Taylor Swift’s ‘Anti-Hero’ Could Make Pop Solo Performance History

When Taylor Swift released her latest album Midnights it marked a major moment in music. The set effortlessly conquered the charts, becoming one of the top titles of 2022 and it has thus far maintained its position as one of the biggest sellers of 2023 as well. Lead single “Anti-Hero” was also a massive success, opening at No. 1 on the Hot 100 and holding on inside the the top 10 for months.

As the eligibility period for the 2024 Grammy Awards draws to a close, Swift may be on her way to several historic nominations, including a potential nod in the pop field for one of her biggest hits yet.

“Anti-Hero” is a strong contender for Best Pop Solo Performance, a category historically known for its fierce competition. If the chart-topping single secures a spot in this field, which may be less crowded than in recent years, Swift will make Grammy history with the most nominations among all artists—although this depends on who she’s up against.

Currently, Swift has been nominated for Best Pop Solo Performance four times. Her hits “Shake It Off,” “Blank Space,” “You Need To Calm Down,” and “Cardigan” have all been recognized in this category. However, Swift is not the only artist, nor the only woman, to have received four nominations in this category.

Adele, Ariana Grande, and Kelly Clarkson have also been nominated four times for Best Pop Solo Performance. Among them, Clarkson is a potential nominee as well, with several songs from her album Chemistry that could be submitted for consideration. Adele’s emotional tune “I Drink Wine” is also likely to be entered for Grammy consideration, though whether it ends up in the running is unclear.

Surprisingly, despite being one of the most nominated musicians in the history of the Best Pop Solo Performance category, Swift has never won in this particular trophy.

While “Anti-Hero” may not be characterized by the most extraordinary vocal performance of the past year, it’s important to note that this category is not solely based on hitting high notes or delivering powerful belting. Adele’s status as the top winner in this field does suggest, however, that voters appreciate impressive vocal acrobatics, even if it’s not required for a nomination.

While “Anti-Hero” achieved tremendous success, it remains uncertain whether it will finally secure Swift the Grammy win she has been hoping for. It will almost certainly bring her back to this arena once again, reaffirming her prominence in the pop music landscape, but she might be left wanting once again…at least in this one vertical.