From an early age, music has been a profound influence in my life, shaping my ambitions and dreams. Attending the Grammys has long been a goal of mine, and last year, I had the opportunity to cover this prestigious event for Cosmopolitan. However, I had yet to experience the exhilarating lead-up to the ceremony, particularly the Best New Artist party hosted by Spotify.
Since its inception in 2017, the Best New Artist party has become a pivotal platform for honoring nominees and fostering a network of emerging artists, including Doechii and Chappell Roan. Attending this event for the first time, just nights before the Grammys, felt like stepping into a vibrant dream infused with creativity and excitement.
Inside the Best New Artist party
The Best New Artist party has firmly established itself as a must-attend event during Grammys week. In a conversation with Cosmopolitan‘s editor-in-chief, Willa Bennett, Dustee Jenkins, Spotify’s chief public affairs officer, emphasized the cultural importance of the occasion. “This night means a lot to me,” she stated. “We have been observing these talented individuals for quite some time, and they are on the verge of gaining global recognition. Tonight is a celebration of that.”
As I navigated through the expansive venue at The Lot at Formosa, the presence of rising stars was palpable. The atmosphere pulsed with energy as DJs Alex Chapman and Zoe Gitter spun an eclectic mix of nostalgic hits and popular tracks from Spotify’s global charts. Artists like Benson Boone engaged in casual conversations by the churro truck, while Ravyn Lenae made her way through the crowd, and Sienna Spiro observed the stage from afar.
Performances that captivated the audience
The night featured an impressive lineup, marking the first time this year’s Best New Artist nominees—Addison Rae, Sombr, Leon Thomas, The Marías, Lola Young, Olivia Dean, KATSEYE, and Alex Warren—shared the same stage. As performances commenced, the atmosphere grew increasingly intimate, with all eyes on the unfolding magic.
The evening kicked off with Leon Thomas, who captivated the audience with his charismatic presence and smooth R&B melodies from his album, MUTT. Following his performance, Lola Young took the stage for her first appearance after a health scare during a previous concert. “This moment is special for me,” she expressed, showing gratitude to her supporters. The crowd rallied behind her as she performed deeper cuts like “Dealer” and “Post Sex Clarity,” underscoring her growth as an artist.
Memorable moments and standout artists
The enchanting sounds of The Marías transported the audience to a dreamy realm with tracks like “Back to Me” and “Nobody New.” Frontwoman María Zardoya delivered almost hypnotic vocals, captivating even the venue’s staff as they paused to enjoy the moment. Next, Alex Warren enlivened the stage with his hit “Ordinary,” playfully interacting with actor KJ Apa from the crowd, while his wife, Kouvr Annon, cheered him on.
As the evening progressed, the excitement escalated when KATSEYE took the stage to perform tracks like “Gabriela,” “M.I.A,” and “Gnarly.” I had the pleasure of congratulating the parents of rising star Rhea Raj on their talented daughter. It was heartwarming to witness their pride and joy as they watched their children shine.
Anticipation for the closing acts
As the night unfolded, anticipation built, particularly for Sombr, who performed tracks from his debut album, including the highly praised “Undressed.” I had previously shared my admiration for this track, noting its exceptional bridge, and witnessing it live was remarkable. As the night drew to a close, Addison Rae took the stage, showcasing her talent through a series of outfit changes that matched her energetic performance.
Finally, the highlight of the evening arrived with Olivia Dean, whose smooth vocals resonated with the audience as they sang along to her hits. The crowd united in a beautiful moment of synchronization, swaying to “Man I Need,” “So Easy (To Fall in Love),” and “Nice to Each Other.” After a hiatus last year due to devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, Spotify’s Best New Artist party returned with renewed energy, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend ahead.
