Sabrina Carpenter

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“Sabrina Carpenter “When Did You Get So Hot” (Island/Republic) is spinning at KYRC”

Dan Mathews/Yuba City, CA

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As we proudly unveil this year’s New Music Awards Special Edition, we take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary artistry, innovation, and dedication that fuel today’s music landscape. Each year, the New Music Awards serve as a vibrant celebration of recording artists, radio stations, programmers, and industry professionals whose work continues to shape the soundtrack of our lives. This issue is more than a recap of achievements—it’s a tribute to the creative spirit that drives the music community forward.

The New Music Awards have long stood as a platform where both established stars and emerging voices receive recognition for their impact. From chart‑topping hits to grassroots breakthroughs, the awards highlight the full spectrum of talent influencing today’s sound. It’s a reminder of how deeply music connects us—how a single song can inspire, comfort, energize, or unite listeners across the world.

Fans now have the opportunity to make their voices heard by casting votes at New Music Awards. We encourage you to share the excitement with friends, family, and fellow music lovers—every vote truly matters. The enthusiasm so far has been remarkable, with thousands of fans already participating. Watching this level of engagement unfold on the New Music Weekly platform reinforces just how passionate our community is about supporting the artists they love.

This year’s major‑label nominees reflect the diversity and evolution of contemporary music. Standout tracks like “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga, “Anxiety” by Doechii, and “Apt.” by Rosé and Bruno Mars showcase the bold creativity driving today’s charts. Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter‘s “Manchild” and Billie Eilish‘s “Wildflower” continue to resonate with listeners, capturing the emotional depth and sonic experimentation that define this era of pop music.

The Best Male Artist category is especially dynamic this year, featuring a compelling mix of established names and rising stars. Nominees such as Alex Warren and Bad Bunny stand alongside breakout talents Benson Boone, Myles Smith, and fan‑favorite Jelly Roll. Each artist brings a distinct voice, style, and perspective, proving that male performers today are pushing creative boundaries and connecting with audiences in powerful new ways.

Our Top Female Artist nominees are equally exceptional, representing some of the most influential voices in modern music. This year’s lineup features powerhouse performers Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, and Chappell Roan, as well as the genre‑defying talents of Doechii, Lady Gaga, and Raye. Together, they embody the strength, diversity, and innovation of women in music—artists who continue to redefine what’s possible and inspire fans around the globe.

Independent artists also shine brightly in this year’s nominations, underscoring the importance of supporting emerging voices. Standouts such as Michele Betterncourt & Vampire Time of Licorice Pizza Records, Eileen Carey, John Jurney, and Lawrence Cameron McGhee demonstrate the creativity and authenticity that make the indie scene so vital. Their nominations highlight the power of storytelling, perseverance, and artistic freedom—qualities that resonate deeply with listeners and industry professionals alike.

At New Music Weekly, our mission has always been to provide the essential tools and platforms that help artists succeed. Through our online magazine, the annual New Music Awards, and the STS music tracking service, we remain committed to elevating both major‑label and independent talent. Whether it’s through exposure, analytics, or industry insight, we strive to empower musicians and support their journeys in an increasingly competitive landscape.

As voting enters its final days, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of this year’s nominees. The outcome now rests in the hands of our readers and subscribers, and with the competition incredibly close, every vote carries real weight. This is your chance to help shape the future of the New Music Awards and celebrate the artists who have made an impact on you.

Best of luck to all nominees in the 2026 New Music Awards—and thank you to the fans, stations, and industry professionals who continue to make this event such a meaningful celebration of music.

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New Music Weekly has officially revealed the nominations for the 2026 New Music Awards, kicking off another year of celebrating the artists, radio programmers, and industry professionals who help shape today’s music landscape. This year’s ballot reflects the continued rise of both chart‑topping stars and fast‑growing independent voices.

Among the major‑label standouts earning top recognition are Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, Benson Boone, and Teddy Swims—all of whom have dominated playlists, airwaves, and fan conversations throughout the past year. On the independent side, Michele Bettencourt, John Jurney, and Eileen Carey lead a diverse group of emerging and established indie artists whose momentum has been impossible to ignore.

The New Music Awards also extend beyond artists, honoring the essential contributors behind the scenes. This year’s nominations include a wide range of radio stations, program directors, music directors, and industry executives, acknowledging their ongoing commitment to breaking new music and supporting rising talent.

