13 Legendary Music Artists Who Somehow Never Won a Grammy

Winning a Grammy is seen as the pinnacle in the music world, yet many legendary artists have achieved remarkable careers without ever winning one. From chart-topping stars to influential figures who shaped entire genres, these musicians garnered admiration from fans and critics despite missing the industry’s top award. Often, their cultural influence surpasses that of many Grammy winners. Here are 13 legendary artists whose careers demonstrate that lasting success doesn’t depend on winning a trophy.

Björk

Björk is renowned for her eclectic style, experimental sound, and mesmerizing performances that push boundaries. Despite a loyal global following and work that has inspired artists across genres, the Icelandic icon has racked up 15 career nominations without ever winning, making her one of the most nominated artists to go home empty-handed, per Gold Derby.

Dierks Bentley

Dierks Bentley has been a staple of country radio for years, with a string of chart-topping hits and fan-favorite albums. A consistent force at award shows and a beloved live performer, Bentley has piled up 15 Grammy nominations without landing a win, according to Taste of Country. Yet somehow, country music’s golden boy has yet to be recognized with a Grammy win.

Martina McBride

Known for her powerhouse vocals and heartfelt storytelling, Martina McBride is one of country music’s most celebrated artists. With multiple awards and millions of albums sold, it’s surprising that a Grammy remains elusive for her despite 14 nominations dating back to the mid ’90s, as reported by the Recording Academy.

Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj, dubbed the “Queen of Rap,” shattered glass ceilings for women in hip-hop with her hard-hitting lyrics and larger-than-life persona. Despite helping shape a new generation of female rappers, she has yet to win a Grammy, going 0-for-12 since receiving her first nomination in 2011, according to the Recording Academy.

Busta Rhymes

Busta Rhymes stands out with his rapid-fire flow, creative visuals, and energetic performances that have defined hip-hop for decades. A longtime standout in the genre, he was nominated for 12 Grammys between 1997 and 2012, but has never claimed the award, according to IMDb.

Morrissey

Morrissey‘s poignant lyrics and distinctive baritone have made him an icon of indie and alternative music, first with The Smiths and then as a solo artist, per IMDb. He has earned just a single Grammy nomination, which came in 1993 for Your Arsenal in the Best Alternative Music Album category, according to the outlet.

Guns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses redefined hard rock with their rebellious spirit, unforgettable guitar riffs, and worldwide anthems. Their blockbuster debut, Appetite for Destruction, didn’t receive a single Grammy nomination, according to Billboard. They would go on to earn three nominations, but no wins, per the Recording Academy.

Josh Groban

Josh Groban‘s soaring vocals and emotional ballads have earned him devoted fans across genres. From Broadway to pop to classical crossover, Groban’s artistry and range have made him one of today’s biggest vocal talents. His Grammy journey began with a Best Male Pop Vocal Performance nomination in 2005, followed by four additional nominations, yet the award has continued to elude him, per the Recording Academy.

Snoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg‘s laid-back delivery and unmistakable style have made him one of hip-hop’s most enduring figures. With a career that spans decades and countless collaborations, it’s a surprise he still hasn’t earned a Grammy, having racked up 16 nominations without a single win, as reported by Complex.

Kesha

Kesha burst onto the music scene with infectious pop party anthems, quickly establishing herself as a bold and creative force. Her career has been as much about resilience as hits, and it wasn’t until 2018 that she landed her first two Grammy nominations, for “Praying” and the album Rainbow, as reported by NPR.

Depeche Mode

As pioneers of electronic and alternative music, Depeche Mode has shaped the soundscape for generations with their dark, synth-driven style. Their influence on modern pop and electronic artists is immense, and their career longevity is impressive, having earned Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2020 despite never landing a Grammy win, according to Grunge.

Blake Shelton

With a string of number-one country singles and a massive television presence, Blake Shelton is a household name across the country. Yet, a Grammy win has continued to slip through his fingers, with eight nominations throughout his career but zero wins, per the Recording Academy.

Katy Perry

Katy Perry‘s string of radio-dominating pop anthems and colorful stage presence have made her a global superstar. With a rare ability to turn nearly every single into a hit, Perry has collected 13 Grammy nominations since 2009 without ever taking home the trophy, per the Recording Academy. Despite the lack of Grammy recognition, she remains a defining voice in pop music.