2024 Grammys Nominations: As the Grammy nominations approach on November 8, anticipation is building for the Best Rock Album category. Albums from Green Day, Pearl Jam, Blink-182, the Rolling Stones, and Dolly Parton are leading the competition. The category, which debuted in 1995, has had its share of both hits and misses in awarding the best rock records over the years. With these new releases, the 2024 race is shaping up to be a showdown between seasoned veterans and younger bands.

2024 Grammys Nominations

Albums predicted to receive nominations include Green Day’s Saviors, Blink-182’s One More Time, Pearl Jam’s Dark Matter, the Rolling Stones’ Hackney Diamonds, and Dolly Parton’s Rockstar. While all these artists made waves with their latest releases, the Stones stand out as the favorite to win. Many critics believe that Hackney Diamonds defied expectations, offering fresh energy and strong songs like “Angry” and “Bite My Head Off.”

Why the Rolling Stones Might Win

Despite their age and the recent loss of drummer Charlie Watts, the Stones have impressed both fans and critics with their new album. “Andrew Watt brought out the best in them,” said Jason Squires of KFRR Fresno, praising the producer’s role in the album’s success. With only three Grammys to their name, some see a win this year as long overdue recognition. SiriusXM DJ Justin Kade likens it to giving a lifetime achievement award. “This might be their year,” Kade said.

The Competition from Rock’s Best

Green Day, Blink-182, and Pearl Jam have also released impressive albums, though many feel they didn’t surpass their past work. Green Day’s Saviors highlights the band’s clever and consistent artistry, with Kade urging, “Give them their flowers.” Blink-182’s reunion with One More Time not only revitalized the band but also reconnected them with fans. Meanwhile, Pearl Jam’s Dark Matter showcases some of their best recent work, recorded with Andrew Watt shortly after he finished producing for the Stones. However, Dolly Parton’s Rockstar, despite featuring all-star collaborations, seems unlikely to clinch the win. Squires commented that the album felt “a bit too polished” to stand out in this field.