For the first time this cycle, fans and subscribers will play an even more active role in determining the winners. Voting is now open on the New Music Weekly website, giving music lovers the chance to directly influence the outcome of one of the industry’s most inclusive award platforms.

Meanwhile, the magazine is already in pre‑production for a special NMA Nominees Edition, which will spotlight this year’s contenders with expanded features, artist reflections, and behind‑the‑scenes insights. Nominees are encouraged to participate, and many are expected to share their excitement and achievements within this commemorative issue. Special advertising opportunities tied to the NMA nominations are now available through New Music Weekly.

Fans, artists, and industry members can explore the full list of nominees and cast their votes by visiting the NMA Ballot

Below is the complete roster of nominees for the 2026 New Music Awards:

Top40/CHR Song of the Year:
“Abracadabra” Lady Gaga
“Anxiety” Doechii
“Apt.” Rosé and Bruno Mars
“DtMF” Bad Bunny
“Manchild” Sabrina Carpenter
“Testimony” Cabela & Schmitt
“Wildflower” Billie Eilish

Top40/CHR Male Artist of the Year:
Alex Warren
Bad Bunny
Benson Boone
Myles Smith
Jelly Roll
Justin Bieber
Weeknd

Top40/CHR Female Artist of the Year:
Ariana Grande
Billie Eilish
Chappell Roan
Doechii
Lady Gaga
Raye
Sabrina Carpenter
Taylor Swift

Top40/CHR Group of the Year:
Clipse, Pusha T, and Malice
Huntr/X, Ejae, Audrey, Nuna, Rei Ami
Kendrick Lamar with SZA
Rosé and Bruno Mars

New Top40/CHR Artist/Group of the Year:
Addison Rae
Katseye
Leon Thomas
Lola Young
MGK
Olivia Dean
Sombr

Top40/CHR Breakthrough Artist of the Year:
Cabela & Schmitt
Huntr/x
Lola Young
PT The Gospel Spitter
Turnstile
Zara Larsson

Top40/CHR Radio Station of the Year:
KLQQ
KQID
KRYC
KSPI

Top40/CHR Program/Music Director of the Year:
Dan Mathews
Jason Kranz
Jim Koski
Joshua Godwin

Top40/CHR Record Label of the Year:
BMG
Columbia
Sony
Universal

AC Song of the Year:
“Holy Water” Marshmello & Jell Roll
“Love Me Not” Ravyn Lenae
“Manchild” Sabrina Carpenter
“Mystical Magical” Benson Boone
“Ordinary” Alex Warren
“Revolving Door” Tate McRae
“Undressed” Sombr
“Wildflower” Billie Eilish

AC Male Artist of the Year:
Benson Boone
John Jurney
Justin Bieber
Myles Smith
Sombr

AC Female Artist of the Year:
Ariana Grande
Billie Eilish
Chappell Roan
Eileen Carey
Ravyn Lenae
Sabrina Carpenter
Sarah Reeves

AC Group of the Year:
Alex Warren w/Rose
Harper Grace w/Kelsey Hart
Jonas Brothers
OneRepublic
Maroon 5 & Lil Wayne
Marshmello & Jell Roll
Morgan Wallen w/Tate McRae

New AC Artist/Group of the Year:
Bad Suns
Blackpink
Head And The Heart
Huntr/X
Luchino
Michele Bettencourt w/Vampire Time’s
The Grimm

AC Breakthrough Artist of the Year:
Cabela & Schmitt
DPB w/Ouiwey Collins
John Jurney
Lana Del Rey
Lawrence Cameron McGhee
Shinedown

AC Radio Station of the Year:
KKUL
Radio Max Music
WDNH
WNHE-1
WOCO

AC Program/Music Director of the Year:
Brigitte Reinert
Larry Kazynsnki
Michael Stanton
Ron Dale
Ron Kovacs

AC Record Label of the Year:
Atlantic
Sony
UMG
WMG

Country Song of the Year:
“A Song To Sing” Miranda Lambert & Chris Stapleton
“Good Times & Tan Lines” Zach Top
“I Got Better” Morgan Wallen
“Happen To Me” Russell Dickerson
“Heart Of Stone” Jelly Roll
“Nose On The Grindstone” Tyler Childers

