Tate McRae Earns First Grammy Nomination, Despite ‘So Close to What’ Being Shut Out

Canadian singer and dancer Tate McRae received her first Grammy nomination — an unexpected milestone given her latest album’s complete absence from the awards list. The recognition comes for her single “Just Keep Watching” from the film F1, starring Brad Pitt, in the category of Best Dance Pop Recording.

On Friday afternoon, McRae expressed her joy on Instagram Stories, posting:

“Grammy nominated!!!!!! @recordingacademy.”

The track had already earned her two MTV VMA wins in September — for Song of the Summer and Best Editing. At the 2026 Grammy Awards, McRae competes alongside Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco for “Bluest Flame,” Lady Gaga for “Abracadabra,” Zara Larsson for “Midnight Sun,” and PinkPantheress for “Illegal.”

Album ‘So Close to What’ Overlooked

The nomination surprised fans because McRae’s third studio album, So Close to What, was entirely left out. Despite the snub, it has been her most successful record so far, securing her first No. 1 on the Billboard 200 Chart. The album includes singles like “Revolving Door,” “It’s OK I’m OK,” and “Sports Car.”

World Tour and Major Performances

McRae concluded her world tour for the album in Inglewood, California, on Saturday. The project’s promotion included prominent appearances on Saturday Night Live, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and the VMAs.

Ineligible for Best New Artist

Some fans noted her absence from the Best New Artist category. However, McRae was not eligible, as she had already been submitted three times — the maximum number of entries allowed.