Global girl group KATSEYE has achieved a major milestone, earning its first Grammy nominations. The six-member act is recognized in two categories: Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for their song “Gabriela.” The Recording Academy announced the nominations on Friday morning, highlighting KATSEYE as a standout contender. Formed through a competition hosted by HYBE and Geffen Records, the group has gained global attention within a year. Members called the nominations an “absolute honor” and expressed gratitude toward fans and fellow artists.
Formation and Early Career
KATSEYE was created through the YouTube reality competition Dream Academy, a platform designed to discover new music talent. The group’s journey was further documented in Netflix’s Popstar Academy, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at their formation, rehearsals, and challenges.
Their initial single, “Gnarly”, went viral online, introducing the group to a growing international audience. The follow-up track, “Gabriela”, achieved mainstream success, charting for 11 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and currently sitting at No. 37. These early hits demonstrated the group’s ability to blend viral appeal with commercial viability, paving the way for Grammy recognition.
Grammy Nominations and Competitors
The group is nominated for Best New Artist alongside Olivia Dean, The Marías, and Addison Rae. In addition, “Gabriela” earned KATSEYE a nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, showcasing the track’s crossover appeal in pop music.
The nominations were announced by last year’s Best New Artist winner, Chappell Roan, during the official Recording Academy broadcast. Industry analysts have described KATSEYE as a “surprise contender,” emphasizing their rapid rise in the global music scene despite being a relatively new act.
Reactions from the Group
In statements to The Hollywood Reporter, KATSEYE members expressed shock and appreciation for the recognition. They thanked their fans, known as Eyekons, for continuous support and credited the group’s success to both fan engagement and viral music releases. The members also acknowledged the talent of other nominees, maintaining a professional and respectful tone toward their competition.
Impact on Career and Music Scene
The Grammy nominations mark a turning point for KATSEYE. Recognition by the Recording Academy elevates their profile among industry insiders and audiences alike. Analysts suggest this could result in increased streaming numbers, international touring opportunities, and heightened media coverage. The dual nominations for Best New Artist and Pop Duo/Group Performance underscore the group’s versatility and market appeal, strengthening their position as a major emerging act in pop music.
What’s Next for KATSEYE
Looking ahead, KATSEYE is preparing for the Grammy Awards ceremony, where winners will be revealed. Fans anticipate further releases and performances that capitalize on the momentum of “Gabriela” and their growing catalog. The group’s trajectory suggests continued influence in the global pop market, particularly given their origins from a reality show competition that engaged audiences from the start.
Sources
Recording Academy Official Announcements
The Hollywood Reporter
Billboard Charts
