Grammy 2026 Producer of the Year Nominees on Being Up for the Award

At the 2026 Grammy Awards, no women will be contenders for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical. This contrasts with the previous year, where Alissia, an R&B producer and musician, was unexpectedly nominated, marking only the ninth time a woman or female team received a nomination in this category. Notably absent this year are Jack Antonoff, who had been nominated for five consecutive years and won in 2022, 2023, and 2024, and Dan Nigro, who competed in 2024 and won in 2025.

Among the 2026 nominees, Cirkut, Dijon, and Sounwave are first-time contenders for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical. They join experienced producers Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys and Blake Mills of Band of Horses. Below, these five nominees share their thoughts on being up for the award on February 1, 2026.

Dan Auerbach

This is your fifth nomination for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical, including a win in 2013. How have you seen this field evolve?

I’m always surprised by the nomination. I feel fortunate to be recognized for doing what I love. Even without the Grammys, I’d still be doing the same work.

What’s your secret to consistent nominations in this category?

It’s hard to pinpoint. I just try to follow my instincts and ensure I don’t obstruct the process.

All your nominated work was released through your label, Easy Eye. How does it feel to see your roster thrive?

I aim to help artists create the music they truly want. It’s a privilege to be trusted with that responsibility. Easy Eye exists to provide that freedom, allowing us to work quickly and instinctively without worrying about trends or industry pressure. Our role is to support the vision and serve the song.

Cirkut

How did you learn about your nomination for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical?

I watched it live from bed! I was in disbelief. There are always moments when you think you might have a chance, but seeing it happen was surreal. I haven’t celebrated formally, but the support from music colleagues, friends, and family has been invaluable.

How does this year’s class of nominees reflect current musical trends?

Each nominee offers a unique style. I’m pleased the Recording Academy acknowledges both established and emerging names across various genres.

Five of your seven nominations are in the album, record, and song of the year categories for your work with Lady Gaga and Rosé with Bruno Mars. How does this reflect your significant 2025?

Gaga had an extraordinary year. I rarely work on full albums, so being involved in 12 of 14 tracks made the AOTY nomination for MAYHEM particularly special. Seeing “APT.” become a phenomenon is fantastic — Rosé and Bruno are superstars who gave the record a unique character. It’s a rare record that resonates with diverse audiences. I’ve heard countless times, “You did that song?! It’s my 5-year-old’s favorite, and now I love it too.”

Both “APT.” and Gaga’s “Abracadabra” are nominated for record and song of the year. What’s the secret to a hit in both categories?

If I knew the secret, I’d replicate it every year.

Dijon

What was your reaction to your first Grammy nominations?

I was asleep on my tour bus and just smiled!

How does this year’s class of nominees reflect current musical trends?

Blake Mills is a friend and very influential, making it feel communal and cool. I also love the beat for “GNX” by Kendrick Lamar, co-produced by Sounwave, so I’m in great company.

Your second nomination is for Album of the Year with Justin Bieber’s SWAG. What’s a favorite memory from working on that album?

It was all about freedom and adventure, with no expectations or judgment, plenty of wine, and everyone involved. I’m really grateful for that time.

How would you celebrate a win on Grammy night?

I’d put my son to bed, then invite friends to my garage for a beer.

Blake Mills

How did you learn about your nomination for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical?

I woke up to congratulatory texts from friends and family but was confused. After realizing the Grammy nominations were being announced, I spent 20 minutes Googling and eventually found out. It was surreal and funny.

This is your third nomination in this category. What would a win mean to you?

The diversity among producers is remarkable, and while we share the title, our practices are vastly different. Each song and album required unique contributions, making it challenging to choose the “best” producer.

You have two simultaneous nominations for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical. How does that reflect your recent work?

I’ve worked daily since I was 18 and feel fortunate to do this for a living. Collaborating with incredible artists keeps me energized, and I aim to stay busy each year.

Sounwave

You have 18 Grammy nominations, but this is your first for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical. Why now, and what would a win mean?

I’ve dedicated over 20 years to my work, and this nomination is deeply meaningful. Winning would prove that staying true to oneself and one’s beliefs can lead to great rewards.

You’ve worked with Kendrick Lamar for years. What’s the secret to your successful partnership?

Trust and authenticity are key. We’ve been in sync since day one, and Kendrick is one of the most genuine people I know. He makes every album exciting.

You’re the only producer nominated for a single project. What does that say about the impact of GNX?

I believe in using our platform to push boundaries and create meaningful work. GNX was our way to influence culture and transcend rap. The world tour’s reactions showed its importance.

This article appears in the December 6, 2025, issue of Billboard.