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

Tate McRae Earns Her First Grammy Nomination

Singer-dancer Tate McRae has received her first Grammy nomination, but not for her expected work. On Friday morning, McRae was nominated for Best Dance Pop Recording for her song Just Keep Watching, featured in the movie F1, starring Brad Pitt.

Grammy nominated!!!!!! @recordingacademy

Recognition Beyond the Grammy Nomination

The song previously won MTV Video Music Awards for Song of the Summer and Best Editing in September. Tate McRae is nominated for the 2026 Grammy Awards alongside artists such as Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco for Bluest Flame, Lady Gaga for Abracadabra, Zara Larsson for Midnight Sun, and PinkPantheress for Illegal.

Surprise Over Album Being Overlooked

While the nomination for Just Keep Watching was celebrated, it is notable that McRae's third studio album, So Close to What, was completely shut out of the nominations. This album is her most successful to date, achieving her first No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.

About the Album So Close to What

Includes singles such as Revolving Door, It’s OK I’m OK, and Sports Car
Featured performances on major shows like SNL, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and the VMAs

Best New Artist Category Eligibility

Although it might seem like McRae was overlooked for Best New Artist, she was not eligible. She had already been submitted three times for the category, reaching the submission limit.

Author's Summary

Tate McRae earns her first Grammy nomination for a movie single, while her successful third album and potential Best New Artist nod remain unrecognized due to eligibility rules.

The Hollywood Reporter — 2025-11-08