Record Of The Year: 

Ava’s Pick: “What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish

A week after being released, “What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Alternative Songs chart. From the Motion Picture movie, “Barbie,” the scene with this song playing caught my attention along with many others and became the most inspiring part of the whole movie. It truly captures Eilish’s music’s vulnerable and introspective side and embodies most women’s feelings of not feeling understood. 

Lindsay’s Pick: “Not Strong Enough” by Boygenius

Boygenius is one of those generation-defining bands we only appreciate after they succeed. With Julien Baker’s emotional vocals, Pheobe Bridgers’ heart-wrenching melodies and Lucy Darcus’ intelligent lyrics, Boygenius is the supergroup. “Not Strong Enough,” with its Sheryl Crow-inspired lyrics and complex but deeply relatable message, deserves the honor of record of the year. 

Album Of The Year: 

Ava’s Pick: “Did You Know That There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd” by Lana Del Ray 

While nothing compares to Lana Del Ray’s old music, “Did You Know That There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd” stands out among the other nominees for her creativity and innovative songwriting. “Let The Light In,” one of the songs off the album, holds a special place in my heart as it sounds similar to “Tomorrow Never Came,” a song she wrote for the album “Lust for Life,” which features the iconic Sean Ono Lennon.

Lindsay’s Pick: “Midnights” by Taylor Swift

Of course, the Talon’s “designated Swiftie” picks “Midnights” for AOTY, but compared to the other nominees, I genuinely believe Swift’s album is the frontrunner in this category. “Midnights” is her epic: it’s the poetic storytelling of “Folklore” and “Evermore,” combined with the pop-beat of “1989” and “Lover,” and the edgy tone of “Reputation” all compiled in a unique alternative, indie-pop album. 

Song Of The Year: 

Ava’s Pick: “A&W” by Jack Antanoff, Lana Del Ray and Sam Dew 

I’m a Lana Del Ray fan, if you haven’t already noticed. This seven-minute song is a pop and folk music mashup that beautifully honors her life and career. It represents a highly vulnerable side to Del Ray as she sways through her emotions from her childhood to being sexualized throughout her career. “A&W” is a compelling, driving song and has my vote for this category. 

Lindsay’s Pick: “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus

While I’m not Cyrus’ No. 1 fan, I love the “Summer Vacation” album. From the artistic silhouette on the cover to the dance-pop style with a country twang, the singer’s album and hit single were the perfect soundtrack for the summer of 2023. Between its record-breaking debut, notorious lore and iconic lyrics, “Flowers” earns my vote. 

Best New Artist: 

Ava’s Pick: Gracie Abrams 

Gracie Abrams may be a “nepo baby” – a term used to describe people famous by association of parents –but she still has quite a showing and deserves Best New Artist. With most of her best hits coming out in just the past two or three years, she has also held a strong fanbase and close relationships with them. With her inspirational lyrics similar to Taylor Swift’s and her soft melodies, I see a shiny award coming her way. 

Lindsay’s Pick: Noah Kahan

I’m calling it now: Noah Kahan is the next big name in music. The emotional lyrics and catchy melodies of his pop-folk style draw attraction from listeners of all genres. I may be biased (he was the second top artist on my Spotify Wrapped and claimed three of my top songs), but I genuinely believe his impact this year has been extraordinary.