Beyoncé vs. Chris Stapleton: As the Grammy nominations approach on November 8, Rolling Stone is previewing 13 categories, predicting who could get nominated and who might take home the award.

Beyoncé vs. Chris Stapleton: Who Will Win?

This year, country music delivered exceptional albums, breaking away from the typical long playlists often labeled as “albums.” Sturgill Simpson embraced a new persona, Johnny Blue Skies, while Kacey Musgraves explored a nature-loving outlook. Lainey Wilson offered honest reflections on her sudden rise to fame, and Chris Stapleton released his most cohesive album since Traveller. Then there’s Beyoncé, who drew on her Texas roots and the Black history of country music for Cowboy Carter. Despite being overlooked by the CMA Awards, it’s expected the Grammys won’t repeat that snub.

Industry Experts Expect Beyoncé’s Nomination

Storme Warren, a long-time radio host at the Big 615, believes Beyoncé will receive the recognition she missed at the CMA Awards. “No matter your opinion of her as a country artist, you can’t deny the success of this album,” he says. Similarly, Rachel Whitney, Head of Editorial at Spotify’s Nashville division, shares her surprise if Cowboy Carter doesn’t land in the Best Country Album category.

Chris Stapleton: The Likely Winner with Higher

Chris Stapleton, who has already won this category three times, has the advantage of consistency and familiarity with voters. His album Higher includes standout tracks like “White Horse,” which won Best Country Song last year, and “Think I’m in Love With You.” Warren praises Stapleton’s work on the album, saying, “What he’s doing as a writer and singer, and his connection with fans and the genre, is remarkable. Higher really shows his growth and evolution.”

The Case for Beyoncé and Cowboy Carter

While Stapleton is a favorite, Cowboy Carter stands as a powerful statement on the influence of Black culture in country music, blending Beyoncé’s personal story with the genre’s history. Rachel Whitney believes the album showcases the past and future of country music in a unique way. “It’s truly who she is,” she says, noting the collaborative effort with notable country songwriters and artists that shaped the album into something both traditional and forward-looking.