Celebrating the 2026 GRAMMY Nominees: Reactions from Composers and Producers

The 2026 GRAMMYS nominations have just been announced, and excitement is buzzing across the music community. This year’s list highlights some remarkable talent, especially among composers and producers who have contributed to unforgettable soundtracks and instrumental works. Let’s take a closer look at the reactions from a few standout nominees whose work has resonated deeply within the industry.

Lili Haydn & Paul Cantelon for their stunning album, Lullabies for the Brokenhearted

Lullabies for the Brokenhearted  confronts the difficult subject of loss and what comes after. A powerful album that manages to channel grief, love, the memories of a lifetime, the irreplaceable soul and the light that lies and lives beyond. Haydn has been using the violin to play to those in the midst of passing away. Having done this with her own mother, amongst others, this album works through the loss of Cantelon's wife and extraordinary vocalist, Angela McCluskey.

Haydn expressed her gratitude for the nomination, saying, “I’m so grateful for the honor of being recognized by my peers, and to have my original music nominated for best chamber music album, a category almost entirely dominated by the classics, like Debussy and Shostakovich. Especially in these daunting times, connecting with the music community reminds me of my humanity and what I’m living for.”

This work is unlike any other, deep, profound, beautiful, hopeful and full of love.

Ian Eisendrath’s Nomination for Kpop Demon Hunters

Ian Eisendrath earned a nomination for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media with the Kpop Demon Hunters soundtrack. This project has received five nominations, a testament to its impact and quality. Ian produced the track “Golden” alongside a diverse group of artists including EJAE, Rei Ami, Audrey Nuna, and many others.

“What an honor to have been the Executive Music Producer for the five-time nominated KPOP DEMON HUNTERS soundtrack and to have produced ‘Golden’ in collaboration with so many incredible artists. Thank you everyone for the support!”

John Powell’s Nominations for 'Wicked' and 'How to Train Your Dragon'

John Powell received three nominations this year, a rare and impressive feat. He is up for Best Instrumental Composition for Train to Emerald City from Wicked, and Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media for both Wicked and How to Train Your Dragon.

“Typical! You wait years for a Grammy to come along and then 3 arrive all at the same time! I owe a big thank you to Universal for their never-ending support on both films and to all the amazing players and singers who give of their talents in innumerable ways. And I need to apologise to Stephen for pitting myself against us.”

Zain Effendi’s Nomination for Epcot Test Track

Zain Effendi received a nomination for Best Instrumental Composition for Epcot Test Track: Opening. “Humbled beyond words. Grateful to the Academy for this nomination - and to my phenomenal music team who turned every note into magic. I’ll remember this day for the rest of my life.”

Support the Nominees and Their Work

Don’t forget to vote and support these talented composers and producers. Their dedication and creativity deserve recognition, and we wish them all the best for their categories!