Lana Del Rey is one of the most versatile artists; from pop, to rock, to jazz, to synth-wave, she has shown her incredible vocal and creative range since her debut, self-titled 2010 album. She has nine studio albums, three EPs, 38 singles (including four as a featured artist), 18 promotional singles, and one box set. Yet, she does not have a single Grammy. She has performed at various music festivals and is set to headline Coachella later this year. According to UMG, Del Rey has garnered over 41 million global album sales and over 58 billion streams. Her music videos carry a unique retro vibe to them and are works of art. Yet, she does not have a single Grammy.
The singer-songwriter did not know that you had to submit music to be considered for a Grammy. She took to Instagram, saying “I only learned this year that you have to submit now if you want to be nominated, so even that was out of my wheelhouse, but I did do that.”
“I woke up so very excited about these Grammy nominations, five. And we’re singing on I think two of the other albums that are nominated to with Jon [Batiste] and Taylor [Swift],” she added, “It’s just such a fun day. It’s really just about how excited everybody else is. And everybody calling and getting in touch and saying hi. So, all about the process. It’s just one more exciting thing that’s happening so…genuinely touched.”
I have been listening to Lana Del Rey since her early days, and her evolution is incredible. From Born To Die (2011) to Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd (2023), I have been a massive fan. Her dreamy vocals of love lost, love found, abuse, mental health issues, girlhood, and womanhood are captivating. It feels criminal that she was only nominated for a Grammy this year. After over a decade of dedication to her craft, it was a massive moment to see her finally get the recognition she so rightfully deserves and deserved all along.
Unfortunately, Del Rey lost in every category. Taylor Swift, accepting her thirteenth Grammy, dragged Del Rey up on stage with her. It’s about damn time for someone other than Taylor Swift to win. Del Rey is widely praised for her musical prowess but comes from humble beginnings. Before stardom, she was a waitress in a hotel, singing in bars and restaurants. Many artists that took home Grammys this year list her as an influence.
Lana Del Rey deserves a Grammy, and it is infuriating that an artist as talented as she has not been nominated until 2024. My fingers are crossed for 2025.
