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Why I Think Tori Kelly Deserved ‘Best New Artist’

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Lasell chapter.

Although the Grammy’s were a few weekends ago, I’m still not over the fact that my girl Tori Kelly didn’t win in the coveted ‘Best New Artist’ category. Maybe I’m biased (not the biggest Meghan Trainor fan), but I have other reasons besides “I just don’t like Meghan Trainor” to think that she was robbed of the title. Here are three:

  1. Tori is actually a new up-and-coming artist – You see, Meghan was nominated for Record of the Year and Song of the Year for “All About That Bass” at the 2015 Grammy Awards. This is the first year Tori has gained widespread attention with the release of “Unbreakable Smile” in 2015 and radio hits such as “Should’ve Been Us” and “Hollow.” This was also her first Grammys.

  2. Tori worked hard to get where she is now – I’m not saying Meghan didn’t, but there were multiple times where Tori was pushed down and she kept pursuing her dream (like the time Simon Cowell called her voice “almost annoying” on American Idol). After she was told “no” on American Idol, she continued to post covers and her own music to YouTube, where she gained recognition for her cover of Frank Ocean’s “Thinkin Bout You.”

  3. Tori Kelly’s music has a unique sound – Unlike Meghan Trainors girly-pop hits that became instant radio repeats (with a side of anti-feminist lyrics), Tori Kelly’s music is lyrically empowering and her songs are perfect to listen to when getting ready, road tripping, and singing along to (even if you can’t hit her angelic high notes). She also has some great collaborations on “Unbreakable Smile,” singing with the likes of Ed Sheeran, LL Cool J, and Big Sean.

All in all, Meghan and Tori are both talented artists but Tori deserved the title of ‘Best New Artist.’ Next year, girl, I’m rooting for you!