Country Male Artist of the Year:
Blake Shelton
Jelly Roll
Luke Combs
Morgan Wallen
Rob Georg
Russell Dickerson
Zach Top

Country Female Artist of the Year:
Dasha
Kelsea Ballerini
Lainey Wilson
Margo Price
Megan Moroney
Miranda Lambert

Country Group of the Year:
Brandon Lake w/Jelly Roll
Lauren Alaina w/Chase Matthew
Megan Moroney & Kenny Chesney
Miranda Lambert & Chris Stapleton
Parmalee
Rascal Flatts & Jonas Brothers
Riley Green w/Ella Langley
Scotty McCreery w/Hootie & The Blowfish
Tim McGraw w/Parker McCollum

New Country Artist/Group of the Year:
Ella Langley
Greyland James
Gigi Perez
Hudson Westbrook
Joshua Slone
Tucker Wetmore
Zach Top

Country Breakthrough Artist of the Year:
Bailey Zimmerman
Corey Kent
Ella Langley
Megan Moroney
Riley Green
Shaboozey
Zach Bryan
Zach Top

Country Radio Station of the Year of the Year:
Country Bear
Hot Country 102
KDKD
KGFY
KKUL Country
KOKX
WOCO

Country Program/Music Director of the Year:
Brian Dougherty
Jay McRae
Larry Kaszynski
Randy Gerrald
Stan Edwards
Steve Stevens
Thomas Barstow

Country Record Label of the Year:
RCA
Stoney Creek
Sony
UMG
WMG

Crossover Artist/Band of the Year:
Jelly Roll
Post Malone
The Grimm

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As 2025 draws to a close, we look back on a year defined by remarkable milestones, ground-breaking tours, and unforgettable chart moments. Across genres, artists pushed boundaries and delivered music that resonated deeply with fans worldwide. It was a year of resilience, creativity, and growth—setting the stage for even greater achievements in 2026.

Looking ahead, anticipation builds for fresh releases, bold collaborations, and the continued rise of both major and independent talent. With streaming, radio, and live performance all playing vital roles, the industry is evolving rapidly. Innovation will remain at the forefront, as artists shape the soundscape and fans embrace diverse musical journeys.

Taylor Swift’s dominance continued throughout 2025, with “Opalite” (Republic) now surging at radio. Her record-breaking world tour captivated millions, reinforcing her status as a global icon. Swift’s ability to reinvent herself while maintaining chart success remains unmatched, and her momentum shows no signs of slowing as she enters another historic year. Sabrina Carpenter also enjoyed a breakthrough, with “When Did You Get Hot?” (Island/Republic) climbing steadily. Her infectious energy and relatable storytelling have made her one of pop’s most exciting voices, reflecting the growing appetite for fresh talent.

Country radio thrived in 2025, led by Luke Combs’ “Days Like These” (SMN/Columbia), Dustin Lynch’s “Easy To Love” (Broken Bow), and newcomer Greyland James with “Water At A Wedding” (Nashville Harbor). These songs highlight the genre’s strength, blending tradition with modern flair and proving country music remains a powerful force on the airwaves.

Preparations are underway for our annual New Music Award Nominations. We invite readers to visit NewMusicAwards.com to view the ballot and cast their votes. This celebration honors both major and independent artists, giving fans a voice in recognizing the music that defined the year while spotlighting the stars of tomorrow.

At New Music Weekly, we continue to provide the “tools of the music trades.” From our online magazine to the STS music tracking service, we deliver resources that empower industry professionals. By charting both major and indie artists, we ensure transparency and recognition across the board, supporting growth and visibility in all corners of the music world.

We extend heartfelt thanks to our readers and subscribers for their continued support. As we enter 2026, we wish everyone success and joy. The independent scene is thriving, momentum is building, and together we celebrate artistry, innovation, and community—ensuring the future of music remains bright and inspiring.

2025 has truly been a banner year for New Music Weekly magazine. Your support has fueled our growth, and we invite you to show your passion by participating in the New Music Award 2026 ballot. Make your voice heard and help honor the artists who defined this past year. From all of us at New Music Weekly, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We look forward to being with you every step of the way in 2026, providing the best news, chart information, and more.