nominated in the field, so it’s not surprising to see that they got a nomination in Best Dance/Electronic Recording for their hit “She’s Gone Dance On,” which has amassed over 50 million streams on Spotify in a short time. The group has surprisingly never won, so perhaps this is their best shot, with no clear frontrunner and a big hit. Last but not least is Zedd, whose album “Telos” is also in contention. This album, admittedly, didn’t have the pop cultural impact of his previous releases. But he’s familiar to voters, being a past field winner, and he may also have support from pop voters (as a two-time pop nominee).

Ultimately, “Brat” seems like the obvious pick in the album race, though if anyone were to upset, it would probably be Justice. As for the recording category, it’s harder to tell. Right now I’m leaning towards “leavemealone.” It’s a way to honor two of the other nominees in the category, and it’s hard to go against the biggest hit here when it’s by the reigning champ. The dark horse might be Justice there too.

Best Dance/Electronic Album
Will win: “Brat” by Charli XCX
Could win: “Hyperdrama” by Justice

Best Dance/Electronic Recording
Will win: Fred Again feat. Baby Keem, “leavemealone”
Could win: Justice and Tame Impala, “Neverender”